How To Do Photogrammetry (July 2019)

This chapter provides a brief history of photogrammetry, and what archaeologists use it for. We’ll also cover what makes a ‘good’ model, the five basic steps involved, and how to get started using nothing but a camera and a laptop. We’ll also provide advice on choosing the right kit if you want to try something a bit more advanced.

Ready to make your first model? Whether the thing you want to model is a 4,000 year-old figurine or a modernist teapot, this chapter will show you how to get the right lighting, take the best photos, and stitch them together to create a beautiful 3D model.

It’s time to step outdoors! This chapter takes you through the process of photogrammetry while you’re exposed to the elements, and trying to create 3D models of trenches, features and small monuments – including the practicalities of using a pole-mounted camera to capture overhead shots.

Ready to take your photogrammetry skills to the next level? This chapter introduces you to the ups and downs of using UAVs (aka ‘drones’) to create 3D models of entire landscapes, plus how to continue your journey into photogrammetry.

The next course after this one will start in 3-4 months. Make sure you’re signed up to our email newsletter to get an alert when registrations open for the the next course.

You don’t need any special equipment to do the course – just a laptop and/or smartphone is enough!

In the course, we give step-by-step instructions on how to create 3D models using two different software packages; Metashape (available for Mac and PC) and Zephyr 3D (PC only).

If you want to try following the instructions for yourself, both software packages have a free trial version which you can download for free – although they do have some restrictions on how many photos you can upload, and what you can save at the end.

There are plenty of other software packages available too. Once you’re familiar with the basic steps involved, know what type of models you’d like to make, and just how technical you’d like to get, you can always find a programme that best suits your needs, and your budget.

A similar approach applies to cameras and other photography equipment. We provide instructions that enable you to try things out and improvise with just the stuff you already have. We also provide instructions and advice on getting more technical. Again, once you’ve done the course, and know what type of models you’d like to make, and just how technical you’d like to get, you can always find equipment that best suits your needs, and your budget.

The answer varies by individual. So far, our participants say it takes them 2-3 hours on average. You may spend longer if you enjoy experimenting when creating your models too!

Yes, you can go back and revisit the course content at any time, and you will always have access to the latest version of the course.

This course has been created by DigVentures, with input from two of archaeology’s pioneering users; Adam Stanford and Chris Casswell.

Chris Casswell is Head of Fieldwork at DigVentures, and has been experimenting with photogrammetry in the field for 10+ years to record artefacts, features, and trenches.

Adam Stanford is Director of Aerial-Cam Ltd. and Hon. Research Fellow at the School of Archaeology, Cardiff University. He is a specialist in aerial photography and photogrammetry, providing professional 3D modeling for sites like Orkney, Stonehenge, and Easter Island.

Yes, if you want one, we’ll send you one! As soon as you complete the course, you can request a certificate it. It will be signed, stamped and dated by a member of the DigVentures team, and posted to you within a few weeks of your request.

The course does not award university credits. The best way to prove your skill to potential employers is simply to create your own portfolio!