RICHPiX - Image Quality Workshop

This workshop focuses on the critical role of high-quality images in achieving successful reality capture outcomes. It delves into the technical aspects of image capture, processing techniques, and best practices for various applications. Photogrammetry, 360 imagery and HDRi, and point cloud colourisation.

Six hours of distilled knowledge, tips and trick  from over 40 years as a photogrammetrist and 3D modeller and Fx professional.

Target Audience: Professionals and enthusiasts in architecture, engineering, construction, surveying, cultural heritage, game development, and anyone utilising reality capture technologies.

Prerequisites: Basic understanding of photography and digital cameras. Familiarity with reality capture concepts is beneficial.

Course Objectives: Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Understand the impact of image quality on reality capture outputs.
• Master camera settings and techniques for optimal image acquisition.
• Identify and resolve common image quality issues.
• Implement strategies for challenging lighting and environments.
• Optimize image processing workflows for efficiency and accuracy.

Course Outline:

Module 1: Image Quality Fundamentals (1.5 hours)

• The Importance of Image Quality:
  • How image quality affects 3D model accuracy, texture resolution, and overall realism.
  • Common issues caused by poor image quality: blurry textures, inaccurate geometry, failed alignments.
  • Impact of high dynamic range, shadows and highlight
  • Modtones impact of model

• Key Image Quality Factors:
  • Resolution, sharpness, dynamic range, noise, distortion, and color accuracy.
  • Understanding image formats (JPEG vs. RAW vs OpenExr v HDR) and their impact on quality.

• Camera Settings for Optimal Quality:
  • Exposure triangle: ISO, aperture, and shutter speed.
  • White balance, focus modes, and image stabilisation.
  • Choosing the right lens and focal length.

Module 2: Mastering Image Acquisition Techniques (1 hour)

• Composition and Framing for Reality Capture:
  • Overlap and coverage requirements for photogrammetry.
  • Capturing nadir and oblique images effectively.
  • Avoiding parallax errors and occlusions.

• Lighting and Environmental Challenges:
  • Dealing with harsh sunlight, shadows, and reflections.  How to work with glass and water.
  • Capturing in low-light conditions and mixed interior lighting.
  • Strategies for challenging environments (e.g., forests, interiors).
• Ground Control Points (GCPs) and Scaling:
  • Using GCPs to improve accuracy and georeferencing.
  • Best practices for GCP placement and measurement.

Module 3: Identifying and Resolving Image Quality Issues (1.5 hours)

• Common Image Problems:
  • Motion blur, out-of-focus images, overexposure, underexposure, noise.
  • Lens distortion, chromatic aberration, vignetting.
• Troubleshooting and Correction Techniques:
  • Using image editing software for basic corrections.
  • Applying lens profiles and distortion correction.
  • Identifying and removing problematic images.

Module 4: Optimizing Image Processing Workflows (1 hour)

• Image Preprocessing:
  • Batch editing and image optimization techniques.
  • Noise reduction and sharpening for improved results.
• Software-Specific Workflow Considerations:
  • Understanding processing parameters and their impact on quality.
  • Optimising settings for different reality capture software.
• Efficient Data Management:
  • Organising image datasets for streamlined processing.
  • Utilising cloud storage and collaborative workflows.

Throughout the workshop,  case studies, and real-world examples will be used to reinforce key concepts and demonstrate the impact of image quality on reality capture projects.