For high-quality Vertical Face Imagery (VFI), we recommend using a combination of 2D (nadir) and 3D (oblique) flight paths to capture both top-down and side views of terrain features. While the additional 3D flight is not required, this approach enhances the accuracy of mapping steep slopes, stockpiles, and excavation sites in the Propeller Platform.
2D (nadir) flight – standard top-down survey
A 2D flight captures overhead (nadir) images, essential for generating a standard digital elevation model (DEM), orthophotos, and terrain surfaces.
Flight planning for 2D capture:
- Camera Angle: 90° (downward-facing)
- Best For: Large-area mapping, stockpile measurement, and terrain analysis
3D (oblique) flight – vertical face capture
A 3D flight incorporates oblique (angled) images, which improve vertical surface detail and highwall accuracy. This type of flight is necessary when mapping steep slopes, retaining walls, or excavation areas that are not fully visible from a top-down perspective.
Flight planning for 3D capture:
- Camera Angle: 45°–70° (angled to capture vertical surfaces)
- Best For: Highwall mapping, cliff faces, trench analysis, and construction site monitoring
| How to Plan a 3D (Oblique Mission) with DJI Pilot 2 |
| How to Plan a 3D Photogrammetry Mission in GS RTK: Double Grid |
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How to Plan a 3D Photogrammetry Mission in GS RTK: Multi-oriented |
Uploading vertical face imagery (VFI) to Propeller
Once both 2D nadir and 3D oblique images are captured, follow these steps to upload your data to the Propeller Platform.
Click the UPLOAD button and choose Surveys.
Under PROCESSING select Photogrammetry.
Follow the prompts to upload your data. For more detailed instructions, please review our Knowledge Base articles on uploading survey data.
When configuring outputs during the data upload process, make sure to toggle on Generate Vertical Face Imagery.
How to view vertical face imagery
If you're using vertical face imagery, please note that this data will become available after your dataset has been released. We’ve structured it this way to ensure your surveys are delivered as quickly as possible, rather than delaying the entire release to process vertical face data.
If you opted to create Vertical Face Imagery for your dataset when uploading your survey data, you can turn it on in the Survey Explorer.
Benefits of using vertical face imagery
- Improved Vertical Accuracy: Better representation of highwalls, slopes, and trenches.
- More Detailed 3D Models: Enhanced visibility of terrain features compared to nadir-only data.
- Accurate Volume Calculations: More precise cut/fill and material estimates for construction and mining.
- Seamless Data Integration: 2D and 3D datasets combined into a single Propeller workflow.
By following these best practices, you can ensure high-quality vertical face imagery that enhances terrain analysis and project insights in Propeller.
I still can't do it!
We wrote these articles to equip you with everything you need to get the job done on your own, but we understand that sometimes this isn't sufficient.
If you're stuck, you can connect with our support team by clicking the support button on the top right corner of your user portal.
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