According to Pictometry, the company now supplying Zillow with imaging software:
Pictometry is the world leader in digital, oblique aerial imaging. Our revolutionary, visual information systems are helping homeland security, public safety agencies, and first responders save time and lives. By using our patented image capture process governments improve operational efficiencies, reduce expenses, and better manage community growth. For private businesses, Pictometry improves efficiencies and decision making processes through the use of visual data.
Translation: Cool picture angles
The website claims patent protection for its system, which is quite impressive. Over 80% of Pictometry’s images are oblique (taken from angles) so that features can be easily seen in their entirety. Views are from 3-12 different directions. The photographs are crystal clear. The system even allows for measurements. Sure to be widely adopted in the Real Estate Industry and become the standard.
The system was developed in 1996 by Steve Schultz.
