Best Practices for GoPro Manhole Inspections

Following proper recording practices when using GoPro equipment is critical to producing accurate 3D models and flat views. Use the guidelines below to minimize distortion and ensure high-quality results.

Recording Best Practices

Stop Recording Promptly
End the recording shortly after removing the camera from the manhole. Continuing to record while walking away or replacing the lid can introduce distortion in the final model.

Minimize Camera Movement
Keep the camera as steady as possible throughout the inspection. Excessive movement can negatively impact 3D rendering quality.

Capture Defects Clearly
When documenting defects—especially near the top of the manhole—zoom in on the specific area before taking a snapshot. This helps reduce distortion and improves image clarity.

Common Issues and Solutions

Sideways or Distorted 3D Models

If your 3D model appears sideways or skewed, it is typically caused by:

• Recording continuing during lid replacement

• Excessive camera movement after the inspection is complete

• Moving away from the structure while still recording

Warped Images

Some image warping is expected due to the 360° camera format. However, it can be minimized by:

• Zooming in before capturing snapshots

• Maintaining consistent camera positioning during the inspection

Need Additional Help?

If you continue to experience significant distortion after following these best practices, contact Support. In some cases, the inspection may need to be reprocessed to resolve the issue.