Georeferencing an Image or a Scanned Map using ArcGIS Pro

Georeferencing is the process of associating geographic coordinates with a digital image or map. This enables the image or map to be displayed in its correct geographic location and provides a framework for spatial analysis. In this tutorial, you will learn how to georeference an image using ArcGIS pro. The tutorial consists of two main parts. In the first part of the tutorial, you will learn how to georeference an image which consist of coordinate reference information stated on the map (image). In the second part, we will discuss an example of an image which does not contain any spatial reference information stated on the map, and we will see how to make use of the available tools of ArcGIS pro to assign proper spatial reference properties by comparing the image with a basemap to find unique features which can be mapped to each other.
Georeferencing is commonly used in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) related applications, such as ArcGIS, where it is essential to have accurate spatial data. By georeferencing an image, it can be integrated with other GIS data and analyzed to identify patterns, trends, and relationships. In ArcGIS, georeferencing can be achieved through various methods, such as linking control points, raster-based registration, or manual input. The resulting georeferenced image can then be used for a wide range of applications, including land-use planning, environmental analysis, and natural resource management.
Watch more tutorials on ArcGIS Pro, head to our special 'ArcGIS Pro Tutorials' playlist - • ArcGIS Pro Tutorials

[@wildfire_lady]

I am a GIS specialist for the Department of Interior, and this is a fantastic video to explain georeferencing. I learned it in school, but I refer back to this video from time to time.

[@geodeltalabs]

Glad it was helpful! 🤠

[@humbleopinion1499]

I am a former Cartographer who used to use ArcMap, but have just got back into GIS and have to learn ArcPro - this has been very helpful as my first task is to georeference several scans of old paper maps. Great easy instructions and well explained.

[@geodeltalabs]

Thanks 😊

[@liyaoyao-k6k]

sooooooooo goooooooooooooood！very helpful！！！

[@Sparky16k]

Lovely tutorial, thanks for the upload! I often have to use imperfect scans of maps (the map sheet is warped in the scanner), could you elaborate on how you would modify the above workflow in such a case? Just add lots more points, or is there another trick you can use?
Also, probably important to mention that in the 2nd part of the video one doesn't need to match the projection and coordinate systems of the initial map, but can instead use whatever suits their project.

[@geodeltalabs]

Hi, yes it would certainly help if you add more points distributed sufficiently across your map and use a higher order polynomial transformation which can allow the map to stretch and warp as required. And I agree, for the second method that I showed, it's not necessary to fix a specific coordinate reference system as you are no longer relying on the numbers (coordinates) stated on the map :)

[@raghebkamal1100]

You did great job bro. Thank you for your valuable information. 🥰

[@thetrendline]

Thanks man! You're good at this

[@JoseGonzalez-jc8dv]

Hello question so I'm having issues with the xml File. I already added my control points and clicked save, and when I go to my project files and try to get my .jpg.aux.xml file I don't see it. I reopened Arcgis and tried to do it again. I still have the control point in place but I don't have the xml file. Do you have any advise ? Thank you

[@hellothere7268]

Very good video thank you

[@nickpotter1897]

Great video, I have a pdf map with a polygon shape on it. Once I geo reference it in Arcpro, Is there a way I can save only the polygon shape?

[@rosesh_29]

expecting a tutorial similar to arcmap for beginners with playlist

[@iwy104]

How do I know it is georeferenced correctly? Do I have to check RMSQ value? what is the tolerance?

[@vnsq9017]

Hi, what if i cant find a map with the coordination system stated?

[@johnbrock9910]

Is the second method of matching points also available on QGIS?

[@geodeltalabs]

Yes, absolutely. You can check out our 'How to georeference a map in QGIS' tutorial to check that out - th-cam.com/video/jKLBFddpTGI/w-d-xo.html

[@uselessminority6071]

thanks for the tutorial! Could you share the image file so we can also do the exercise?

[@geodeltalabs]

Yes, will add the image as a downloadable file in the description