How did I get two different kmz file sizes?

[Apavlicek]

I built two orthomosiac using the same workflow and same aerial photos . When i exported to kmz one file was 27mb and the other was over 500mb.  When I view each of the kmz file on google earth the image quality is the same. What could I have for. That caused this? I keep rebuilding the same ortho and ending up with a kmz that's over 500mb.

[Alexey Pasumansky]

Hello Apavlicek,

Which export option and what parameters you are using for both exports?

[Apavlicek]

Exported as google kmz.      I can't Remember what export parameters I used.  Could the difference in file size come from different workflows? Or is it more likely a export issue.   I've been redoing it over and over again and can't get anything close to 27mb.  It's always over 150 mb. 

[Alexey Pasumansky]

Hello Apavlicek,

There are two outputs that can be exported to KMZ: textured polygonal model via Export Model and orthomosaic via Export Orthomosaic option. These outputs are principally different and their size may differ much.

Do you still have old file? Maybe you can send it to support@agisoft.com for more detailed look?

[Apavlicek]

I no longer have the old file. Sorry for the late reply.  Which export option would yield the smaller kml/kmz file.

[Alexey Pasumansky]

Hello Apavlicek,

Make sure that you are using File Menu -> Export -> Export Orthomosaic -> Export Google KMZ option (and not Export Model). Then adjusting the export resolution in m/pix (accessible by pressing Meters button in the Export dialog) you can reduce the total dimensions of the exported orthomosaic and therefore the file size.

[Apavlicek]

In the export ortho via kml/kmz window.  There is a place to change the total pixels. Is this what your referring to?
There is also a option to change the tile size, should I be doing this as well?

[Alexey Pasumansky]

Hello Apavlicek,

Total Size fields displays the size of the orthomosaic that will be generated with the given export resolution. Actually it shouldn't be editable (and anyway the modification of the values in the actual version wouldn't have any effect on the export).

The block size actually defines the size of the tiles in the KMZ pyramid. Larger size means less tiles, but slower loading.


As for model export to KMZ, the size of such file would depend on the number of polygons in the mesh and texture atlas dimensions.

[Apavlicek]

Thank you for all help.  I’m still new at this.  Would you happen to have a screen shot of the export dialog?  I will have to look again this evening when I get home.  Im not sure I remember seeing the meters button.

[Alexey Pasumansky]

Hello Apavlicek,

The screenshot of the orthomosaic export (in KMZ format) dialog is below. "meters" button is highlighted:

[Apavlicek]

Awesome thank you.  I got it figured out finally. I appreciate all the help.