This article addresses common issues users may encounter when exporting data from DroneDeploy. Ensure you select the appropriate file format for your third-party software to minimize compatibility issues.
Export email not received
If you requested an export but have not received the email notification:
Check your spam folder: Ensure the email was not filtered incorrectly.
Whitelist the sender: Add
exports@dronedeploy.comto your email whitelist to prevent future blocking.Verify the recipient: Exports are sent only to the email address entered in the export dialog box. If you sent the export to a colleague, you will not automatically receive a copy unless you also added your own email address.
Export fails to process
The most common cause for a failed export is requesting a resolution that exceeds the processing limits. This often occurs with:
JPEG format: Limits on total pixel count in the X or Y dimensions (common in long, narrow maps).
TIFF format: Limits on total pixel count.
Memory limits: The export requires more memory than the exporter allows.
Suggested workarounds:
Lower the resolution: Retry the export with a reduced resolution (e.g., change from 5cm/px to 10cm/px).
Use Tiled export: If you require high resolution, select the Tiled option in the export settings. This splits the map into smaller, manageable files.
Split the map: For extremely large areas, consider reprocessing the map as multiple smaller maps.
If the issue persists, contact support@dronedeploy.com.
Unable to open export file
Not all third-party software supports every file type or size.
Check compatibility: Verify your software supports the selected file format (e.g., High-resolution GeoTIFFs may not open in standard photo viewers like Windows Photo).
File size: If the file is too large for your computer to process, try exporting at a lower resolution or using the Tiled option.
Red "X" on KML files in Google Earth
Google Earth may fail to render very large or high-resolution overlays, displaying a red "X" instead.
Solution: Export the map at a lower resolution (e.g., 50cm/pixel) and try loading it again.
Map looks stretched
DroneDeploy data is georeferenced in WGS84 (EPSG:4326), an Earth-centered datum.
The issue: Distortion on this projection increases further from the equator (at far northern or southern latitudes), making maps appear "squashed" or "stretched."
The solution: The georeferencing is accurate, but if you prefer a visual that matches the in-browser map, select Web Mercator (EPSG:3857) when exporting. Note that Web Mercator is preferred for visualization, while WGS84 is standard for GPS and measurements.
Missing KML files with Orthomosaic
KML files are not generated for every projection type.
Web Mercator (3857): Includes associated KML files.
Other Projections: Do not include KML files for orthomosaic exports.
Browser and request issues
If you are having trouble initiating an export request:
Refresh the page: This helps clear old settings or connection interruptions.
Clear cache: Clear your browser's cached data.
Restart browser: Close and reopen your browser to reset the session.
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