Forum member aksingha asks: I am trying to model a station, but I don't have any map or blueprint. Is there a way to model it using Google Earth / Google Maps?
Forum member CARex, an experienced modeler, answers (edited from forum post):
My routine for almost everything...
1) Google Earth the site, take pic of subject, measure the structure and apply data to pic.
Dimensions are for scaling your model to correct size.
2) Use Bing Maps, Google Street View, or other sources to obtain decent views of subject, to help you in modeling in 3D.
3) Gather decent images for photo-shopping into textures that you can apply to your 3D model.
4) Model the building and apply your textures.