Reality Capture Services

Reality capture services combine cutting-edge technologies like LiDAR, photogrammetry, and UAV imaging to create precise digital representations of real-world environments.

Whether you’re documenting a renovation site, monitoring construction progress, or creating a digital twin, our reality capture services ensure reliable results — fast.

100+

3D Models Delivered

90%

BIM-Ready Outputs

99.5%

As-Built Accuracy

10+

Output Files Supported

What Are Reality Capture Services?

Reality capture is the process of digitally documenting physical spaces, structures, and terrain using technologies like LiDAR, photogrammetry, 360° imaging, and drone mapping. These tools generate high-resolution point clouds, 3D models, and as-built documentation — delivering measurable, georeferenced datasets for design, engineering, and construction.

Unlike traditional surveying, reality capture enables rapid data collection over large or complex sites with centimeter-level accuracy. It’s essential for creating digital twins, performing clash detection, supporting renovations, and streamlining AEC workflows.

Whether you’re managing a construction site or preserving historic architecture, reality capture delivers a reliable digital foundation to build on.

Technologies We Use

LiDAR Scanning

High-precision laser scanning using UAVs and terrestrial systems to collect millions of geospatial points per second. Ideal for terrain modeling, infrastructure mapping, and dense vegetation areas — with 1–3 cm accuracy.

Photogrammetry

Image-based 3D modeling using high-resolution aerial or ground photography. Creates detailed orthomosaics and textured models — ideal for progress documentation and surface analysis.

Drone Mapping
(UAV Surveys)

Rapid aerial data capture using GPS-enabled drones. Great for covering large or hard-to-reach areas while minimizing time on site.

360° Imaging &
Virtual Tours

Capture immersive 360° panoramas of interiors or construction sites for stakeholder reviews, marketing, or facility documentation.

Scan to CAD/BIM

Transform point cloud data into CAD files or Revit models. Perfect for as-built documentation, renovations, or clash detection workflows.

Point Cloud Processing

Data refinement services: registration, alignment, cleaning, and export to usable formats (.RCP, .LAS, .E57, .XYZ).

Applications of Reality Capture

Reality capture solutions across diverse sectors and use cases

Reality Capture Services

As-Built Documentation

  • Capture existing site conditions with survey-grade 3D scans
  • Create precise, measurable records for renovations and retrofits
  • Replace manual field measurements with complete digital models
  • Verify contractor work with spatially accurate documentation
  • Produce CAD or BIM-ready files from real-world conditions
Reality Capture Services

Digital Twin Creation

  • Generate full-scale digital replicas of buildings, sites, and infrastructure
  • Enable virtual walkthroughs and remote inspections
  • Integrate IoT and facility data into spatial models
  • Support predictive maintenance and asset lifecycle planning
  • Centralize physical and operational data in one digital environment
Reality Capture Services

Construction Progress

  • Perform recurring aerial scans to track project milestones
  • Visualize and document site evolution over time
  • Compare site conditions against plans or previous scans
  • Share visual progress reports with stakeholders
  • Reduce disputes and change orders with verifiable data
Reality Capture Services

Scan-to-BIM Workflows

  • Convert point clouds into Revit or IFC models
  • Integrate existing conditions into design environments
  • Support clash detection and coordination in preconstruction
  • Enable faster handoff between field and design teams
  • Improve accuracy of renovation and retrofit plans
Reality Capture Services

Volumetric &
Surface Analysis

  • Measure stockpile volumes with drone-based 3D models
  • Perform cut/fill calculations using digital elevation data
  • Analyze slope, drainage, and site grading conditions
  • Generate reports for site prep, extraction, or earthworks
  • Monitor surface changes for compliance and reclamation
Reality Capture Services

Asset & Infrastructure
Management

  • Document poles, towers, utilities, and linear assets with 3D data
  • Scan infrastructure for encroachment, damage, or clearance issues
  • Build searchable digital libraries of field assets
  • Visualize infrastructure conditions without site visits
  • Support long-term maintenance with detailed digital records
Topographic Mapping & Site Planning

Topographic Mapping &
Site Planning

  • Create high-resolution terrain models using LiDAR or photogrammetry
  • Generate contour maps and breaklines for grading plans
  • Map large sites quickly and safely with UAVs
  • Develop base layers for planning, zoning, and site layout
  • Produce CAD-ready data for engineers and surveyors
historical

Historic Preservation &
Compliance

  • Digitally preserve historic buildings and landmarks with 3D scans
  • Document structural conditions without invasive inspection
  • Create virtual walkthroughs for archival and public access
  • Support regulatory filings with accurate spatial documentation
  • Ensure project compliance through objective site capture
Reality capture services

Environmental &
Terrain Modeling

  • Capture terrain and hydrology data for environmental assessments
  • Model vegetation, slope, and erosion risks using LiDAR
  • Track environmental change with repeatable drone imagery
  • Map sensitive areas without disturbing the landscape
  • Generate DSMs and orthomosaics for conservation planning

Our Reality Capture Process

We combine advanced technology with a proven workflow to deliver fast, accurate, and usable spatial data.
Here’s how we turn real-world conditions into reliable digital assets.

Project Consultation & Planning

We begin every project by understanding your specific needs and objectives.

  • Discuss accuracy requirements and deliverable specifications
  • Review site conditions, access, and potential challenges
  • Determine optimal flight parameters and sensor configuration
  • Identify any ground control point requirements
  • Provide detailed proposal with timeline and investment

Day 1

Pre-Flight Preparation

Proper planning ensures efficient data capture and optimal results.

  • Obtain FAA airspace authorizations (LAANC/Part 107)
  • Conduct site reconnaissance and safety assessment
  • Establish ground control points if required for maximum accuracy
  • Monitor weather conditions for optimal flight windows
  • Calibrate and test all equipment systems
  • Coordinate with site contacts and stakeholders

Days 1-3

Reality Capture Data Acquisition

Our FAA-certified pilots deploy to capture your data with precision.

  • Execute flight missions according to project plan
  • Real-time data quality monitoring during capture
  • Multiple passes for comprehensive coverage
  • Simultaneous RGB imagery capture for visual context
  • Ground control survey measurements
  • Backup data verification before leaving site

Days 2-4

Data Processing & Analysis

Raw data is transformed into actionable deliverables.

  • Register and align multi-source scans with ground control
  • Clean and filter point clouds for CAD and BIM workflows
  • Generate colorized or intensity-based point clouds
  • Create 3D meshes from LiDAR or photogrammetry
  • Produce orthomosaics, contours, and surface models
  • Extract cross-sections and elevation profiles
  • Run QA checks for horizontal and vertical accuracy

Days 3-10

Delivery & Technical Support

Professional deliverables in formats you can use immediately.

  • Secure file transfer of all data products
  • Coordinate system and format verification
  • Technical documentation and metadata
  • Training on data usage if needed
  • Revision support for specification adjustments
  • Ongoing technical consultation
  • Data archiving for future reference

Day 7+

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of Reality Capture services varies based on project size, site complexity, and the deliverables you need. Simple projects like small-scale 3D scans may start around $2,000–$5,000, while larger, multi-phase reality capture workflows — such as scanning large facilities or infrastructure with 3D laser tools — can range from $10,000 to $50,000+. Factors like actual site conditions, capture method (LiDAR, drone, photogrammetry), and desired output formats (BIM, CAD, point cloud) all impact pricing.

Reality Capture uses technologies like 3D laser scanning, photogrammetry, and UAV mapping to create digital replicas of real-world spaces. It captures actual site conditions and generates data outputs like point clouds, digital twins, orthomosaics, and BIM-ready models. These help project teams improve decision making, reduce rework, and align construction workflows across architecture, engineering, and operations.

3D scanning costs typically start at $1,500–$7,500+ per day depending on the complexity and resolution required. A single room might be scanned affordably, while large infrastructure or architectural projects with advanced deliverables (like BIM or CAD files) cost more. Pricing also depends on access, minimal disruption to site operations, and how much processing is required to deliver accurate, QA-verified data.

A Reality Capture manager oversees the end-to-end process of data acquisition, processing, and delivery. They coordinate with internal resources and external vendors, select the right tools and scanning workflows, manage field teams, and ensure quality assurance standards are met. They also align capture data with project planning goals, keeping stakeholders informed and deliverables on track.

Reality capture services collects high-resolution spatial data including point clouds, digital terrain models (DTMs), orthomosaics, and 3D mesh models. It documents existing conditions with precision and is used to support design plans, digital twins, and building information modeling (BIM) workflows.

No — reality capture is designed for minimal disruption. Mobile scanning devices and drones can be deployed during off-hours or while a site remains active. This allows teams to capture data without interrupting daily operations or construction workflows.

With detailed 3D data and real-world site context, project stakeholders can make faster, more informed decisions. Accurate digital documentation reduces costly rework, supports better collaboration, and improves outcomes during design, planning, and construction.

“Existing conditions” refer to the real-world state of a site, building, or asset at a specific moment in time. Reality capture technology allows you to document these conditions with extreme accuracy using tools like LiDAR, photogrammetry, and mobile devices. Compared to traditional methods, this approach is faster, more accessible, and better suited for clients with specific needs around design, renovation, or planning.

A point cloud is a digital 3D dataset made up of millions of XYZ points that represent the exact shape and position of physical objects or terrain. Generated through laser scanning or photogrammetry, point clouds form the foundation for as-built models, BIM, and detailed planning. Designers and project teams rely on point clouds to ensure consistency, efficiency, and optimal results in construction and documentation workflows.

Capturing data involves using reality capture tools — like drones, 3D laser scanners, or mobile mapping devices — to collect spatial information from the built environment. The type of data collected depends on your project goals, but usually includes geometry, surface textures, and as-built conditions. Compared to traditional methods, data capture via modern reality capture technology offers reduced costs, faster turnaround, and more informed decision making.

Laser scanning uses LiDAR sensors or 3D laser technology to emit light pulses and measure distances between the scanner and surrounding surfaces. This generates precise point clouds used for modeling, inspection, or analysis. The technique reduces rework, saves significant time, and provides high-quality data that supports clients seeking accurate, up-to-date site documentation.

A global network of reality capture experts ensures consistent data quality, regardless of your project location. Whether you’re scanning a building in New York or a pipeline in Texas, leveraging a connected team of professionals helps you scale operations, reduce downtime, and deliver results faster. For multi-site or multi-phase projects, this network improves coordination across project teams and internal resources.

Digital twins are virtual replicas of physical assets — created by capturing data from the real world using 3D scanning, mobile devices, or UAVs. Reality capture technology enables designers and decision makers to interact with a live, evolving model of a space, improving project planning, asset management, and operational efficiency. Digital twins reduce costly errors and make real-time insights accessible to teams globally.

Project teams benefit by gaining instant access to verified spatial data. With accurate as-built conditions and site models, teams can collaborate more effectively, reduce rework, and make informed decisions early. Reality capture services support project stakeholders with consistent deliverables, optimal results, and minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

Project planning ensures that the capture process aligns with client goals, timelines, and specific needs. It includes choosing the right tools, determining access points, and understanding how data will be used — whether for BIM, renovation, or documentation. Strong planning leverages internal resources efficiently and helps reduce costly delays during later phases of design or construction.

With objective, accurate data from 3D laser scans or aerial surveys, decision makers gain a clearer view of project status, risks, and opportunities. This leads to faster approvals, fewer assumptions, and reduced rework. Whether used by designers, engineers, or stakeholders, reality capture empowers more informed decisions across the entire project lifecycle.

3D laser scanning is a non-contact method of capturing high-resolution spatial data using laser-based reality capture tools. It’s ideal for documenting existing conditions, verifying construction accuracy, and creating as-built models. Unlike traditional methods, 3D laser scanning is faster, more efficient, and offers consistent quality — especially when working with complex structures or tight timelines.

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Reality Capture Project?

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