The Course
The CyArk Virtual Training Course on Terrestrial Photogrammetry is an intensive, hands-on program tailored to equip participants with the practical skills needed to capture and process high-quality terrestrial photogrammetry data. Through two comprehensive weeks, participants will develop a solid understanding of field photography, site scoping, and photogrammetry data capture workflows, equipping them with the skills needed to capture high-quality data essential for creating detailed, high-resolution 3D models from real-world environments.
In the first week, participants will focus on the fundamentals of photography, equipment handling, and techniques for identifying and scoping photogrammetry capture sites. Topics such as proper photo settings, equipment setup, and real-time troubleshooting will be covered, providing a solid foundation in the field of photogrammetry. Participants will engage in exercises and hands-on self-directed practice throughout the week, focusing on larger-scale architectural subjects. Additionally, participants will have access to personalized feedback, which will guide improvement and enhance their skills in photogrammetry image capture.
The second week will dive deeper into advanced photogrammetry techniques, including image capture of small objects, interior spaces, and artifacts. Participants will also work through case studies from CyArk field teams to explore the practical applications of photogrammetry, such as cultural heritage documentation and site preservation. As in Week 1, practical exercises remain critical to advancing skills, focusing on more smaller scale subjects such as artifacts and objects. Participants will again have the opportunity to receive personalized feedback tailored to their work.
By the end of this comprehensive course, participants will master capturing and organizing photogrammetry data with precision and consistency. Designed for professionals and enthusiasts in archaeology, heritage preservation, and related fields, this intensive training course focuses on hands-on practice, personalized feedback, and active participation to ensure proficiency in photogrammetry data capture. While this course centers on the techniques for capturing high-quality data, participants will be well-prepared for subsequent 3D processing. Join us to develop the expertise and confidence to capture better photogrammetry data and elevate your projects to new levels of quality and precision.
Course Objectives
Photography Techniques for Terrestrial Photogrammetry
- Master essential photography principles, equipment setup, and image capture techniques to ensure high-quality photogrammetry data.
Field Scoping and Documentation
- Learn how to identify, scope, and document sites for photogrammetry through practical exercises and real-world case studies.
Data Management and Pre-Processing
- Organize, back up, and manage large datasets effectively to streamline your photogrammetry workflow and ensure data integrity.
Terrestrial Photogrammetry Techniques
- Gain practical skills in capturing data for both outdoor and interior environments, advancing your understanding of large-scale and small-object documentation.
Small-Object Photogrammetry
- Refine your techniques for capturing detailed data from small objects and artifacts, ensuring accuracy and precision in your models.
Real-World Applications and Case Studies
- Explore practical applications of photogrammetry through case studies, including CyArk's artifact capture work, and learn to overcome field challenges.
Consistency and Confidence in Data Capture
- Gain confidence in applying best practices and tools for photogrammetry, ensuring consistent, high-quality data capture across various environments and project types. Learn practical techniques to optimize your workflow, avoid common challenges, and tailor your approach to meet specific project needs.
Instructor Feedback and Skill Refinement
- Receive personalized feedback on your exercises to refine techniques and improve precision, ensuring consistent progress and mastery throughout the course.
Schedule and Format
The CyArk Virtual Training Course on Terrestrial Photogrammetry features a total of 12 hours of live, interactive sessions conducted via Google Meet, supplemented with offline activities and homework assignments. With a maximum of 10 participants, this course offers a personalized learning environment with direct instructor feedback.
Course Dates:
Week 1 - Photography Overview
- Tuesday, January 21, 08:00–10:00 PST
- Thursday, January 23, 08:00–10:00 PST
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Friday, January 24, 08:00–10:00 PST
Week 2 - Photogrammetry Fundamentals & Techniques
- Monday, January 27, 08:00–10:00 PST
- Wednesday, January 29, 08:00–10:00 PST
- Friday, January 31, 08:00–10:00 PST
Requirements
- Participants will need a reliable broadband connection and must be available for all live sessions. A basic understanding of photography is recommended but not required.
- A stable desktop or laptop with a good internet connection is essential.
- A working webcam is required for live sessions. A headset with a microphone is optional, but recommended for best audio quality.
Recommended Camera Equipment
To make the most of this course, we recommend using a camera with manual controls and interchangeable lenses, such as a DSLR or mirrorless camera. Suitable examples include mid-range to professional-level models from major manufacturers, with either crop-sensor or full-frame sensors. Some options that meet these requirements include:
Crop-sensor cameras like those from Nikon (D500, D7500 series), Canon (EOS 80D, 90D series), Sony (Alpha a6400, a6600 series), or Fujifilm (X-T series)
Full-frame cameras like those from Nikon (Z6, Z7 series), Canon (EOS R, R5 series), Sony (Alpha a7, a9 series), or other similar models
Instructor - Rob Kesack
Rob serves CyArk in dual roles as a Technical Trainer and Field Capture Specialist. He is instrumental in developing training materials, leading both in-person and virtual workshops, and supporting on-site reality capture projects by capturing, processing, and optimizing digital data to meet diverse project needs. Rob is dedicated to demystifying reality capture technologies and techniques, helping stakeholders understand their capabilities, and simplifying the field's perceived complexity. He holds a B.A. in Anthropology from Rhode Island College and a Master of Science in Historic Preservation from the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation at Columbia University.
Before joining CyArk, Rob consulted for organizations such as Stantec and Factum Arte. He has presented at conferences hosted by the Association of North American Graduate Programs in Conservation (ANAGPIC) and the Association for Preservation Technology International (APTI). Additionally, he has published work on photogrammetry in the scholarly journal Technology | Architecture + Design.