Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a list of questions we have been asked about our services and about aerial photograph interpretation in general. If you have any questions that aren't covered here, please feel free to fill out the inquiry form, and we will get back to you with an answer.

Index of Questions

    1. Where can I obtain aerial photographs?
    2. Are aerial photographs acceptable as legal exhibits?
    3. What would be the oldest date for which I could find aerial photographs?
    4. Can aerial images be altered to show incorrect information?
    5. What is the smallest ground feature visible on an aerial photograph?
    6. What is stereo viewing?

Q: Where can I obtain aerial photographs?

A: In addition to the commercial sources listed on this site, they can be obtained from the federal government (USDA, USGS, NOAA) and state, county and local government sources. Transportation, Assessors and Planning Departments are the most favorable sources.

Q: Are aerial photographs acceptable as legal exhibits?

A: Yes.

Q: What would be the oldest date for which I could find aerial photographs?

A:The early to mid 1930's.

Q: Can aerial images be altered to show incorrect information?

A:Possibly, but it is not recommended that anyone try it. The original, un-modified negative probably exists in someone's archive.

Q: What is the smallest ground feature visible on an aerial photograph?

A:Visible detail is a function of photograph scale and image quality, however vehicles are visible at a scale of 1" = 1000' and utility poles, fire hydrants and manhole covers should be visible at a scale of 1" = 500'.

Q: What is stereo viewing?

A:This is the ability to use a device called a stereoscope to view two photographs that show the same features taken from two different view points. The result is an apparent three dimensional model.