An orthophoto is a photographic image in which scale variations and displacements have been removed. These distortions are due to terrain and the geometry that applies to the vertical perspective view of the camera
An orthophoto serves the same purpose as a map. Distances can be measured accurately and bearings. Unlike a map, the othophoto does not use symbols to represent features. Features can be directly seen in the orthophoto.
There are hybrid products called orthophoto maps which include features like property boundaries, represented by lines.
The orthophoto accuracy is determined by several factors including ground sample distance, and the ground control or survey points that are used in the photo.
Orthophotos are used by organisations which have a mandate to manage certain areas or assets.
In addition, contour maps [0] can be produced with much greater detail than standard topographic sheets. Maps of many parts of the country have contour intervals of 20 metres or more.