Embracing Aerial Perspective: A Personal Journey Through Views and Techniques

Aerial perspective is a captivating technique that enhances our understanding of the environment from a unique angle. As an undergraduate geoscience student, I was introduced to stereo aerial photographs, which provided a detailed and intimate view of topography and geology on the ground. Over the years, this fascination has led me to explore various methods of aerial imaging, from traditional aerial photography to modern drone technology.

The Early Days: Geoscience and Aerial Photography

My journey with aerial perspective began when I was exposed to stereo aerial photographs during my undergraduate studies in geoscience. By viewing these photographs through a pair of magnifying glasses, the user gains an immersive sense of the terrain below. Later in my career, I utilized stereo photographs in photogrammetry to map the precise contours of open pit mine walls. Photogrammetry, a technique that uses photographs to produce precise measurements, is particularly useful for accurate topographic mapping.

In addition, I have spent numerous hours exploring sites on Google Earth for geology class field trips. This allowed me to identify outcrops, mark trails, and plan routes for the upcoming field expeditions. My love for aerial perspective is such that I always choose the window seat on airplane flights to get a panoramic view of the landscape below.

A Personal Connection: Painting with Aerial Perspective

One of my earliest experiences with aerial perspective was when I first rode in a plane at the age of 18 or 19. I was mesmerized by the familiar fields and streets transforming into patchwork quilts as the plane climbed higher. Decades before the advent of GPS, Google Maps, and Google Earth, I purchased aerial photographs of my neighborhood from the county assessor's office. I used these images over a 20-year period to paint a commentary on the rapid urbanization and transformation of prime farm land.

Modern Aerial Techniques: Drone Photography

While I have never ventured into aerial drone photography, I appreciate the fun and accessibility it offers. Modern drones such as the Mavic 2 can perform 'dolly zoom' techniques, which move the drone while it zooms, to exaggerate perspective effects. This technique can be quite fascinating and creative, especially for visual storytelling.

For those looking to create accurate maps using drones, the orthogonal correction technique is crucial. This process involves taking hundreds of photos per acre from a straight-down angle, applying orthogonal correction to remove perspective effects, and then stitching the images together. This results in a map that appears dead-accurate with objects appearing as if they are directly beneath the lens. Companies like DroneDeploy excel in providing these services at reasonable rates.

Conclusion

Aerial perspective is not just a technical tool for geoscientists, but a passion that captures the essence of the environment from unique vantage points. Whether it is through traditional aerial photographs, modern digital mapping, or the creative use of drones, the ability to see the world from above continues to captivate me. From my days in the classroom to my current fascination with drone technology, aerial perspective remains a powerful tool for both scientific accuracy and artistic expression.