Our Mapping Process:
The mapping process begins by locating stereo aerial photographs, from which a basemap is drawn. The property is then walked in a careful grid ("fieldchecking") to edit and add detail to the basemap. A computerized map is made from the modified basemap. This is done with specialized mapping software. Finally, the computer version of the map is sent to a specialized printing company.

While much work goes into developing the highly detailed maps we produce, we think you'll find that they are still quite affordable.

Aerial Photographs:
Once we know the area to be mapped, we purchase stereo aerial photos that cover the area. Aerial photos are made with a special camera that produces photos in "stereo pairs."

Base Map:
The stereo pairs are placed in a "stereo plotter." The base map is drawn by hand, using a point of light -- seen by the photogrammetrist -- to trace the features shown by the stereo photographs.

Photo Courtesy Pat Dunlavey

Fieldchecking:
The property is walked thoroughly, adding detail or deleting features that no longer exist. For each square kilometer to be mapped it takes approximately 3-7 days to do the fieldchecking.

Modified Base Map:
The fieldchecking corrections are applied to the base map.

Base map made from stereo pairs

Base map with fieldwork corrections/additions

Computerized Map:
The modified base map is scanned and then traced into the computer using a specialized computer program. Once a map has been computerized, any updates to it are quick and simple.

Completed map, same as above base maps

Printing:
The final version of the computerized map is sent to a special printing company. While maps may be done in black-and-white, most are done in 5 colors, requiring a special printing process. Only a few printing companies are able to produce the detailed maps we make.