Geomorphological studies often require the accurate and efficient acquisition of topographic data. A set of elevation data for different periods is particularly important, because it permits the evaluation of landform change. To obtain such data in a form of the digital elevation model, photogrammetric techniques have been applied to aerial and terrestrial photographs. This approach has often been taken in North America and Europe to facilitate geomorphological research including the analysis of river channel shift, landslide movement, and gully erosion. In contrast, Japanese geomorphologists have only infrequently applied photogrammetric techniques. To facilitate such studies in Japan, this paper reviews photogrammetric applications in geomorphology with emphasis on four aspects : 1) historical development of photogrammetric techniques ; 2) overview of case studies in regions other than Japan especially North America and Europe ; 3) characteristics of relevant studies in Japan ; and, 4) errors in topographic measurements by photogrammetry.
