Creating a 3D scene

As we said, ArcGIS Pro allows you to create 3D maps as part of its core functionality regardless of license level. So that is what you are about to do. In this scenario, you are working for an engineering firm that is working on a project to possibly turn a quarry into a water reservoir. The lead engineer on the project has asked you to create a 3D map of the area that he will use during a presentation to the client. This will help the client and engineer visualize the area as he creates his plan.

In ArcGIS Pro, a 3D map is called a scene. When creating a new 3D scene, one of the first things you need to determine is what data will serve as the ground surface. The ground surface becomes the canvas that all 2D layers are draped across. Yes, a 3D scene will include both 2D and 3D layers. Typical 2D layers might include an aerial photo, parcels, political boundaries, and natural water features. These often help put your 3D layers into context. The ground surface can also...