DroneDeploy Ground allows you to capture 360 walkthroughs, photos, and videos directly from the field using your iOS device. This guide covers how to prepare your hardware and capture high-quality media for your project.
Availability: Who has access?
DroneDeploy Ground App is available on iOS devices (iPhone and iPad).
Capture features are available to all users with a DroneDeploy Ground subscription.
Specific features like Mobile 3D Scan require the Ground Pro add-on.
Prerequisites
Before starting your capture, ensure you have the following:
An iOS device running the latest version of the DroneDeploy Ground App.
For 3D scans, this device needs to be Lidar Capable (most Pro models)
A supported 360 camera if capturing walkthroughs.
A stable internet connection for initial login and final data upload.
How to capture a 360 Walk
Follow these steps to record a continuous 360 walkthrough of your site.
Open an existing project or create a project using the '+' sign in the top right corner.
Choose a Level to capture on.
Choose Capture Media and then choose Walk
Connect your camera. Turn on your 360 camera and connect it to your mobile device via Wi-Fi.
Set your start point. Use the crosshair to mark your current location on the floor plan and tap the red record icon.
Walk the site. Move at a steady pace. Keep Walks to 15-20 minutes for optimal processing.
Finish the Walk. When complete, hold the Hold to End Walk button. Mark your ending location on the map and select Confirm End Point.
You'll see the item enter the Sync List, noted by the message at the top of the screen.
Either continue capturing media, or View Upload List to continue to Uploading. You'll want to disconnect your camera to start your uploads.
Limitations
Capture Length: Walks exceeding 20 minutes may experience processing delays or failures.
Looping Path: Avoid starting and ending a Walk at the same location, as this can cause alignment issues.
How to capture 360 Panos
Follow these steps to capture a panorama:
With your camera connected, set the capture mode selector to Pano.
Move the crosshairs on the map to your exact standing location.
Tap the capture button to take the pano.
Key Features
Instant Context: Capture 360 degrees of imagery without manual stitching.
Manual Uploads: You can upload preprocessed panoramas from other devices, such as GoPro 360 cameras, if they are not directly supported for live capture.
Limitations
File Formats for Desktop Uploads: DroneDeploy does not currently support dual-fisheye panoramas. Please use your camera software to convert these to Equirectangular format before you upload them.
How to capture standard photos and videos
You can also capture individual media pins to highlight specific site conditions from your mobile device's camera.
Navigate to the map or drawing where you want to add media.
Tap the Capture Media button and choose Photo or Video.
Position the crosshair at the exact location of the observation.
Tap the Shutter button to take the photo or start the video.
Add a Field Note if you need to include a description or tag a team member.
Key Features
Automatic Alignment: Media is pinned to your project drawings or GPS coordinates automatically.
X-Ray Mode: Align previous photos with your live camera feed to see behind walls or slabs.
Side-by-Side Comparison: View two different capture dates simultaneously to track progress over time.
FAQs
Q: Does the app work offline?
A: You can capture media offline, but you must have an internet connection to log in and to upload the data post-capture.
Q: What happens if the app crashes during a Walk?
A: If the app closes, your data is typically saved. Relaunch the app to resume the upload process.
Q: Can I capture Ground data, even if I don't have a 360 camera?
A: Yes, you can capture photos and videos from your mobile device's camera.
Q: What happens if the media is not in the right place after capture?
A: Visit our help center for guidance on How to Move Media
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