I want to be able to import an image of my farm into PS FarmMap. Which file formats are prefered?

I also want to get a map of my property but don't want to pay too much for a photo.

Preffered File Formats

Preferred file formats / Where and How to get Maps

Preferred file formats for FarmMap are:

geotif and tif are the preferred file formats as it has the required calibration points in the image file.

If geotif or tif is unavailable then:
bmp, or jpeg formats can be used. jpeg file formats are the LEAST preferred due to their limited file size capability. Please be aware that these file formats DO NOT have calibration points in the image file. You will be required to obtain calibration points in a separate file or alternately, you can obtain your own calibration points by using your GPS.

You will not be able to calibrate your aerial map in FarmMap if you do not have the required calibration points.

Note: ECW files don't require the associated 'world' file if your software can read an ECW file. FarmMap DOES NOT handle ECW files, however, ECW files can be converted by Practical Systems. However, the resulting images do not retain the ECW calibration points.

A 'world' file is a text file that allows the software to read the geographical file and calibrate the image to the correct location. 

Rectified images are precise and all points are in their true geographical position. Most commercially images are NOT rectified. 

Where and How to get Maps

Note:

If you are just doing general planning on the property and want to see a photo and do not want actual sizes and measurements, you can use online images. However, it is not recommended by us at Practical Systems, as the image and GPS points can be inaccurate.

If you want to conduct actual planning, we recommend an aerial photo of your property.

Depending on your state, the Department of Primary Industaries has developed diffrent mapping websites for rural use.

NSW -  

https://maps.six.nsw.gov.au/

http://globe.six.nsw.gov.au/

QLD - 

https://www.dnrm.qld.gov.au/mapping-data/maps

http://qspatial.information.qld.gov.au/IQAtlas/

VIC - 

http://www.land.vic.gov.au/

http://api.maps.vic.gov.au/

http://www.vic.gov.au/about-victoria-tourism/maps/geospatial-data-maps.html

SA - 

https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/contact-us

Please contact us at Practical Systems for other contacts in regards to getting a photograph of your property with exact GPS points, which will allow you to accurately map your property.