Top Drone Image Processing Software to Elevate Your Aerial Shots

Drones have changed the game for capturing breathtaking aerial photos and videos, but raw footage often needs a little polish to truly shine. Whether you’re a hobbyist snapping scenic landscapes or a pro working on a commercial project, drone image processing software can help you turn good shots into great ones. These tools let you enhance colors, stitch panoramas, or even create 3D models with ease. Let’s dive into the best software options that make editing your drone captures simple, fun, and professional-grade, no matter your skill level.

1. FlyPix AI

FlyPix AI provides a platform for processing and analyzing geospatial data from drone and satellite imagery. The software uses artificial intelligence to detect objects, monitor changes, and identify anomalies in images, supporting industries like construction, agriculture, and government. Users can train custom AI models without coding expertise, using a no-code interface to annotate and analyze data tied to geographic coordinates. The platform supports various data sources, including RGB and multispectral imagery, and offers tools for creating orthomosaics and conducting detailed geospatial analysis.

The software includes an interactive sandbox for testing object detection and model training. It processes large datasets and generates actionable insights for tasks such as infrastructure maintenance and environmental monitoring. FlyPix AI offers scalable solutions with features like analytics dashboards, vector layer exports, and map-sharing capabilities, depending on the pricing tier. The platform is designed to handle complex scenes and provides options for API access and team collaboration in higher-tier plans.

Pricing Plans

• Basic: Free, includes 3GB storage and 10 credits for one user.
• Starter: €50 per month per user, includes 10GB storage and 50 credits.
• Standard: €500 per month for two users, includes 120GB storage and 600 credits.
• Professional: €2000 per month for five users, includes 600GB storage and 3000 credits.
• Annual billing offers a 10% discount.

Pros

• No-code interface for creating and training AI models.
• Supports multiple geospatial data sources, including multispectral imagery.
• Scalable plans for different team sizes and project needs.

Cons

• Advanced features like API access and map publishing require higher-tier plans.
• Limited support response times in lower-tier plans.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: flypix.ai
• Address: Robert-Bosch-Str. 7, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
• Contact Email: info@flypix.ai
• Phone Number: +49 6151 2776497
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/flypix-ai

2. DJI Terra

DJI Terra is a software tool for 3D modeling and mapping, using photogrammetry to process drone imagery. It creates 2D orthophotos, digital surface models, and 3D reconstructions from visible light and LiDAR data, primarily for use with DJI Enterprise drones. The software supports industries such as surveying, construction, and agriculture, with tools for real-time mapping, mission planning, and data analysis. It processes multispectral data for tasks like crop health monitoring.

The interface allows users to plan and execute drone missions, with options for customizing flight paths and analyzing outputs. DJI Terra supports integration with other DJI products and exports data in formats compatible with GIS tools. The software requires high-performance hardware for efficient processing and offers different licensing options based on industry needs, such as agriculture or electricity management.

Pricing Plans

• Pricing varies by application (e.g., agriculture, electricity, cluster computing). Specific costs are not listed publicly; users must contact DJI for detailed pricing information.

Pros

• Integrates with DJI drones for streamlined workflows.
• Processes various data types, including LiDAR and multispectral imagery.
• Supports real-time mapping and mission planning.

Cons

• Requires high-performance hardware for optimal operation.
• Pricing details are not publicly available, requiring direct inquiry.

Contact and Social Media Information:

• Website: www.dji.com
• E-mail: inform@dji.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/DJI
• Twitter: x.com/djiglobal
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/DJIglobal
• Address: DJI Sky City,No.55 Xianyuan Road,Nanshan District,Shenzhen, China
• Phone: +86 (0)755 26656677

3. Propeller Aero

The Propeller Aero processes drone data for industries like construction, mining, and waste management, creating 2D maps, 3D models, and orthophotos. It supports data capture from various drone types and integrates with AeroPoints, GPS-enabled ground control points, for accurate georeferencing. The platform provides tools for measuring volumes, tracking earthwork progress, and conducting site checks, with data processing handled by geospatial experts.

Users upload drone imagery to the cloud-based platform, which generates high-resolution terrain models and point clouds. The software includes features for collaboration and data sharing, with outputs verified for accuracy..

Pricing Plans

• Pricing is tailored to project needs and not publicly listed; users must contact Propeller for a custom quote.
• AeroPoints 10-Pack: €6,500, includes 10 AeroPoints 2, chargers, stencils, carry bags, and a 12-month Corrections Network subscription.
• Propeller Corrections Network subscription (without platform license): $600 USD per year after the first year.

Pros

• Integrates with AeroPoints for precise ground control.
• Processes data into high-resolution maps and models.
• Offers tailored pricing based on project requirements.

Cons

• Pricing details require direct inquiry.
• AeroPoints subscription adds ongoing costs after the first year.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: www.propelleraero.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/propelleraero
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/propeller_aero
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/propeller-aero

4. DroneDeploy

DroneDeploy is a cloud-based platform that processes data from drones, and ground robots to create 2D maps, 3D models, and orthomosaics. It supports industries like construction, agriculture, and energy with tools for automated flight planning, data analysis, and site documentation. The software includes features for measuring volumes, slopes, distances, and elevations, as well as AI-driven analytics for object detection and plant health assessment using algorithms like NDVI. Users can capture and analyze aerial and ground data for tasks such as stockpile analysis and facade inspections.

The platform integrates with tools like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, and Esri for data export and collaboration. It offers a mobile app for planning and executing flights, with real-time mapping available on iOS devices. DroneDeploy supports radiometric thermal data processing and provides options for overlaying design surfaces and sharing maps with external stakeholders. The software allows unlimited ground control point processing for accurate georeferencing.

Pricing Plans

• Free Trial: 14 days, includes 2D and 3D map creation with limited functionality.
• Individual Professionals (Flight & Analysis): $349 per month (billed annually) or $499 per month (billed monthly), includes 1 admin user, 3,000 image uploads per map, email and chat support, aerial data processing.
• Advanced (Flight & Analysis): Custom pricing, includes 10,000 image uploads per map, cut/fill analysis, vertical facade inspection, radiometric thermal processing, unlimited ground control point mapping, email and chat support.
• Projects (Reality Capture & Analysis): Custom pricing, includes unlimited members, integrations with Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, and PlanGrid, team management, aerial or ground capture processing, email, chat, and call support.
• Enterprise (Scale Across Organization): Custom pricing, includes all Projects features, API access, SSO, drone operations management, and document storage integrations.

Pros

• Processes data from drones, 360 cameras, and ground robots.
• Integrates with GIS and CAD software for data export.
• Supports real-time mapping and AI-driven analytics.

Cons

• Most pricing details require contacting sales for a quote.
• Ground capture processing not included in Individual and Advanced plans.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: www.dronedeploy.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/Dronedeploy
• Twitter: x.com/DroneDeploy
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/dronedeploy
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/dronedeploy

5. ArcGIS Drone2Map (Esri)

ArcGIS Drone2Map is a desktop application within Esri’s ArcGIS suite for processing drone imagery into geospatial products like orthomosaics, digital surface models, and 3D models. It supports industries such as urban planning, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure management by converting aerial images into GIS-compatible data. The software handles photogrammetry and LiDAR data, enabling users to create 2D maps and 3D reconstructions for spatial analysis. It integrates with ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Enterprise for data sharing and advanced analytics.

The application provides tools for managing large imagery datasets and cataloging outputs for use in GIS workflows. Users can measure distances, areas, and volumes directly within the software, with options to export data in formats like LAS and SHP. ArcGIS Drone2Map requires a compatible ArcGIS license and supports automated workflows for processing drone imagery. The software is designed for users familiar with GIS systems and requires installation on a desktop environment.

The platform supports various drone types and camera systems, including RGB and multispectral sensors. It offers features for georeferencing and aligning imagery with ground control points. ArcGIS Drone2Map is part of a broader ecosystem, allowing users to combine drone data with other geospatial datasets for comprehensive analysis. Pricing depends on the ArcGIS licensing model, which varies by user type and organization size.

Pricing Plans

• Pricing is not publicly listed; costs depend on ArcGIS user type licenses (e.g., Creator, GIS Professional) and require contacting Esri for a quote.

Pros

• Integrates with ArcGIS for advanced geospatial analysis.
• Processes photogrammetry and LiDAR data.
• Supports cataloging and management of large imagery datasets.

Cons

• Pricing requires direct inquiry with Esri.
• Requires familiarity with GIS systems and desktop installation.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: www.esri.com
• Phone: 909-793-2853
• Address: 380 New York St Redlands, CA 92373-8100 United States
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/esrigram
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/esri
• Twitter: x.com/Esri
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/esrigis

6. SimActive Correlator3D

SimActive Correlator3D is a photogrammetry software for processing drone, aircraft, and satellite imagery into orthomosaics, point clouds, and 3D models. It supports industries like surveying, mining, and agriculture with tools for generating geospatial data from large image datasets. The software uses GPU acceleration for processing and includes automated workflows for aerial triangulation and digital surface model creation. It handles various image resolutions, up to 100 megapixels for medium format and unlimited for large format and satellite data.

The platform supports data from multiple aerial platforms and exports outputs in formats like LAS, DXF, and TIFF for use in GIS and CAD systems. Users can process unlimited images with features for orthorectification, mosaicking, and 3D reconstruction. The software offers a data processing service as an alternative to local processing. Technical support and software updates are included for one year with all licenses, with options for floating licenses.

Correlator3D is designed for users handling large-scale mapping projects, with tools for precise georeferencing and terrain analysis. The software requires installation on a local system with sufficient hardware capabilities. Licensing options cater to different platforms and image resolutions, with pricing varying based on subscription type or permanent purchase.

Pricing Plans

• Monthly Subscription: €295 per month, unlimited images, up to 61 megapixels, includes all modules and tools, no technical support or updates.
• Yearly Subscription: €2,950 per year, unlimited images, up to 61 megapixels, includes all modules and tools, no technical support or updates.
• Permanent License: €5,900 one-time, unlimited images, up to 61 megapixels, includes all modules, one year of technical support and updates.
• Permanent Floating License: €6,400 one-time, unlimited images, up to 61 megapixels, includes all modules, one year of technical support and updates.
• Medium Format License: Pricing not listed; supports up to 100 megapixels, includes all modules, one year of technical support and updates.
• Large Format License: Pricing not listed; supports unlimited resolution, includes all modules, one year of technical support and updates.
• Satellite License: Pricing not listed; supports unlimited resolution, includes all modules, one year of technical support and updates.

Pros

• Processes unlimited images across multiple platforms.
• Uses GPU acceleration for faster processing.
• Offers a data processing service option.

Cons

• Pricing for medium format, large format, and satellite licenses requires direct inquiry.
• Technical support and updates limited to one year for permanent licenses.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: www.simactive.com
• Email: contact@simactive.com
• Phone: +1 514 288-2666
• Address: 465 St-Jean, Suite 701 Montreal, Quebec H2Y 2R6 Canada
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/simactive
• Twitter: x.com/simactiveinc
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/simactive.inc
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/SimActive

7. Skycatch

Skycatch provides a platform for drone-based data capture, processing, and analysis, focusing on industries like mining, construction, and energy. The software includes tools for creating 3D models, orthomosaics, and point clouds from drone imagery, with features for automated flight planning, data visualization, and analytics. Components like SkyPlan, SkyFleet, DataHub, and SkySight support mission orchestration, fleet management, data centralization, and automated data extraction using computer vision and machine learning. The platform supports integration with DJI drones and exports data in formats like TIFF, LAS, and OBJ for use in software such as AutoCAD and ArcGIS.

The system uses a high-precision package that processes data with or without ground control points, achieving up to 5cm accuracy. SkyFleet manages compliance and fleet operations with customizable checklists and maintenance tracking. DataHub allows users to measure, markup, and share data with controlled access for team collaboration. SkySight applies AI to remove unwanted objects from point clouds and reproject data into local coordinate systems.

Skycatch offers training for pilots and teams to standardize workflows, with options for on-premises and cloud-based processing. The EdgeServer enables in-field processing without internet connectivity, suitable for remote sites. The platform supports highwall mapping and stockpile analysis, with automated tools for generating reports and validating as-built conditions against design files.

Pricing Plans

• Pro Plan: Includes unlimited data processing, 10 user accounts, ground control point marking; pricing not publicly listed, requires contacting Skycatch.
• High Precision Package: Includes unlimited user accounts, 5cm accuracy without ground control points; pricing not publicly listed, requires contacting Skycatch.

Pros

• Supports both on-premises and cloud-based processing.
• Integrates with DJI drones and major geospatial software.
• Provides automated flight planning and compliance management.

Cons

• Pricing details require direct inquiry.
• Advanced features may require training for effective use.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: skycatch.com
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/skycatch

8. PIX4D

PIX4D offers a suite of photogrammetry software for processing drone imagery into 2D maps, 3D models, and orthomosaics, supporting industries like surveying, agriculture, and public safety. Products include PIX4Dmapper for general mapping, PIX4Dmatic for large-scale projects, PIX4Dsurvey for CAD integration, PIX4Dreact for rapid 2D mapping, and PIX4Dfields for agricultural analysis. The software processes RGB, multispectral, and LiDAR data, with tools for measurements, annotations, and data export in formats like TIFF and SHP.

Each product targets specific use cases: PIX4Dmapper creates survey-grade outputs, PIX4Dmatic handles corridor and large-scale mapping, PIX4Dsurvey merges point clouds for CAD deliverables, PIX4Dreact supports quick situational awareness, and PIX4Dfields generates crop health maps. The platform supports cloud and desktop processing, with options to combine photogrammetry and LiDAR data. Users can manage projects through PIX4Dcloud for sharing and collaboration.

The software integrates with various drone types and offers training through online courses and documentation. PIX4D provides a community platform for user support and sharing best practices. Subscriptions can be monthly or yearly, with a 15-day free trial available for testing core features like map and model creation.

Pricing Plans

• PIX4Dmapper: €241.67 per month (yearly subscription) or €290 per month (monthly), includes survey-grade mapping and 3D modeling.
• PIX4Dmatic: €138.61 per month (yearly) or €166.67 per month (monthly), supports large-scale and LiDAR processing.
• PIX4Dsurvey: €97.22 per month (yearly) or €116.67 per month (monthly), for CAD-ready deliverables.
• PIX4Dreact: €37.50 per month (yearly) or €45 per month (monthly), for rapid 2D mapping.
• PIX4Dfields: €65.28 per month (yearly) or €78.33 per month (monthly), for agricultural mapping.
• Free Trial: 15 days, includes core mapping and modeling features, no credit card required.

Pros

• Offers multiple products for specific industry needs.
• Supports both cloud and desktop processing.
• Integrates photogrammetry and LiDAR data.

Cons

• Higher-tier plans required for advanced features like LiDAR processing.
• Monthly subscriptions are more expensive than yearly.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: www.pix4d.com
• Address: Route de Renens 24 1008 Prilly, Switzerland
• Phone: +41 21 552 05 90
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/Pix4D
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/pix4d
• X (Twitter): x.com/pix4d
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/pix4d_official

9. OpenDroneMap

OpenDroneMap is an open-source toolkit for processing drone imagery into maps, point clouds, 3D models, and digital elevation models. It includes components like ODM for command-line processing, WebODM for a user-friendly web interface, NodeODM for API access, and ClusterODM for scalable processing. The software supports industries such as agriculture and surveying, using libraries like OpenSfM and OpenMVS to generate geospatial outputs from RGB images.

WebODM provides visualization and analysis tools, allowing users to store and manage data through a browser-based interface. The toolkit processes unlimited images but requires local installation via Docker on Windows or MacOS systems. It does not include flight planning, requiring users to use separate software for drone mission setup. Community support is available through forums and documentation.

The software is maintained by contributors and relies on open-source libraries for photogrammetry tasks. Users can extend functionality with tools like FIELDimageR for agricultural analysis or Find-GCP for marker detection. OpenDroneMap is designed for users comfortable with technical setups, offering a cost-free alternative for processing drone data.

Pricing Plans

• Free, open-source software with no subscription costs.

Pros

• No cost for usage, suitable for small projects.
• Generates various outputs like orthomosaics and 3D models.
• Community-driven with regular updates.

Cons

• Requires technical setup via Docker.
• No built-in flight planning capabilities.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: opendronemap.org
• Email: info@opendronemap.org

10. Agisoft 

Agisoft is a stand-alone software for photogrammetric processing of digital images, generating 3D spatial data for GIS applications, cultural heritage documentation, and visual effects production. It supports industries like archaeology, surveying, and mapping by creating 3D models, orthomosaics, point clouds, and digital elevation models from drone, aerial, or ground-based imagery. The software processes images from various cameras, including frame and fisheye lenses, with automated workflows for image alignment and model reconstruction.

The platform includes tools for georeferencing, measuring distances, areas, and volumes, and supports coded and non-coded target detection for ground control points. It offers export options in formats like GeoTIFF, LAS, and DXF for compatibility with GIS and CAD systems. Agisoft uses GPU acceleration and network processing to handle large datasets, with a cloud-based extension, Agisoft Cloud, for site inspection and data annotation. The software is available in Standard and Professional editions, with the latter supporting advanced features like LiDAR data processing and geoid models.

Users can access a free viewer for 3D data visualization and a texture de-lighter tool for removing shadows from model textures. A 30-day trial license provides full functionality, while a demo mode restricts export and save functions. The software supports Windows, macOS, and Linux, with educational licenses available for accredited institutions. Community support is provided through forums, tutorials, and a knowledge base.

Pricing Plans

• Standard Edition: $179 one-time, includes basic photogrammetry tools for image-based modeling.
• Professional Edition: $3,499 one-time, includes advanced features like LiDAR support, geoid models, and network processing.
• Educational Licenses: Pricing not publicly listed; available for accredited institutions, requires contacting sales@agisoft.com for a quote.
• Floating Licenses: Pricing not publicly listed; available for Professional Edition, requires contacting sales@agisoft.com for a quote.
• Agisoft Cloud: Subscription-based, pricing not publicly listed; cloud processing charged per minute of compute node operation, requires Professional Edition license.

Pros

• Processes various image types and supports LiDAR data.
• Offers cloud and network processing for large datasets.
• Exports data in multiple GIS-compatible formats.

Cons

• Pricing for educational and floating licenses requires direct inquiry.
• Advanced features limited to Professional Edition.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: www.agisoft.com
• Address: 64 Kirochnaya street,St. Petersburg, Russia, 191015
• Phone: +7 (812) 621-33-41
• Email: info@agisoft.com

Conclusion

Drone image processing software has become a key tool for turning raw aerial footage into usable data for industries like construction, agriculture, and surveying. These platforms offer a range of features, from creating 2D maps and 3D models to using AI for object detection and geospatial analysis. Whether you’re stitching together orthomosaics, measuring volumes, or analyzing crop health, there’s a tool designed to handle the specific needs of your project, with options for both beginners and professionals.

The variety of software available means you can pick one that matches your budget and technical skills, whether it’s a free open-source option or a paid platform with advanced capabilities. Many of these tools integrate with popular drones and export data in formats that work with GIS and CAD systems, making them versatile for different workflows. As drone technology keeps improving, these software solutions will likely evolve to offer even more precise and automated ways to process imagery.

Choosing the right tool depends on your project’s scope, whether you need cloud-based processing, real-time mapping, or support for LiDAR data. By understanding what each software offers, you can streamline your workflow and get the most out of your drone data. Keeping up with updates and new features in these tools will help ensure your projects stay efficient and accurate.