6.16: Step-by-Step Camera Setup Checklists

The responsibility of the Level I thermographer is accurate, repeatable data collection.
Proper camera setup and documentation are critical to ensuring that Level II and III personnel can perform valid analysis.

Checklist 6-1: Pre-Inspection Camera Setup (All Thermography)

Before arriving on site or before powering up the camera:

☐ Verify camera model and serial number
☐ Confirm calibration status is current
☐ Inspect lens for dirt, moisture, or damage
☐ Verify correct lens is installed
☐ Check battery level (primary and spare)
☐ Confirm sufficient storage space
☐ Set correct date and time
☐ Confirm correct temperature units (°C or °F)
☐ Review inspection procedure and scope

Checklist 6-2: Initial Camera Power-On Setup

After powering on the camera:

☐ Allow camera to stabilize (per manufacturer guidance)
☐ Select correct temperature range
☐ Set emissivity to initial value per procedure
☐ Input reflected apparent temperature (if required)
☐ Enter distance to target (if applicable)
☐ Enter ambient temperature and humidity (if required)
☐ Select radiometric image capture mode
☐ Select approved color palette

Checklist 6-3: Focus and Image Quality Verification

Before capturing inspection images:

☐ Adjust focus at inspection distance
☐ Confirm sharp edges and clear thermal detail
☐ Re-focus after any change in distance
☐ Verify autofocus accuracy (if used)
☐ Check for motion blur or vibration effects
☐ Confirm target fills multiple pixels
☐ Adjust level and span to enhance contrast

Reminder:
Out-of-focus images are not acceptable for reporting.

Checklist 6-4: Emissivity and Reflection Control

For each surface inspected:

☐ Identify surface material and condition
☐ Confirm emissivity value used
☐ Adjust emissivity if surface condition changes
☐ Identify potential reflective sources
☐ Estimate reflected apparent temperature
☐ Adjust camera angle to minimize reflections
☐ Document surface condition and assumptions

Checklist 6-5: Environmental Verification

At the inspection location:

☐ Record ambient air temperature
☐ Note wind or airflow conditions
☐ Note solar loading or shadowing
☐ Check for rain, moisture, or condensation
☐ Verify equipment is under normal operating load (if required)
☐ Document any conditions that may affect results

Checklist 6-6: Image Capture Checklist (Handheld Thermography)

For each inspection image:

☐ Verify focus immediately before capture
☐ Confirm correct temperature range
☐ Confirm emissivity and reflected temperature
☐ Adjust level and span for clarity
☐ Capture radiometric image
☐ Capture corresponding visual image (if required)
☐ Verify image saved successfully
☐ Add notes or annotations (if permitted)

Checklist 6-7: Drone Thermography – Pre-Flight Camera Setup

Before takeoff:

☐ Confirm thermal sensor resolution and lens
☐ Verify gimbal stabilization operation
☐ Confirm thermal and visual sensor alignment
☐ Verify focus (manual or fixed)
☐ Set emissivity and reflected temperature
☐ Select radiometric capture mode
☐ Set image or video format per procedure
☐ Verify storage capacity
☐ Perform test image capture on ground

Checklist 6-8: Drone Thermography – In-Flight Verification

During flight (as applicable):

☐ Maintain planned altitude and standoff distance
☐ Monitor image clarity and focus
☐ Watch for motion blur or vibration
☐ Maintain appropriate viewing angle
☐ Avoid excessive yaw or pitch during capture
☐ Ensure target fills sufficient pixels
☐ Capture overlapping images if required

Checklist 6-9: Post-Capture Verification (All Inspections)

Immediately after image capture:

☐ Review images for focus and clarity
☐ Confirm thermal contrast is visible
☐ Verify radiometric data is present
☐ Confirm metadata recorded correctly
☐ Re-capture images if quality is insufficient
☐ Back up data per procedure

Checklist 6-10: Documentation Checklist (Level I Responsibility)

☐ Camera model and serial number
☐ Lens type
☐ Emissivity value(s) used
☐ Reflected apparent temperature
☐ Distance to target
☐ Environmental conditions
☐ Date and time
☐ Inspection location and component ID
☐ Operator name and Level I designation