Using manual photo documentation for construction is a very ineffective way of monitoring the construction progress, especially in the modern era of technological inventions and advancements. Picture this; you are on a construction site and decide to take a snap of the ongoing progress. You are using manual photo documentation.
What do you think is the outcome? Many photos will not be easily identified since manual photo documentation does not indicate the caption location. That is just one of the few problems encountered when using such an antiquated method of construction documentation.
However, things have been made much simpler and easier, thanks to 360-degree cameras. In that case, the construction photo documentation progress can easily be monitored. An added advantage is that pictures are organized according to location and dates of captions showing a specific time of captions. This article will cover some of the best tips for approaching construction documentation.
These tips can be applied using various methods and tools, such as traditional cameras and the popular Photos apps.
1. Consider a Documentation App
Normally, 360-degree cameras can be paired with a manufacturer’s app or a smartphone. However, for such a case, the images captured are usually stored in the camera disorderly. Therefore, it makes it difficult to identify which photo belongs to which construction site.
However, using a 360-degree construction progress app for the process can greatly help. Some of the benefits of using a dedicated 360-degree construction tracking app for documentation include:
- The pictures are organized according to the time they were taken.
- Pictures are arranged according to specific locations on the floor plan of the project.
2. Choose the Right Type of Camera
Each 360-degree camera has features, and it may be difficult for a first-time buyer to know which type of camera is suitable for a specific job site. There are several factors you need to consider when choosing your 360-degree camera:
Speed Capture
You need to reduce the caption time if you want more daily photos.
Image Quality
It is not your goal to capture blurred images. For this reason, 360-degree cameras are considered to produce images of high quality. But, of course, the quality also varies from one camera to the other.
Compatibility
To ensure you use your camera with other devices, ensure it is compatible. Other factors include price, battery life, low light performance, and ease of use.
The top four most rated 360-degree cameras for documenting the construction progress include:
- Insta360 One X. It is one of the decorated 360-degree cameras for documenting the job site. It has the outstanding image quality and provides detailed captions. The camera is recommended for medium construction sites.
- Ricoh Theta Z1. The camera has good image quality in both dim and bright light. The camera is also easy to use.
- Insta360 Pro 2. One special feature of this camera is that it has an exchangeable battery. Moreover, it has a high image quality suitable for showing the construction progress.
- Ricoh Theta SC2 for business. In low-light instances, the camera provides better-illuminated photos, and in bright light, it provides sharper images.
If you want quality photos for the documentation process, you should know which type of camera to put your money on.
3. Consider a Visualization Software
360-degree photos are distorted without a 360-degree viewing system. 360-degree camera manufacturers offer visualization software that can only view one picture simultaneously. However, a dedicated construction management solution provides a holistic view of the entire construction site with a 360-degree camera.
4. Capture Images like a Pro
For outstanding documentation of the construction progress, you need to capture images that can be considered professional. Using quality cameras is of great help because the images will be of the right quality. However, the right tools will not suffice if they are not in the right hands. Therefore, you have to make sure that you can take the 360-Degree photos accordingly or to have a person who knows how employed.
5. Consider Software Storage
Using a cloud-based solution to back up your photos is very crucial. For instance, if an accident occurs on the construction site and one of the machines is damaged, photos will still be accessible. It is just one of the many advantages of using 360-degree in documenting your construction’s progress. Furthermore, cloud-based arranged and store a large amount of data.
6. Set Schedule to Walk the Jobsite
Before capturing any picture, ensure the area is in order and that you are not violating any regimentations. Another important thing is to focus on the time frame when you will take the photos.
The Bottom Line
To ensure you are familiar with the idea of documenting the job site, you need to understand the importance of 360-degree construction photo documentation. In addition, you can employ the above six tips in documenting the construction’s progress with 360 photography.