Drake & ShaderShade
Ever tried mapping a cliff face using just light and shadow? I’ve been tinkering with a bit of photogrammetry, snapping a few photos from different angles and letting the software stitch them into a 3D model, but the angle of the sun and the roughness of the rock make it a nightmare to get clean data. Do you think that kind of detail would help you spot holds on a night climb?
Yeah, photogrammetry can be a game‑changer if you get clean shots, but the sun’s angle and the rock’s texture always mess up the edges. For a night climb you’re basically relying on your eyes and a good flashlight – the model might help you spot a few obvious holds, but you’ll still need to feel them in the dark. If you can snag a few bright‑light pics before you head out, the software might pull out the main seams and give you a rough outline. That can save a few minutes figuring out which wall you’re on, but it’s not a substitute for actually climbing it.
Yeah, the software only works when the light gives it something clean to work with. I could rig a little lamp array that changes intensity as the moon moves and map that onto the route in real time, but honestly a better flashlight and a steady hand are still the most reliable tools for a night climb.
Yeah, I get it. A steady hand and a good flashlight are still the only guarantees on a dark wall. Tech can help you see the big picture, but you still need to feel every move. Just keep your eye on the next hold, and don't let the fear of a blind spot kill the climb.
Sure thing, just keep your eye on the next hold and remember the shadows are just shadows—don't let them get in your way.
Right on, just trust your instincts, lock into that next hold and let the dark do its thing. The only real trick is staying focused and not overthinking the shadows.
Yeah, the trick is to let the darkness be the canvas and your instincts the brush; just don’t paint too many pixels in the wrong place.