Photogrammetry refers to the science of obtaining physical information about 2D photos. Professionals use drone photogrammetry for creating models and 3D maps as a means in multiple sectors like mining, construction, waste management, and aggregates workflows.

Additionally, drone maps created using high-quality drone equipment, precise flight planning, commercial standard GPS ground controlling points, and commercial standard processing software are approximately accurate to about 2 to 3 cm horizontally and 5 to 6 cm vertically.

Drones collect data very simply by going automatically through the field and flying around the map area while capturing images. The captured images are uploaded into the chosen drone data processing platform for further analysis when they finish the collecting process. 

By using flying drones for photogrammetry, you can make more than $500 a week, and if you choose to do it as a full-time job - flying around will get you six figures annually. However, getting hired by bigger companies can land you more than $3000 daily.

If you are interested in the best drones for photogrammetry, please read the following text.

DJI Phantom 4 Pro ( V2.0)

• Flight time is 30 minutes 
• Camera: owns a 1``CMOS sensor with 20 MP high resolution and a mechanical shutter
• Maximum Transmission Range is up to 6 km
• Portability- 3/5
• This model costs around $1600

DJI Phantom 4 Pro (V2.0) is described as the perfect blend of five critical factors with incredible battery life for up to 30 minutes meaning fewer returning trips. The 20 MP mentioned above sensor won't miss out on the tiniest detail. It comes with an OcuSync 2.0 Transmission System and quick-release propellers, which reduce noise while making the drone more aerodynamic. However, DJI Phantom 4 Pro is not the most portable model, although mobile enough for you to carry it in a backpack for hours.

DJI Phantom 4 RTK

• Flight time is 30 minutes 
• Camera: owns a 1``CMOS sensor with 20 MP high resolution and a mechanical shutter
• Maximum Transmission Range is up to 7 km
• Portability- 3/5
• This model costs around $6200

The DJI Phantom 4 RTK represents a more expensive version of the DJI Phantom 4 Pro with the same camera configuration. The reason why it's more expensive is the RTK module ( real-time kinematic) which can achieve 1cm + 1ppm horizontal and 1.5cm+1ppm vertical accurate data. Its maximum transmission range is up to 7 km.

Yuneec Typhoon H3

• Flight time is 25 minutes 
• Camera: Leica ION L1 PRO 20 MP high resolution and a mechanical shutter
• Maximum Transmission Range is up to 2 km
• Portability- 2/5
• This model costs around $2294

Yuneec's latest model is the Typhoon H3. This so-called hexacopter was designed and built-in collaboration with the known flagship company "Leica." Since this drone is a hexacopter, it's much more stable than quadcopters. However, the Yuneec Typhoon H3 battery and transmission range specifications are pretty low compared to other models on the list. On the other hand, image quality is great. Yuneec Typhon H3 comes with an ST16S remote control.

DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise

• Flight time is 31 minutes 
• Camera: owns a 1``CMOS sensor with 12 MP 1/2.3 high resolution and a mechanical shutter
• Maximum Transmission Range is up to 10 km
• Portability- 4/5
• This model costs around $2995

The DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise is an excellent solution for those not looking for an RTK model, representing a more affordable version. This model has a pretty long battery retaining a flight of 31 minutes. The 12 MP camera offers high-resolution photos. Most features are the same as more advanced and more expensive versions, leaving DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise one of our top choices.

Yuneec Typhoon H Plus

• Flight time is 28 minutes 
• Camera: owns a 1``CMOS Sony C23 with 20 MP high resolution and a mechanical shutter
• Maximum Transmission Range is up to 1.6 km
• Portability- 2/5
• This model costs around $1709

The Yuneec Typhoon H Plus is another great model produced by this company. The worst side of buying it is the very short maximum transmission range of only 1.6 km. However, there are two main reasons for you to buy it, including lower price and its truly superior camera.

The Yuneec Typhoon H Plus comes equipped with SONAR to avoid any possibility of collision.

We recommend getting this model if you are a beginner in photogrammetry.

DJI Inspire 2 + Zenmuse X5S Payloud

• Flight time is 23 to 27 minutes 
• Camera: owns a 4/3``CMOS sensor with 20.8 MP high resolution and a mechanical shutter
• Maximum Transmission Range is up to 7 km
• Portability- 2/5
• This model costs around $5300

The DJI Inspire 2 + Zenmuse X5S Payload is described as the company's flagship (cinematography) drone. We're glad to inform you that this model can fly at the speed of an astonishing 94kph. Additionally, The DJI inspire 2 (+Zenmuse X5S payload) comes with dual batteries, which are very easily swappable without having to power the drone of meaning you can swap batteries and get the drone ready for another round in less than 15 seconds. Furthermore, the DJI Inspire 2 can also be coupled with X5S, X7, and X4S payload, delivering unbelievably detailed images that are always required for creating precise and accurate maps,

Choosing the Right Model

It's important to take into consideration a couple of factors before choosing the right drone model, including your budget, requirements, and knowledge about photogrammetry.

First things first, conduct a budget and explore all available options depending on the purpose you want to use the drone for.

Second, check each model's specifications and make sure they match your requirements and expectations.

And third, match the model with the obtained knowledge ( photogrammetry), meaning that beginners should take a simpler drone for starts.

Also, keep in mind that there is a wide range of drone models and versions available. Check out our DJI NYC store and find the perfect photogrammetry drone.