Which method uses low-level aerial photography to produce maps of topographic features?

Aerial photogrammetry is a method that involves capturing low-level aerial photographs to create accurate maps of topographic features. This technique uses overlapping photographs taken from aircraft or drones, allowing for the detailed analysis and interpretation of geographical areas. The images are processed to create three-dimensional representations of the terrain, making it an effective tool for topographic mapping, land surveying, and various applications in geographic information systems (GIS).

The process leverages the principles of triangulation and image scaling to extract elevation data and create contour lines, which represent the shape and features of the earth's surface. This is particularly useful in areas where traditional surveying methods might be cumbersome or less efficient.

While other methods such as satellite imaging and drone surveying also relate to the gathering of geographical data, they utilize different technologies or scales of operation. Digital terrain mapping involves more advanced computational techniques but relies on data sources like laser scans or existing elevation datasets rather than just aerial photography. Aerial photogrammetry stands out due to its focus on low-altitude images that capture detailed topographic features.