This document discusses image interpretation from aerial photographs and remote sensing imagery. It defines image interpretation as examining images to identify objects and determine their significance. An interpreter studies remotely sensed data to detect, identify, measure and evaluate environmental and cultural features. The document outlines several elements of visual interpretation that aid this process, including tone, texture, pattern, size, shape, shadow, association and site location. It describes how these elements can be used to distinguish objects and generate thematic maps. Finally, it lists factors like sensor characteristics, season, atmosphere, resolution and motion that influence image quality.