8 Best-Selling Photogrammetry Books Millions Love

Discover best-selling Photogrammetry Books written by leading experts such as Talbert Abrams, Paul Wolf, and Yves Egels, offering proven frameworks and authoritative knowledge.

Updated on June 28, 2025
We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page

There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love—especially in a specialized field like photogrammetry, where accuracy and insight matter deeply. Photogrammetry has become essential for civil engineers, surveyors, and GIS professionals, offering tools to extract reliable spatial data from images. These best-selling books have shaped the discipline, providing time-tested methods and frameworks that continue to influence today's mapping and surveying practices.

The authors behind these works, including Talbert Abrams and Paul Wolf, are authorities who have defined standards and pushed innovations in photogrammetry. Their books cover everything from classic aerial surveying techniques to modern digital imaging and computational methods, reflecting decades of expertise and practical application.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific photogrammetry needs might consider creating a personalized Photogrammetry book that combines these validated approaches with your background, goals, and interests for a more customized learning journey.

Best for deep technical mastery
Talbert Abrams is a prominent figure in photogrammetry who significantly shaped surveying standards through his editorial leadership at the American Society of Photogrammetry. His extensive expertise and dedication to refining photogrammetric methods led to the creation of this comprehensive manual, which has guided generations of professionals in mastering aerial surveying and mapping techniques.
Manual of Photogrammetry book cover

by Talbert Abrams··You?

1952·876 pages·Photogrammetry, Surveying, Mapping, Aerial Photography, Stereoscopy

Talbert Abrams, a leading authority in photogrammetry, leverages decades of experience to create a definitive resource that clarifies and organizes the complex techniques of aerial surveying. You’ll find detailed explanations of photogrammetric principles, practical applications, and measurement methodologies that have set industry standards. Chapters delve into topics like stereoscopic analysis, map compilation, and instrumentation, offering you a solid foundation whether you’re a surveyor or engineer. This book suits professionals seeking a deep technical understanding rather than casual readers.

Published by American Society of Photogrammetry
View on Amazon
Best for rigorous surveying techniques
P. G. McCurdy is an expert in photogrammetry with extensive experience in the field. He has authored several influential works in the area of photogrammetry, bringing a deep understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects. Driven by the need to codify and clarify photogrammetric processes, McCurdy compiled this manual to serve as a detailed guide for professionals working with aerial imagery and land measurement. His background ensures that the book offers reliable, technically sound knowledge that has supported practitioners in civil engineering and surveying for decades.
Manuel of Photogrammetry book cover

by P. G. McCurdy, L.A. Woodward··You?

1944·819 pages·Photogrammetry, Surveying, Mapping, Aerial Photography, Geospatial Analysis

What started as P. G. McCurdy's personal challenge to systematize photogrammetric techniques became a foundational reference in the field. Drawing on extensive practical experience, McCurdy and co-author Woodward guide you through the technical principles and applications of photogrammetry with rigorous detail, covering everything from aerial photography to precise measurement methods. You’ll gain insights into the geometry of images and the mathematical frameworks that underpin modern surveying practices, particularly useful for civil engineers and geospatial professionals. While dense, chapters like the analysis of stereoscopic imagery offer concrete skills beneficial for those involved in land mapping or construction planning.

View on Amazon
Best for precise mapping mastery
This personalized AI book about photogrammetry techniques is created after you share your background, skill level, and which photogrammetry topics you want to focus on. You also tell us your specific goals, and the book is crafted to cover exactly what you need to understand and apply. Using AI allows this book to combine proven and popular knowledge with your unique interests, making the learning experience more relevant and efficient for you.
2025·50-300 pages·Photogrammetry, Image Capture, Spatial Data, Mapping Techniques, Surveying Practices

This tailored book explores foundational photogrammetry techniques, focusing on proven practices that match your interests and background. It covers the essential principles and applications of photogrammetry, examining methods from image capture to precise spatial data extraction. The content is crafted to address your specific goals, providing a clear path to mastering photogrammetric processes relevant to your needs. By combining insights validated by millions of readers with your individual learning objectives, this personalized guide ensures an engaging and efficient study experience. With tailored explanations and examples, the book reveals how to effectively apply photogrammetry for accurate mapping and surveying tasks, making complex topics accessible and directly applicable to your projects.

Tailored Guide
Spatial Accuracy
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for foundational photogrammetry learners
K. Schwidefsky’s "An Outline of Photogrammetry" is a classic text that continues to inform the field by laying out the foundational techniques and principles of photogrammetry. Although published in 1959, its detailed approach to aerial photography, geometric analysis, and surveying methods remains valued by those studying the evolution of photogrammetric science. The book addresses the core challenges in measurement and mapping from photographic data, making it a useful resource for civil engineering students and professionals aiming to deepen their understanding of photogrammetric methods and their historical context.
1959·326 pages·Photogrammetry, Surveying, Aerial Photography, Geometric Analysis, Mapping Techniques

What happens when a deep expertise in civil engineering meets photogrammetry? K. Schwidefsky’s "An Outline of Photogrammetry" emerges from a mid-20th-century foundation, offering a detailed exposition of photogrammetric principles and techniques. You’ll gain insights into the technical underpinnings of image-based measurement, geometric interpretations, and aerial survey methods that remain relevant for understanding the roots of modern photogrammetry. This book is suited for engineers, surveyors, and students seeking a solid grounding in photogrammetric fundamentals rather than cutting-edge applications. Its historical lens provides context for how photogrammetry evolved, making it a worthwhile reference for those interested in the discipline’s development and foundational practices.

View on Amazon
Best for classic photogrammetric methods
Francis H. Moffitt’s "Photogrammetry;" stands as a substantial resource in the field, offering a rigorous examination of aerial image measurement and analysis. The book’s detailed presentation of classic photogrammetric techniques has earned it recognition among professionals who appreciate its comprehensive approach to surveying and mapping fundamentals. Its extensive coverage benefits those involved in civil engineering by addressing key technical challenges and providing a solid framework for understanding photogrammetry’s role in topographic and geospatial applications. The book continues to serve as a valuable reference for those seeking to deepen their technical knowledge in this specialized area.
Photogrammetry; book cover

by Francis H. Moffitt·You?

1959·Photogrammetry, Photography, Surveying, Mapping, Image Analysis

After decades of evolution in mapping and surveying, Francis H. Moffitt's "Photogrammetry;" offers a detailed exploration of this specialized field rooted in aerial photography and measurement. Though published in 1959, the book meticulously lays out the principles and techniques that shaped modern photogrammetric practices, providing you with foundational skills in interpreting aerial images, understanding camera calibration, and applying triangulation methods. Its extensive 648-page coverage delves into technical aspects like stereoscopy and image rectification, making it particularly valuable if you're engaged in civil engineering or geospatial analysis. While its vintage may not address today's digital advances, the thorough treatment of classic methodologies benefits those seeking an in-depth historical and technical grounding.

View on Amazon
Best for forestry and environmental applications
Stephen H. Spurr’s Photogrammetry and Photointerpretation stands as a classic reference that integrates aerial imaging techniques with practical forestry applications. Its enduring appeal lies in the thorough treatment of photogrammetric methods alongside a focused section on applying these tools to forest management. This book offers a structured approach to interpreting aerial photographs for natural resource professionals and surveyors who need to assess vegetation and terrain. Its detailed frameworks help solve challenges in mapping and environmental monitoring, making it a valuable resource for those working at the intersection of photogrammetry and forestry.
1960·472 pages·Photogrammetry, Forest Management, Remote Sensing, Image Interpretation, Aerial Photography

What started as a need to bridge aerial imaging with forestry management became Stephen H. Spurr's detailed exploration into photogrammetry and photointerpretation. You’ll gain insights into interpreting aerial photographs and applying these techniques specifically to forestry contexts, including identifying tree species and assessing forest conditions. The book’s inclusion of practical examples on forest application sets it apart for professionals in environmental sciences and natural resource management. If your work intersects with land use or forest inventory, this volume offers foundational knowledge, though it leans more toward technical readers than casual enthusiasts.

View on Amazon
Best for rapid GIS integration
This AI-created book on photogrammetry and GIS integration is tailored to your background and goals. By sharing your experience level and specific interests within GIS and photogrammetry, you receive a book that focuses on exactly the steps you need to take. This personalized approach makes complex workflows more approachable and relevant, ensuring you gain practical skills that match your project needs.
2025·50-300 pages·Photogrammetry, Photogrammetry Basics, GIS Fundamentals, Spatial Data Capture, Image Processing

This tailored book explores the practical integration of photogrammetry within GIS projects, focusing on step-by-step actions designed to fit your unique background and goals. It reveals how photogrammetric techniques can enhance spatial data accuracy and mapping efficiency, aligning with your specific interests and skill level. By focusing on your priorities, it enables a focused learning experience that embraces both foundational concepts and practical applications. The book examines essential GIS mapping workflows enriched by photogrammetry, empowering you to rapidly implement these tools in your projects. This personalized approach ensures the content matches your pace and objectives, making complex processes accessible and actionable.

Tailored Guide
Photogrammetric Integration
3,000+ Books Created
Paul R. Wolf is a renowned expert in photogrammetry and GIS, whose influential work has shaped advancements in photogrammetric techniques. His deep knowledge drove the creation of this book, which reflects decades of experience and addresses the impact of digital imaging and computer technology on photogrammetric mapping. Wolf’s authoritative background offers you a reliable guide to understanding the evolving tools and methods that define modern photogrammetry.
2000·624 pages·Photogrammetry, GIS, Digital Imaging, Image Processing, Satellite Imaging

Paul R. Wolf's extensive expertise in photogrammetry and GIS led to this detailed guide exploring new digital imaging technologies that have reshaped photogrammetric mapping. You gain insights into "Soft-Copy" photogrammetry, digital image processing, and the evolution of satellite imaging systems, which are thoroughly explained across chapters dedicated to modern scanning and computing advances. This book suits anyone involved in mapping or GIS who wants to understand how computational power transforms data acquisition and analysis. While technical, it provides a solid foundation for professionals and students aiming to grasp contemporary photogrammetric methods.

View on Amazon
Best for digital mapping professionals
Yves Egels is a recognized expert in photogrammetry and remote sensing, whose work has significantly shaped the understanding and practical use of these fields. Along with Michel Kasser, he authored this book to provide a thorough text for graduate students and professionals needing a solid scientific foundation in digital photogrammetry and GIS data. Their expertise ensures this book serves as a key reference in geomatics, guiding you through the evolving landscape of aerial photography-based mapping technologies.
Digital Photogrammetry book cover

by Yves Egels, Michel Kasser··You?

2001·376 pages·Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing, Geographic Information Systems, Aerial Photography, Digital Mapping

Yves Egels' extensive expertise in photogrammetry and remote sensing shines through in this detailed exploration of digital photogrammetry techniques. You gain a clear understanding of how aerial photography transforms into precise maps, with chapters delving into the evolving technologies that make this accessible to more users than ever before. This book is particularly helpful if you have a solid scientific background and want to deepen your grasp of photogrammetric methods or need a reliable reference for GIS data generation. While technical, its focus on digital tools and practical applications makes it a useful guide for graduate students and professionals involved in geomatics and surveying.

View on Amazon
Best for computational photogrammetry techniques
Fundamentals of Computational Photogrammetry stands out in the photogrammetry field by focusing on computational techniques that support precise spatial data extraction and analysis. This book has earned recognition among students and professionals for its methodical approach to image processing and 3D reconstruction within civil engineering applications. It offers a structured framework that addresses the challenges of integrating computational algorithms with traditional surveying methods, making it a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their technical skills. Whether you are an aspiring engineer or a geospatial analyst, this work contributes meaningfully to understanding how photogrammetry is enhanced through computation.
2005·254 pages·Photogrammetry, Geospatial Analysis, Image Processing, Algorithm Design, Remote Sensing

SanjibK.Ghosh's work addresses the computational aspects of photogrammetry, a niche yet crucial area in civil engineering. Though specifics on the author's background are sparse, the focus is clearly on equipping you with foundational understanding of how to process and analyze images to extract precise spatial data. You get an introduction to algorithms and methods that underpin modern photogrammetric applications, enabling better decision-making in mapping and surveying contexts. This book suits those invested in geospatial analysis, engineering students, or professionals seeking a solid grounding in computational techniques within photogrammetry.

View on Amazon

Proven Photogrammetry Methods, Personalized

Get popular photogrammetry strategies tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Targeted learning paths
Expert-validated content
Practical application tips

Trusted by thousands of photogrammetry enthusiasts worldwide

Photogrammetry Mastery Blueprint
30-Day GIS Mapping System
Digital Photogrammetry Secrets
Computational Photogrammetry Code

Conclusion

The collection of these eight best-selling photogrammetry books highlights three clear themes: foundational surveying principles, integration with GIS and digital imaging, and the rise of computational techniques enhancing spatial data analysis. If you prefer proven methods rooted in classic theory, starting with "Manual of Photogrammetry" and "An Outline of Photogrammetry" offers a solid base. For those seeking validated modern approaches, combining "Elements of Photogrammetry with Applications in GIS" with "Digital Photogrammetry" provides up-to-date insights.

Each book addresses different facets of photogrammetry, yet together they form a cohesive resource pool recognized across civil engineering and geospatial fields. Alternatively, you can create a personalized Photogrammetry book to combine proven methods with your unique needs.

These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed in mastering complex photogrammetric challenges, making these books enduring resources in the discipline.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "Manual of Photogrammetry" for a deep technical foundation. It covers core principles and methods that will help you grasp the essentials before moving to specialized topics.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Photogrammetry?

Not necessarily. "An Outline of Photogrammetry" offers a solid introduction suitable for beginners, while others like "Digital Photogrammetry" are better for those with some background.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with foundational texts like "Manual of Photogrammetry," then progress to applied topics in GIS and digital methods such as "Elements of Photogrammetry with Applications in GIS."

Do these books assume I already have experience in Photogrammetry?

Many do expect some surveying or mapping knowledge, but "An Outline of Photogrammetry" and "Photogrammetry and Photointerpretation" provide accessible entry points for less experienced readers.

Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?

"Manual of Photogrammetry" and "Photogrammetry;" lean toward theory and standards, while "Photogrammetry and Photointerpretation" and "Digital Photogrammetry" offer practical applications in forestry and GIS contexts.

Can I get content tailored to my specific photogrammetry interests?

Yes! While these expert books are invaluable, you can create a personalized Photogrammetry book to combine proven approaches with your unique goals and background for focused learning.

📚 Love this book list?

Help fellow book lovers discover great books, share this curated list with others!