| Each of us has at least once confronted standard topographic maps - whether at school, or while being a traveler. Such maps are known for creating a very exact presentation of the landscape. They display all the objects with the help of scaling and using different colors and lines. Although topographic maps constitute in the most part a composition of symbols that aren't so simple for an ordinary user to understand. From time to time you need an expert to explain all the features on the map. In any case, it'll take some efforts and time to learn the topographic maps language. Luckily, there are a lot of other methods to depict a landscape. They are numerous, but may be divided into 3 main groups:
- Illustrated maps
- Panoramic maps
- Pictorial maps
You can surmise what these types of maps represent by their names, but nevertheless we'll give some explanation to prevent possible confusion.
This way, an illustrated map is a topographic map with some added illustrations. It means that individual objects on the map (for instance, buildings, parks or other features) will be indicated by small images. This kind of maps is the closest one to the standard variant.
A panoramic map can be regarded as a portrait of the landscape. From time to time it's also called a perspective because it pictures a certain area as it is viewed from above. Such maps are very accurate about dimensions, but from the other side, various individual objects are scarcely distinguishable or even not distinguishable at all. Such type of maps is widespread in certain branches like ski resorts depiction.
As for pictorial map this kind is focused on the details, but not at following accurate dimensions. Individual objects are pictured with their distinguishing features and, therefore, are easily recognizable. On the other hand, distances do not always conform to the reality, now and then the landscape can be slightly reduced or distorted because the emphasis is placed on the representation of objects. The given type of maps enjoys high popularity thanks to their nice appearance, self-descriptiveness and easiness in use. Despite scale distortions they are great for navigating while planning an excursion or looking for a certain place. |
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