What is a Gaussian Splat? A Gaussian Splat is a photorealistic 3D scene reconstructed from images. Unlike a mesh, it preserves lighting, transparency, and complex material properties, making it feel like you are "walking through" a real photo.
What is photogrammetry? Photogrammetry is the science of making measurements from photographs. It produces 3D meshes, point clouds, and orthomosaic maps that are geometrically accurate and measurable.
Strengths of Gaussian Splat - **Visual Realism**: Unmatched photorealistic quality. - **Immersive**: Best for stakeholder engagement and marketing. - **Speed**: Often faster to process into a viewable scene than a complex high-res mesh.
Strengths of photogrammetry - **Measurable**: Ideal for volume calculations, distances, and survey work. - **Structured**: Can be exported to CAD, BIM, and GIS software. - **Established**: A proven workflow for engineering and construction.
Visualisation vs Measurement If your goal is to show a client a site and make them "feel" the space, choose a Gaussian Splat. If your goal is to measure the site or integrate it into a design workflow, choose photogrammetry.
Commercial use cases - **Gaussian Splat**: Property marketing, public consultation, heritage records. - **Photogrammetry**: Topographical surveys, earthworks monitoring, as-built records.
Practical Considerations
— Drone operations are subject to airspace, weather, site access, permissions, nearby people and property, and operational safety requirements.
— Gaussian Splats are visualisation-first assets and should not be treated as survey-grade by default.
Related Services
Recommended Bundle
The Immersive Digital Capture Pack provides a structured route from site capture to usable commercial deliverables.
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