Only 1% ARCHITECTS know these GOOGLE EARTH Tricks
8 Ways to Use Google Earth for Architects
Introduction to Google Earth
- The video introduces eight ways architects can utilize Google Earth, emphasizing its potential as a valuable tool in design workflows.
- Google Earth is free and available for download, making it accessible for both professionals and students.
Measuring Distances and Areas
- Users can measure distances by selecting the ruler option, allowing them to draw lines on the map and see measurements in real-time.
- To measure areas, the polygon tool can be used; users connect points to outline an area while viewing perimeter and area calculations.
Measuring Building Heights
- The height of buildings can be measured using the 3D path option under the ruler tool, providing quick estimates of building heights.
- An alternative method involves checking elevation points at the top of buildings for accurate height readings.
Creating Quick Concept Models
- Architects can create 3D volume models on their sites using the polygon tool, adjusting colors and opacity for visual clarity.
- These models can be exported as images for further editing in software like Photoshop, enhancing presentations with additional elements like sun paths.
Generating Elevation Profiles
- Users can generate elevation profiles by adding paths between two points on a site; this feature displays elevation changes along that line.
- The elevation profile provides data relative to ground level as users pan through it, offering insights into terrain variations.
Integrating SketchUp Models with Google Earth
- SketchUp models can be placed within Google Earth by geolocating them; this process includes importing map images onto models for context alignment.
- After adjustments in SketchUp, users export their model as a Google Earth file which allows seamless integration into the platform.
Creating Master Plans
- Architects can create master plans using high-quality images from Google Earth; ensuring views are oriented correctly without camera tilt is crucial.
- This technique aids in presenting project contexts effectively during discussions or presentations.
Creating Visual Representations of Sites
Using Photoshop for Site Visualization
- Open the image in Photoshop and create new layers. Utilize either the brush tool or pen tool to mark water bodies and roads. Reference a site from Snazzy Maps to trace these features accurately.
- Duplicate the base layer and adjust hue saturation to highlight green areas. Use the Color Picker tool to select green regions, duplicating them onto a new layer for color palette creation.
- Enhance depth by adding inner shadows to road textures and adjusting color saturation for final results.
Creating Axonometric Diagrams with Google Earth
- Navigate to your site on Google Earth, selecting an axonometric view. Export this view as an image for further editing in Photoshop.
- In Photoshop, use the rectangle tool to create a perspective-fitting rectangle around the exported image. Apply solid colors on a new layer as a base.
- Duplicate images and adjust areas for three-dimensional effects; add textures and manipulate colors/saturation for desired outcomes.
Simulating Drone Shots with Google Studio
- Access Google Studio using your Google account, starting a new project from the homepage by selecting quick start templates that facilitate video creation.
- Choose between various camera movement options like zooming into the site or orbiting around it, customizing each template based on selected locations.
- Adjust video length and timeline settings; utilize keyframes for camera movements without needing manual adjustments initially.
- Enable attributes such as time of day or clouds in your video settings, allowing you to create different visual atmospheres before rendering your final product.