Photographic Survey Research Articles

Evaluation of the Territorial Potentials for the Practice of Birdwatching Tourism in the Carrizal-Chone Water Corridor (Ecuador)

The main objective of this paper is to study the territory and environmental resources to identify the potential for the development of birdwatching tourism in the Carrizal-Chone water corridor, located in the province of Manabí, Pacific Coast region (Ecuador). To this end, the environmental and social characteristics of the territory were analyzed with the support of a literature review, fieldwork, direct observation techniques and a series of interviews with local stakeholders. An inventory of the most representative birdlife species was also carried out to subsequently systematize the information in a sustained registration matrix, using a series of tools such as bird inventory sheets, binoculars, Global Positioning System equipment, and photographic surveys. Through the final evaluation of the results, 126 bird species and 37 families have been identified; it has been possible to verify that 70% of the managers are familiar with birdwatching tourism and, in addition, there are natural and cultural tourist services and attractions with significant ecotourism potential.

Elite-led Cultural Projects Manifesting Periodic Changes: Geoffrey Bawa Case Studies in Postcolonial Sri Lanka

It is often believed that the so-called ‘cultural projects’ are the most ideal form of political, economic and socio-cultural manifestation of a given society, at a given time. These are commonly referred to as ‘periodic changes’. In postcolonial Sri Lanka, it is often believed that cultural projects have been used to convey underlying messages to its masses by their patrons. Geoffrey Bawa – considered the most important architect of the nation who was responsible for its ‘national architectural style’ – completed a number of them in his career. It is often acknowledged that Bawa’s cultural projects themselves were instrumental indeed in making of the country’s aforementioned national style. On the other hand, the unmistakable role played by the governing/political elite (as patrons) behind the implementation of such projects is also noteworthy. Moreover, it is often said that the architecture of such cultural projects implemented by Bawa were associated closely with elite culture, but that of the masses they were meant for.In this light, the study narrates theories on elitism, and establishes positions of elite/masses in society respectively. Next, it assesses different levels of cultures, and then, their pertaining building design traditions respectively. In this process, the relationship between elite ‘high culture’ and ‘grand design tradition’ is also ascertained. Employing a qualitative research methodology, the study takes up three case studies by Geoffrey Bawa. The selected almost-parallel cultural projects with elite patronage are commonly viewed as the most instrumental from his portfolio for making the nation’s flagship architectural style by the 1980s. In terms of empirical work, to collect information, the study relies upon drawings, photographic surveys, and especially, literature. The gaps in literature are countered via secondary in-depth interviews based on semi-structured questionnaires, borrowed from literature. The selected architectural attributes (i.e. location selection/layouts as well as form constituents and architectural features/details) from each case study are then analyzed to determine their underlying design tradition/s respectively. Finally, the underlying reasons (i.e. periodic changes) behind their implementation are interpreted in a phenomenological viewpoint to draw conclusions.

Graffiti and Other Evidence of Bulgarian Pilgrimage to Jerusalem in the Ottoman Period: A Photographic Survey

Graffiti and Other Evidence of Bulgarian Pilgrimage to Jerusalem in the Ottoman Period: A Photographic Survey

Assembleia de Abrantes Headquarters Building by Raul Lino

The Assembleia de Abrantes building, designed in 1923 and intended as the headquarters of a recreational and cultural club, was one of the first and most relevant projects of Raul Lino (1879-1974) in that city. The building was classified in 2014. This paper proposes the study and interpretation of its main architectural and construction features, in order to understand whether there is a correlation between the Casa Portuguesa programme advocated by Raul Lino and the programme of this building designed to house a local club. The methodology that guided this study focused on the analysis of primary and secondary sources (drawings, written architectural documentation, correspondence between the client and the architect, books and other written publications), photographic and geometric surveys and their graphic recording. Existing architectural documents were analysed. The study was also based on Lino’s theoretical reflections on the function and materiality of Portuguese dwellings, published between 1918 and 1933. It can be concluded that there is a correlation between the Casa Portuguesa programme and that of this building, relating to the internal organization of spaces and construction systems. This work enabled the identification and aggregation of project documents dispersed across two documentary funds. The results obtained contribute to the documentation of preliminary studies for future construction work on the Assembleia de Abrantes Headquarters building. This work aims to make an additional contribution to the interpretation and understanding of Raul Lino's architectural work, focusing on the construction perspective.

Photo survey estimates of annual recruitment in eastern North American sea duck populations

AbstractSea duck (tribe mergini) populations have experienced significant declines in recent years, though underlying causes are poorly understood. Information on population demographic parameters may provide insight for wildlife managers seeking to maintain sustainable harvest. However, population monitoring capacity for sea ducks is limited relative to other waterfowl species because of their remote breeding distribution. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service organizes a Parts Collection Survey (PCS), which estimates recruitment in sea duck populations using age ratios (juveniles/adult), though estimates are biased because harvest vulnerability differs between age cohorts. We used a photo survey to calculate estimates of annual recruitment for long‐tailed duck (Clangula hyemalis), black scoter (Melanitta americana), surf scoter (M. perspicillata), and white‐winged scoter (M. deglandi; hereafter sea ducks) populations in eastern North America. Our team of surveyors collected photos of flighted sea ducks from shore and by boat in 11 states and 1 province from 15 October–15 December annually in 2019–2022. We classified photographed birds according to age and sex and calculated juvenile proportions of each species using a Bayesian binomial model. To compare photo survey estimates with PCS estimates, we used a paired t‐test organized by year. We found strong evidence that PCS estimates of juvenile proportions were greater than photo survey estimates for 3 sea duck species, indicating a consistent positive bias in PCS driven by harvest vulnerability. We also derived novel estimates of juvenile harvest vulnerability using the mean difference between within‐year estimates. Our work demonstrated the photo survey methodology produced annual recruitment estimates for 4 poorly monitored waterfowl populations with greater sample sizes and reduced systematic biases relative to existing methods; we recommend managers continue to adopt this approach in future years with additional consideration given for spatial representation and refinement of image classification procedures for long‐tailed duck estimates.

Methodology for Visual Quality Estimation of Aerial and Satellite Images

Abstract. The most widely used remote sensing data are photographic survey systems mounted on aircraft and spacecraft.The problem of remote sensing data quality control arises when evaluating the survey sensor’s functionality as a part of validation tests and during topographic surveys as a part of technical check activities. The problem of shortcomings and, sometimes, complete normative regulation absence of main concepts and unified approaches to the methodology of aerial and satellite images quality estimation is raised in the paper. To develop a methodology for visual quality estimation, a number of basic tasks have been formulated and proposed. The main stages description of a proposed methodology are given. The operation principle flowchart of visual quality estimation is presented. The developed methodology makes it possible to estimate the aerial and satellite images visual quality based on quantitative indicators in automatic mode.

Comparing species richness and abundance of bumble bees between urban and natural areas using a photographic survey approach

Bumble bees are essential pollinators that provide critical ecosystem services yet, studies are documenting global species declines while recognizing those declines may be understated due to insufficient baseline data. This study investigates bumble bee species richness and abundance across urban and natural sites in Prince Edward Island, Canada, focusing on Charlottetown (urban) and Prince Edward Island National Park (natural). We conducted fieldwork in August and September 2019 using a non-invasive photographic survey technique. We used published keys and sought feedback from citizen science platforms like iNaturalist and Bumble Bee Watch to verify species identification. Our results revealed nine bumble bee species, with Bombus impatiens being the most abundant and Bombus perplexus the rarest. Species richness was higher in natural sites, while urban sites demonstrated moderate levels of bumble bee diversity. Additionally, our findings suggest that sites containing a mix of natural and human-cultivated plant types, predominantly found in our urban study sites, may support higher diversity and evenness levels than those of homogenized plant types (natural or human-cultivated). This research illustrates the practicality of photographic surveys to document the species richness and diversity of bumble bees while avoiding disturbance to populations in urban and natural habitats of Prince Edward Island.

Structural meshes from photographic and laser campaigns: a contribution on retopology-based pipelines

This contribution proposes workflows that allow the transition from photographic and laser surveys to point clouds and geometric meshes designed for structural analysis. The process is complex and, even today, is typically handled using uncontrolled methods. These methods are often unregulated, relying on the transfer of data across multiple software tools. Such unsupervised workflows frequently jeopardize the accuracy and reliability of the final outcomes. Two experimental tests, a slab of concrete and a small-scale frame structure of steel, are reported in this paper to show the provided pipelines and check the relevant performances through state-of-the-art software. The proposed comparison between the pipelines serves to highlight key considerations for effectively managing the transformation to develop an accurate digital twin of the specified structure. Retopologization and interoperability with BIM environments are also discussed.

Three Parameters Impact the Perception of Smile Asymmetry in Patients with Facial Paralysis.

Background: The ability to smile is impaired in patients with facial palsy, and objective parameters assessing smile symmetry to guide treatment are not well elucidated. Objective: This study seeks to identify objective facial measurements that relate smile recognition, perception of smile asymmetry, and perceived emotions from photographs of individuals with asymmetrical smiles compared with control photographs of individuals without smile asymmetry as measured by a photograph analysis application. Methods: Fifty-six photographs of smiles were categorized using objective perioral morphometric measurements (Emotrics). A photographic survey of these smiles was disseminated with queries regarding smile symmetry, smile recognition, and emotion perception. Generalized linear mixed modeling (GLMM) was performed to assess the effect of facial measurements on survey responses. Results: From 756 survey responses, smile symmetry predicted for smile recognition (F = 1084, p < 0.001) and emotion perception (F = 422, p < 0.001). Correlation analysis and GLMM identified three parameters (lower lip height, commissure position, and commissure height) that predicted smile recognition (F = 1040, p < 0.001), emotion perception (F = 976, p < 0.001), and symmetry (F = 1248, p < 0.001). Lower lip height (β = -57.84, p < 0.001) and commissure position (β = -29.41, p < 0.001) were the most significant drivers. Conclusions: Correcting lower lip height and commissure position represents efficacious clinical benchmarks for improving smile recognition by reducing smile asymmetry and conveying negative emotions.

Small Architectural Forms in Tomsk Wooden Buildings in 19–20th Centuries

The paper considers small architectural forms in the wooden manor buildings of Tomsk late in the 19th and early 20th centuries and their impact on the historical image of the city. The paper also studies preservation of historical cities and loss of historical and architectural wooden heritage.Purpose: To identify the types of small architectural forms in the wooden houses of Tomsk and determine their role in the city image.Methodology: Historical photographs, drawings, and field survey of wooden buildings, archival documents and photographs by local historians P. N. Kokhanenko and R. Perushin, allowing to determine lost small architectural forms and systematize them.Research findings: Determination of small architectural forms in preserving individual history and culture of the historical city.Practical implications: The obtained results can be used to study wooden buildings of Siberian cities and develop projects for their reconstruction in Tomsk.

What Is the Perceived Environmental Restorative Potential of Informal Green Spaces? An Empirical Study Based on Visitor-Employed Photography

Informal green spaces (IGSs) play an essential role in enhancing urban well-being by offering restorative environments, yet the impact of visitor behaviors on perceived restorativeness (PR) remains underexplored. This study investigates how different spatio-temporal behaviors influence PR in IGS, providing urban planners with actionable insights to optimize these spaces for better user experiences. Using a visitor-employed photography (VEP) survey and post-visit PR assessments, K-means clustering was applied to identify distinct visitor behavior patterns. Correlation analysis further explored the relationships between these patterns and PR; the results reveal three unique clusters of visitor behaviors—fast, extensive exploration; moderate, focused exploration; and slow, thorough exploration—each showing distinct impacts on PR. Visitors who engage in rapid, broad exploration perceive larger, navigable spaces as more restorative, while those focusing on specific or in-depth exploration emphasize psychological aspects like escape and fascination. These behavioral patterns demonstrate varying strengths in their association with restorative experiences; This study underscores the importance of integrating spatio-temporal behavior data with PR assessments, highlighting how the physical and psychological features of IGS influence visitor experiences. These findings offer critical insights for designing and managing IGS to accommodate diverse user needs and promote urban well-being.

Comparing three common nest survey methods, using double-crested cormorants as a proposed sentinel for monitoring plastic pollution in freshwater environments

Many bird species use plastic as nest-building material, and nest surveys represent a unique opportunity to monitor environmental plastic pollution. However, the current literature lacks consistent, repeatable methodologies, making comparison across studies challenging. This study evaluated three common nest survey methods to assess the use of nest debris: photographic assessment, visual assessment, and nest deconstruction. We applied these methods to double-crested cormorant nests (Nannopterum auritum) at two locations on Lake Ontario, Canada. We found that for this species, nest deconstruction yielded the greatest accuracy and detail for detecting debris abundance, type, and colour. Of the two non-invasive methods, visual surveys outperformed photographic surveys across all metrics assessed. In our mainland colony, 100% of nests contained debris based on visual assessment, while at our offshore colony only 37.4% of nests contained debris, suggesting that location influences nest debris for this species. We detected Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)-related debris in 20% of all nests across survey years at our mainland colony (2022 and 2023), representing the first time that PPE has been documented in the nests of this species and demonstrating that nest surveys can be a useful tool for capturing changes in an evolving pollution landscape. This study contributes evidence that double-crested cormorants may be a useful sentinel species for monitoring plastic pollution in understudied, freshwater environments. Our results also demonstrate that the chosen method can greatly impact the results of a nest survey, and careful consideration of methodology should be undertaken before implementing a nest survey to monitor plastic pollution.

Geomorphological Compartmentation of Pereiro Massif and its surroundings, in Northern Northeast of Brazil

The Pereiro Massif (PM), located between the states of Ceará, Rio Grande do Norte and Paraíba, is a granitoid body that occupies an area of ​​approximately 2,200 km2, and and has maximum altitudes of 861 meters. This work aimed to elaborate and discuss the geomorphological compartmentalization of the Pereiro Massif and its surroundings. To this end, the following procedures were followed: 1) bibliographic and cartographic review on the geology and relief of the study area; 2) creation of the geomorphological map in a GIS environment, through SRTM image processing; 3) field activities for mapping conference, obtaining information to characterize the shapes and photographic survey. Fifteen units were mapped and grouped into three dimensions that consider the resulting processes and forms: accumulation, flattening and erosion surfaces. The compartments are classified recognizing processes associated with continental denudation with erosion, transport and deposition of material, based on structural geomorphology. The mapping carried out enhances the scientific notoriety of the PM and is expected to serve for environmental planning actions, such as the creation of protected areas and environmental licensing procedures.

Developing a Methodology to Assess Pedestrian Walkability in the City Markets Using Multi-Attribute Decision-Making Techniques

City markets are one of the busiest urban areas in India and experience heavy pedestrian footfall. This study uses multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) techniques to rank market roads based on the existing condition of pedestrian infrastructure. A set of seven key attributes was identified containing 28 sub-attributes influencing pedestrian walkability. Videography and photographic surveys were conducted at selected roads of Aminabad Market (AM) in Lucknow, and Silchar Market (SM) in Silchar. Attribute weights were calculated using the entropy weight method, and the roads were ranked using the analytical hierarchy process, the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution, and a novel walkability metric called the Market Walkability Index. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was found to be more than 0.9 among all three methods, indicating conformity in ranking. Internal or minor roads of both the market areas (AM and SM) were observed to be the most used roads of the market areas for pedestrian movement. Still, they were not safe and walkable for pedestrian movement, indicating that more emphasis is required on these roads to improve the overall quality of the pedestrian walking environment. Research findings are expected to be essential inputs for rational decision-making about pedestrian infrastructure improvement in developing countries, which could contribute to a safer and more efficient environment for pedestrian movement.

Network analyses on photographic surveys reveal that invertebrate predators do not structure epibenthos in the deep (~2000m) rocky Powell Basin, Weddell Sea, Antarctica

Predator-prey interactions in marine ecosystems control population sizes, maintain species richness, and provide intermediate disturbance. Such ecosystem structuring interactions may be rare in Antarctic epibenthic communities, which are unique among marine ecosystems worldwide for their dominance of soft bodied fauna (sponges, soft and hard corals, and echinoderms) and a simultaneous paucity of shell crushing predators (sharks, rays and durophagous decapods). In the shallow benthos, instead of durophagy, important Antarctic predators such as starfish, pycnogonids (sea spiders), nemertean worms, and nudibranchs employ grazing, scavenging, or sucking strategies. Far less is known about deep sea (&amp;gt;1000 m) Antarctic benthic communities due to the challenging nature of polar data collection, so that photographic surveys provide one of the only means of making in situ observations of these deep sea communities. We used seabed photographs of the deep (~2000m) slope of the Powell Basin, northwest Weddell Sea, taken by the Ocean Floor Observation and Bathymetry System on board the RV Polarstern (PS118, April 2019) to investigate the epibenthic community composition, and Bayesian Network Inference (BNI) to determine the ecological network, namely the ecological associations, including potential invertebrate predator-prey relationships between taxa. Photographs show that the rocky substrates of the basin slope support between 10-22 morphotaxa per photo, and highly abundant communities (density between 106 to 553 individuals/m2). BNI results reveal a network of associations between the sessile and mobile suspension and filter feeding organisms and their physical environment. However, associations between invertebrate predators like starfish, and other organisms, were not detected in the network. This lack of inclusion within the network suggests that, despite the presence of these normally important mobile predators, invertebrate predator-prey interactions on the rocky Powell Basin slope do not have the same ecosystem-regulating impact that they do on shallow Antarctic epibenthic communities.

Comparative Analysis of Liberty Market and DHA Y-Block Market Based on Urban Marketplace Vitality Parameters

Vitality is the quality that keeps any public space lively and functional throughout the day. A vibrant and dynamic marketplace is considered as the heart and soul of a city. Lahore, being a provincial capital, hosts many commercial hubs that have evolved over different periods of time and play a significant role in the city’s overall urban setting. This research investigates the factors contributing to the vitality of an urban marketplace. For this purpose, Liberty Market and DHA Y-Block Market are compared. Liberty Market, located in the central area of Gulberg, has been an expanding shopping facility ever since its establishment in 1967. Its strategic location and connectivity makes it easily accessible from all parts of the city. In contrast, DHA Y-Block Market, established in 1995, serves only the residents of DHA and nearby societies. A comparative analysis of these two markets was conducted using established vitality parameters derived from comprehensive literature sources. Mixed-methods approach was employed including frequent site visits, photographic surveys, interviews with the stakeholders, and questionnaire surveys to capture user experience and opinion. Secondary data was gathered through a comprehensive literature review deduced from historical writings and digital libraries. An analytical framework was developed to thoroughly review and critically analyze the collected data. The comparative analysis revealed the strengths and weaknesses of these commercial hubs in view of vitality parameters. Based on the identified issues, specific design interventions were proposed to enhance the overall vitality of these markets.

Transformations of the Vernacular Houses of Macedonia in the 19th Century

It is notable that the vernacular houses of 19th-century Macedonia have undergone significant developmental transformations, reflecting a complex interplay of socioeconomic, cultural, and technological influences. On this issue, over the past 40 years, extensive documentations have been produced, shedding light on the influences of 19th-century developments on these houses. In this context, this research investigates the nature and extent of these transformations, focusing specifically on traditional village and town houses in Macedonia. The research employs a qualitative approach. It utilizes data gathering techniques such as a literature survey, observations of transformations, photographic surveys, documentations, and interviews. It produces a comprehensive understanding of the changes that have occurred in Macedonian vernacular houses by triangulating data generated from these methods. The findings indicate that the developmental changes are closely linked to advancements in building materials and construction techniques. The paper thus concludes that the traditional Macedonian village and town houses are undergoing notable changes, driven by factors such as urbanization, globalization, and shifts in cultural norms. These transformations pose challenges to the preservation of cultural heritage and underscore the need for innovative approaches to architectural conservation and urban development.

Use and Occupation of the Hydrographic Micro-Basin of Igarapé do Mariano in the Municipality of Manaus-Amazonas

Objective: To analyze the dynamics of the use and occupation of land based on the planning and sustainability of natural resources at the micro-basin of Igarapé do Mariano. Method: This study is characterized by a quali-quantitative approach based on field-collected primary data, followed by data treatment in a laboratory and data analysis in an office. It presents an exploratory nature, with research and information regarding a micro-basin. Results and conclusion: The urban expansion of Manaus advances towards the Mariano micro-basin, likely leading to an intensified use and occupation of land. The recent interventions on the routes and areas of leisure at the riverbed have been provoking negative environmental impacts that are typical of the urban micro-basins of Manaus, which have been and continue being destroyed as the city expands. Implications of the research: Based on the realizations from the analyses of the use and occupation of land, the research is expected to contribute to a planning policy for the territory, be it the Mariano micro-basin or other geographical areas. Originality/value: The study’s value lies on the peculiar location of the studied area, which is situated in the transition vector of urban expansion; on the lack of studies and of deeper information on the subject; on the use of a Remotely Piloted Aircraft in the field work for the photographic and aerophotogrammetric survey, which has proven to be an effective support for the study of the geographical area. All these aspects are of high relevance to the acquired knowledge and could potentially contribute to socioenvironmental actions.

Defense and Protection of the Marine Coastal Areas and Human Health: A Case Study of Asbestos Cement Contamination (Italy)

Pivotal environmental geology research was carried out in the protected area of Cape Peloro (Messina, NE Sicily, Italy). The main aims were the ascertainment of the presence of Asbestos Cement Materials (ACMs), their mapping, and, consequently, an estimation of the potential risk for human health and marine coastal environments. The beaches surveyed covered 4500 m of coastline. Through high-resolution photographic surveys, over 520 fiber cement fragments were documented on the beaches as well as in beach deposits. The materials, after microscope, SEM-EDS, and FTIR analyses, were found to be composed of Portland cement with chrysotile and crocidolite fibers. Fragments of ACMs showed typical corrugated forms with centimeter-to-decimeter sizes and prevailing well-rounded, platy, and sub-elongate shapes. In a few localities, some fragments were found to be angular or friable. Furthermore, some fragments found on the beach were covered by conspicuous encrustations of marine organisms, testifying to their long staying in shallow-water marine environments. Illicit landfills and abandoned materials were identified in natural sections on the coastal plain. Most of the rounded ACMs were characterized by their surface texture, with mm-size asbestos fibers exposed on the surface due to significant weathering and abrasion. Notably, new fragments appeared after storms. Significant criticisms have been made related to the ACMs, analogously to what was reported for other Italian marine beaches. Possible intervention and reclamation activities cannot limit themselves to removing the fragments on the beach, as fragments are immersed in the coastal sediments at different depths and are also found in the marine deposits. Here, it is underlined that any asbestos removal and reclamation activities, if not designed and based on a multidisciplinary approach and knowledge of local coastal dynamics and the meteo-marine climate, will be very expensive and ineffective.

Palma Farm: characteristics of a Latvian community in the hinterland of São Paulo

This text discusses the architecture and daily life of Palma Farm, established from 1923 by Latvian immigrants in the district of Varpa, Tupã (SP), emphasizing the importance of both work and life pattern based on mutual aid, rooted in primitive Christianity, and propagated by the Baptist Church, shaping the overall structure. The farm was distinct from the rural environment of São Paulo at that time, dominated by coffee farming and Catholicism. The buildings were communal and constructed, wholly or partially, from wood. After a period of decline, remains of the structures, documentation, and movable assets are been restored and opened for visitation as part of Tupã's tourist itinerary. Towards documenting and analyzing its architecture and way of life, this research involves photographic and metric surveys of the remaining buildings, interviews with individuals connected to the place, and analyses primary documents and related literature, with a focus on authors such as Milia Tupes, Osvaldo Ronis, and Henrique Manoel da Silva.