Oriented imagery footprint does not appear in the correct location when using Omega, Phi, and Kappa fields for oriented imagery dataset

Description

After adding images to an oriented imagery dataset using a CSV with just Omega, Phi, and Kappa (OPK) values for camera information, the oriented imagery footprint does not appear in the correct location. This also happens when using the Matrix field as well.

From the ArcGIS Pro documentation Camera orientation, it seems like this should be enough to ensure accuracy when you then run the Build Oriented Imagery Footprint tool. However, this is not the case and the footprint can show a significant difference from what the data provider intended.

Cause

While the software supports using just those OPK or Matrix fields, there are certain limitations in computing the accurate image footprint with only those criteria. The software requires at least a correct focal length and if possible, correct Horizontal Field of View (HFOV) and Vertical Field of View (VFOV). If those are not provided, the software will apply default/standard values on the backend, which means the footprint can be inaccurate.

The focal length is an essential value for correct image placement in applications such as ArcGIS Pro, as it is the measure of the distance between the capture plane and where light converges in the camera. This varies by camera and affects the field of view of the camera, thus the field of view of the image and how it displays in a map. The HFOV and the VFOV are optional, but can be important supplements to the focal length to support the correct placement, positioning and sizing of the image.

Here is a diagram to demonstrate focal length: Understanding focal length in photography

A combination of Focal Length, HFOV, VFOV, FarDistance, NearDistance, CameraHeight would aid in computing the most accurate footprints. This information should be shared by the data provider. If they're not present, ArcGIS Pro assumes certain standard values but they may not necessarily be 100% correct.

The CameraHeight is the same as the Z value. If the image was captured using some aerial camera, the camera info can be found in the manual and from the mission info. This can also be called cameraZ.

Solution or Workaround

At minimum, include at least a correct focal length to get the footprint closer to your location. To get the most accurate footprint values in your CSV table, use a combination of:

• Focal Length
• HFOV
• VFOV
• FarDistance
• NearDistance
• CameraHeight