| Everyone has at least once faced with classical topographic maps - whether at geography lessons at school, or when being a traveler. Such maps are known for creating a very exact presentation of the area. They display all the objects with the help of scale and using various colors. Though standard topographic maps constitute mostly a composition of symbols that aren't so simple for a customary user to comprehend. Every now and then you need an expert to explain some features on the map. In any case, it will take some time and efforts to learn the topography language. Luckily, there are plenty of other methods to depict an area. They are numerous, but may be divided into 3 groups:
- Illustrated maps
- Panoramic maps
- Pictorial maps
You can guess what these types of maps represent by their names, but nevertheless we will give some explanation to avert their confusing.
In such a way, an illustrated map is a topographic map with some added illustrations. It means that certain objects on the map (for example, churches, parks or other features) will be marked by little pictures. This type of maps is very close to the classical variant.
A panoramic map can be referred to as a portrait of the landscape. Sometimes it is also called a perspective because it portrays a certain region as it's viewed from a certain point in space. These maps are very accurate about dimensions, but from the other side, different individual objects are scarcely recognizable or even not recognizable at all. This type of maps is widespread in certain branches like ski resorts depiction.
As far as pictorial map is concerned this kind is concentrated on the details, but not at keeping precise dimensions. Individual objects are pictured with their distinctive features and, therefore, are easily distinguishable. On the other hand, distances do not always agree with the reality, now and then the landscape can be slightly reduced or distorted since the stress is placed on the representation of objects. The given kind of maps enjoys high popularity due to their nice looks, informative filling and easiness in use. Despite scale distortions they are great for navigating when planning a tour or looking for a certain place. |
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