Photogrammetry for Divers

From the perspective of diving, photogrammetry takes multiple photos from different vantage points and creates 3D models/environments. It was once a manual process, but we now have access to software which can automate the 'heavy lifting' and allow us to be creative.

This course provides the student with the knowledge to be able to create 3D models of objects and environments. We provide data ranging from images extracted from GoPro videos to high quality DSLR photos taken with strobes to cover the complete range of options.
The main components are as follows:

General Background and Concept

• A quick overview of the history of Photogrammetry with a focus on how it has evolved to it's current state and how it is being used in the professional world outside of diving.

101 Software

• We begin with creating a simple model, doing some minor corrections, and completing the process of creating a Solid Textured model which we will publish. 
• This will involve basic editing of the point clouds and optimising the textures of the final mesh.
• This ensures that we understand the overall workflow before getting into the in-depth areas. 

Diving Process

• We then work through a full process of taking the photos in an underwater environment. There are many options and approaches to this – we use animations to clearly illustrate and articulate the benefits and practicalities of each, depending on the conditions, scale and equipment being used.
• This is supplemented with multiple exercises from real examples to build confidence and reinforce the workflow. 

Resolving Issues

• Now that we have completed some examples of functioning models, we will work through scenarios where photos do not align. 
• There are many methods of approaching this – we will show options for adding points manually (in the pro versions of the software) as well as adding/selecting/masking/grouping photos with ‘chunks’ and other options.

Animation

• As well as uploading the 3D model to Sketchfab to share it with the public, we will also do some initial animation to create videos.
• If time permits, we will show how these can be combined together with external video editing software to produce an overview of the 3D model as an introduction to the 3D Sketchfab experience.

Best Practices, Management & Future Ref

• While project scopes always change, it pays to know the final outcome and to name and store files accordingly.
• Ultimately, there is nearly always a need to reduce the file size of the final model, while maintaining the definition and detail.
• If the project is aesthetic, there is a need to boost the quality of the textures. 
• If it is a research project where a particular site is being monitored over time, then the data structure needs to be clearly defined and adhered to.

The contents of this course are intended to provide the opportunity to get started – we will discuss and showcase some larger projects and discuss how to build towards these.