What Is an Orthophoto Map?

An orthophoto map is a high-resolution aerial image that’s been geometrically corrected to remove distortion from terrain, camera tilt, and lens angle. Unlike a regular aerial photo, an orthophoto has a uniform scale and shows ground features in their true positions, just like a traditional map.

How Is It Made?

The aircraft is flown in a grid pattern, capturing a series of overlapping, straight-down images. Using photogrammetry, these images are analyzed from multiple angles to calculate depth, correct distortions caused by terrain and perspective, and integrate them together into a seamless, map-accurate image tied to real-world coordinates. These aren’t just images stitched together like a panorama; instead, they are carefully processed to build a three-dimensional understanding of the terrain, ensuring every feature appears in its true location and scale.

Orthophoto maps can provide accurate measurements of distance, area, and volume. They can be overlaid with survey maps, property lines, or GIS data, allowing for enhanced spatial analysis. They also offer up-to-date visuals that are far more detailed than typical satellite imagery.

The benefit of maps

With an orthophoto map it's possible to accurately measure distances such as trench lengths or fence lines, calculate areas like boundaries or site footprints, or estimate volumes for dirt piles or excavation zones.  On our orthophoto map page, use the tools on the left for things like drawing lines for measuring distances, or use the other tools like rectangle, polygon, square, circle, etc. Right click on the map to get GPS coordinates.

An orthophoto map combines the detail of a photo with the accuracy of a map. Captured by drone and processed using photogrammetry, it gives anyone an amazing way to document, measure, and analyze a property with current, high-resolution imagery.  

The Fine Print

Orthophoto maps are a powerful tool and can vary in quality based on conditions, equipment, and processing. The maps we provide are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for certified surveys, engineering plans, or legal documentation. While every effort is made to create maps as accurately as practical, they are not intended to meet the precision required for regulatory or professional use. For any work involving property boundaries, permitting, construction, or other professional use, always consult a licensed surveyor or engineer.