While taking measurements based upon pictures may not be ready for field use yet, the ability to mark up pictures with measurements and annotations using existing cell phone applications is a useful and important tool for the construction professional. After a long day on the job site taking hundreds of pictures, it’s easy to forget exactly why or where a specific picture was taken. The cell phone applications below will not only keep yourself from forgetting details about your photos, but will also help you effectively and clearly communicate to your co-workers and other contractors.
1. Skitch (Android and Apple)
skitch
The very popular Skitch app is the most complete photo markup tool out there, the only issue is that it’s not optimized for the constructions professional. It allows the user to highlight, annotate with text, and draw shapes and arrows. The most glaring omission as far is this list is concerned is the lack of the ability to add dimensions. It also requires an Evernote account to be set up, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as it is a very powerful note taking tool, which is important for professionals in every type of business.
2. Bosch Site Measurement Camera (Android only)
bosch
Tool manufacturer, Bosch created this powerful app with a construction user in mind. It allows easy dimensioning, a large text field, zooms automatically for more accurate measurements, and syncs the pictures you take in the app to your phone’s gallery.
3. Measure & Sketch (Android only)
Measure & Sketch
Measure & Sketch is the simplest app of those on the list, but it does lack a lot of the more positive features that the others have. Most notably, if you make a mistake, the entire markup needs to be deleted, as there is no option to edit.
4. Photo Measures Lite (Android and Apple)
Photo Measures
Photo Measures Lite is the free version of its parent app. Even without paying for the full version, it’s a pretty impressive application. It allows dimensions, a large and editable text field, allows changes to existing markups, and even includes date and time stamping. Lite version does severely limit the amount of pictures you're allowed to edit, however.
What are your favorite apps for annotating and dimensioning pictures? Comment below!
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