10 Best Photogrammetry Courses and Certifications Online

Photogrammetry is a widely-used technique for creating accurate 3D models from photographs. The process involves combining multiple images of an object or scene and using software to extract data points and create a detailed model. As the demand for skilled Photogrammetry professionals continues to grow, many individuals are seeking online courses to learn the necessary skills and techniques. In this article, we will explore some of the best online Photogrammetry courses available to help you enhance your knowledge and expertise in this field.

Here’s a look at the Best Photogrammetry Courses and Certifications Online and what they have to offer for you!

10 Best Photogrammetry Courses and Certifications Online

1. Generate a 3D model from photos using Agisoft PhotoScan by TGA Digital (Udemy) (Our Best Pick)

Course Title: Generate a 3D Model from Photos Using Agisoft PhotoScan

This course is designed to teach individuals how to generate accurate 3D models of real-world objects using photography. Through this course, individuals will gain knowledge on creating high-resolution textures and detailed models with ease using photogrammetry, which involves processing 2D images into 3D models.

The benefit of using this method is that it provides highly accurate representations of real-world objects when it comes to proportions and texture. Additionally, with the right workflow and pipeline, photogrammetry can potentially save individuals much time in comparison to manually modeling and texturing. Several big production companies utilize this method for creating 3D content for these reasons.

This course is ideal for those without experience working with photogrammetry or Agisoft PhotoScan. By the end of the course, individuals will know how to create a 3D model with texture using Agisoft PhotoScan, and the same principles can be applied to other photography-based photogrammetry software. The course also covers retopologizing/decimating your model to fit your end needs.

The only prerequisite for this course is a fairly capable computer running Windows, MacOS, or Linux. Preferably, individuals should also own or have access to a digital camera for their unique projects, but a few series of photos will be provided for learning purposes. Agisoft PhotoScan is available as a trial and demo version for those who do not own the software yet or want to try it out. The demo version can be used for this course, but it cannot export results and therefore cannot be used for the retopology/decimation parts of the course.

Course content includes an introduction, photography for photogrammetry purpose, preprocessing photos (optional), processing photos in Agisoft PhotoScan, an overview of retopology, and conclusion.

2. GIS Certification Course : Geographic Information Systems by National Institute of Building Technology (NIBT) E-Learning (Udemy)

The National Institute of Building Technology (NIBT) offers an online GIS Certification Course that provides essential knowledge on Photogrammetry and GIS. This course is a first step to learn GIS – Geographic Information System. GIS helps users solve complex man-made issues by creating and managing information about specific locations. Geospatial technology evaluates information in terms of location and renders outcomes through high-quality maps that improve the value of the data or information.

The course provides valuable learning material on software like MicroStation, LPS (Leica Photogrammetry Suit), and PRO600, TerraModel. Users can leverage very high detail of output through precise input information from aerial photographs. Course participants will also identify concepts on Stereo Compilation (3D), which serves as a core process for photogrammetry. After successful completion of this course, students will be able to use their skills for MicroStation as Mapping software for Photogrammetry, use their skills for PRO600-PROCart as a Photogrammetry software, compile planimetric features & DTM using 3D environment in LPS, construct Contours, Shaded Surfaces & TIN using TerraModel in Photogrammetry, and demonstrate the workflow followed in Photogrammetry projects.

The course is divided into six modules, namely Module 1, Module 2, Module 3, Module 4, Module 5, and Module 6. Additionally, it includes four practical modules, namely Practical Module 1, Practical Module 2, Practical Module 3, and Practical Module 4.

In summary, the GIS Certification Course by the NIBT is an online course that provides essential knowledge on Photogrammetry and GIS, which helps users manage information about specific locations and solve complex man-made issues. The course covers valuable learning material on software like MicroStation, LPS, and TerraModel, while also identifying concepts on Stereo Compilation (3D).

3. Photogrammetry With Drones: In Mapping Technology by National Institute of Building Technology (NIBT) E-Learning (Udemy)

The National Institute of Building Technology (NIBT) offers an online course titled “Photogrammetry With Drones: In Mapping Technology” which aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to become expert photogrammetrists. Photogrammetry is a technique that involves using measurements from photographs to create a 3D model of an object. The course offers valuable learning material on software applications such as MicroStation, LPS (Leica Photogrammetry Suit), PRO600, and TerraModel.

The course content is designed to help users gain a deep understanding of Stereo Compilation (3D) and its role as a core process for photogrammetry. Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to use MicroStation and PRO600-PROCart as mapping and photogrammetry software respectively. They will also be able to compile planimetric features and DTM using 3D environment in LPS and construct contours, shaded surfaces, and TIN using TerraModel in photogrammetry. Additionally, participants will be able to demonstrate the workflow followed in photogrammetry projects.

The course is divided into five modules and four practical modules. The modules cover different topics such as the basics of photogrammetry, aerial photographs, software applications, Stereo Compilation (3D), and workflows. The practical modules provide hands-on experience in using the software applications and applying the concepts covered in the modules.

Overall, the “Photogrammetry With Drones: In Mapping Technology” course offered by NIBT is a comprehensive online program that equips participants with the knowledge and skills required to become expert photogrammetrists.

4. EN.1.UAV Drones: Introduction to 3D mapping by Enrique Eduardo Toro Lira Quiñones (Udemy)

The EN.1.UAV Drones course is designed to teach individuals how to enhance engineering projects by saving time and money through the use of UAV Drones and Photogrammetry. The course provides animated presentations, stats, parameters, tips, photo and video examples of working with UAV Drones for 3D mapping. It can be completed within a day, with the option to practice with samples during the weekend.

The course covers Photogrammetry, where it can be applied in various industries, the ideal equipment, leading software and UAV platforms, and safety and operational tips. By taking this course, individuals can replace expensive topographers, total station and laser scanner equipment with 1 UAV platform and photogrammetry software suite, saving money and reducing risks to staff.

The most profitable use of UAV is replacing expensive laser scanners and Lidar equipment, which can cost between $60,000 to $150,000. On the other hand, a good small UAV fully autonomous can start at $1200, and photogrammetry software ranges from $0 to $8000 with 1cm or 2cm per pixel precision.

The course is divided into several sections, including an introduction to the business, leading technology, process, NADIR processing examples, exercises, conclusions, and recommendations. It provides a comprehensive overview of how individuals can optimize processes and time for engineering projects through the use of UAV Drones and Photogrammetry.

5. Drone 3D Modeling for Beginners – Low Cost Solutions by Richard L Charpentier (Udemy)

The Drone 3D Modeling for Beginners – Low Cost Solutions course is designed to teach the basics of 3D modeling and mapping with drones without requiring a significant financial investment. The course explores the concept of photogrammetry, which involves using photography to measure distances between objects. Today’s photogrammetry goes beyond measuring distances and is used in various industries to create realistic 3D models of land, businesses, homes, accident scenes, etc.

To create 3D models with UAVs, a drone with a camera, a computer for offloading captured images, access to 3D modeling rendering software, and patience are required. The course covers the basics of creating 3D models with drones and is an introduction to the topic. The class explores several 3D modeling image capture apps for smartphones and tablets, planning a model, and using Map Pilot from Maps Made Easy to plan a mission.

The course includes a practical demonstration of a 19.19-acre modeling mission with Map Pilot and processing the model with Photoscan Standard. Students will learn how to create a small 3D model of a new home with Litchi using only a short orbit of the home. The course also discusses the costs of generating models and compares the outputs from three different platforms: Drone Deploy, Maps Made Easy, and Photoscan Standard.

Upon completing the course, students will have a basic understanding of how to plan for Drone 3D models, use 3D image capture apps, process their models with various services and software, and share their final renders. The course does not cover high-end commercial 3D modeling but provides a foundation for students to pursue their interests in 3D modeling further.

The course aims to help drone pilots learn about 3D modeling with drones without breaking the bank.

6. Create 3D model from photos using Reality Capture by Hambardzum Vardanyan (Udemy)

Course Title: Creating 3D Models from Photos Using Reality Capture

Course Instructors: Hambardzum Vardanyan

Course Short Description: This course teaches how to use photogrammetry to create photorealistic 3D models with texture, using the Reality Capture program.

Course Long Description: In today’s film industry, photorealism is a crucial aspect of production. Game companies are in constant competition to create the most realistic games, and creating photorealistic 3D models can be a challenging task. However, photogrammetry offers an opportunity to create high-quality 3D photoscans, models, and textures. By the end of this course, participants will be able to create 3D models and textures from still photos.

Course Content and Sections:

1. Introduction
2. Shooting and Photo Processing
3. Creating 3D Models
4. Uploading 3D Models to Sketchfab
5. Conclusion

The course is divided into five sections. The introduction provides an overview of the course, followed by a section on shooting and photo processing. The third section teaches participants how to create 3D models using the Reality Capture program. The fourth section focuses on uploading 3D models to Sketchfab. Finally, the course concludes with a summary of the concepts covered.

7. Drone Photogrammetric Image Processing (Beginner to Expert) by Leo Stalin (Udemy)

The Drone Photogrammetric Image Processing course is designed for beginners to experts who want to learn about UAV/Drone image processing for GIS data product generation through Agisoft Metashape. The course covers end-to-end UAV/Drone image processing steps, including image preprocessing/post-processing and accuracy assessment. The course also includes theoretical content that provides a better understanding of Ortho, DSM, DTM, Point Cloud, Contour, and 3D mesh generation. In addition, the course covers stereo satellite image processing, panorama generation, volume calculation, ortho color correction, stereo setup file creation, RTK and PPK image processing, and Network-based Parallel Image Processing for Massive image processing.

The course is divided into four sections, starting with a brief Course Preview. The Basic of Remote Sensing and GIS section covers the fundamental concepts of remote sensing and GIS. The UAV/Drone Image Pre-processing section explains the preprocessing steps for UAV/drone images before starting the image processing. The UAV/Drone Image Processing for Geospatial Data Generation section covers the main topic of the course, which is the UAV/drone image processing to generate geospatial data products.

Overall, the course is aimed at providing the most advanced UAV/Drone Image Processing knowledge to the learners and the geospatial professional/community. The course is suitable for those who want to learn image processing techniques using Agisoft Metashape and how to generate geospatial data products. With the detailed explanations of theoretical concepts and practical examples, learners can gain a better understanding of UAV/drone image processing techniques. The course is structured in a way that enables learners to gain knowledge progressively from basic to advanced topics.

8. Fotogrametría Digital con Drones by Saúl Noboa (Udemy)

This course, titled “Digital Photogrammetry with Drones: Focused on Information Processing,” provides a series of videos for learning professional techniques in photogrammetric surveys using drones and specialized software for image processing and generating final products. The course covers software such as Agisoft Metashape, Pix4DMapper, QGIS, ArcGIS, Google Earth, Civil 3D, and other web and mobile applications. The focus is on information processing, and the course includes practical exercises that allow students to analyze different scenarios and to configure various photogrammetric processing software and geographic information systems.

The course begins with basic notions of cartography, which are essential for proper photogrammetric processing. Students will learn about the scope of this technology and its difference from traditional topographic surveys. The course also covers the characteristics and applications of unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as the safety measures and initial configurations to consider before flying the equipment.

The course covers the fundamentals of photogrammetry and its complete workflow, which includes planning in the office, fieldwork, and post-processing of information. While practical experience with drone operations and control points is essential, the course provides basic information on their use. Students will also learn how to choose the necessary equipment according to their needs.

The course includes practical exercises that enable students to analyze how this methodology behaves in various scenarios, and the correct configuration of the different photogrammetric processing software and geographic information systems to be used. The final products include orthomosaics, digital surface and terrain models, 3D models, contour lines, and their presentation on maps. The course is ideal for those interested in entering the world of photogrammetry and topography, complementing traditional workflows with new methodologies and tools, or generating added value to products.

9. Rilievo fotogrammetrico del costruito con drone o fotocamera by Mangione Giuseppe (Udemy)

The course titled “Rilievo fotogrammetrico del costruito con drone o fotocamera” is taught by Mangione Giuseppe and focuses on the use of photogrammetry to obtain precise measurements from simple photographs taken with a camera or drone. The short description of the course highlights the ability to achieve accurate measurements of facades, buildings in 2D and 3D, monuments, and statues. The long description emphasizes the practical actions necessary to obtain the best results in a timely manner. Pinomangione, an expert in the field, will provide insights and guidance to become a competent technician in photogrammetry.

The course content is divided into various sections, starting with an introduction to the learning method. Followed by techniques for photogrammetric surveying of built structures, the “Elements of disturbance” to avoid, equipment required for photogrammetry, and how photogrammetric restitution works. The course also includes practical exercises using the VeRa software for photogrammetry from TOPOPROGRAM.

In conclusion, this course provides a comprehensive introduction to photogrammetry and its practical applications. The course instructor, Mangione Giuseppe, is a passionate expert in the field, providing useful insights and practical guidance to students. The course content is structured for easy comprehension, and practical exercises using VeRa software are included for hands-on practice. The course promises to be a fulfilling learning experience for anyone interested in photogrammetry.

10. Recap & Regard3D for Reality Capture and 3D scanning by Golgi Alvarez, AulaGEO Academy (Udemy)

The “Recap & Regard3D for Reality Capture and 3D scanning” course offered by AulaGEO Academy, instructed by Golgi Alvarez, teaches the creation, cleaning, and exporting of 3D models and point cloud files using Autodesk Recap and open-source software. The course covers various topics, such as creating 3D models using images, generating point clouds, creating surfaces in Civil3D from point clouds, and sharing models on the internet using SketchFab. The course includes materials and examples to replicate practices.

The course covers a wide range of topics, such as creating digital models with open-source software, managing models with Regard3D, ContextCapture, AutoDesk Recap, and Civil3D, and creating digital models using AutoDesk Recap and Bentley ContextCapture. Lectures are provided to create digital models with Regard3D, clean point clouds with Meshlab, create surfaces in AutoDesk Civil3D, and create digital models from images with Bentley ContextCapture. Lectures are also included on selecting images, creating projects, downloading and visualizing projects, cleaning and trimming models, and displaying, opening, thematizing, and exporting point clouds with AutoDesk Recap.

The course provides a neutral tone and technical writing style. The content is broken into smaller paragraphs to improve readability. The course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of creating, cleaning, and exporting 3D models and point cloud files using Autodesk Recap and open-source software.