Tristan H's GIS Blog

  Isarithmic Mapping Lab – Visualizing Precipitation Patterns For this lab, I explored the creation of isarithmic maps using continuous raster data to visualize average annual precipitation across Washington State. The objective was to apply different symbology methods, including continuous tones, hypsometric tinting, and contour overlays, to effectively represent a continuous surface. I began by working with PRISM-interpolated precipitation data, which incorporates elevation and other physiographic factors to improve spatial accuracy. First, I created a continuous tone map using a stretched precipitation color ramp, blending precipitation values smoothly across the state. Then, I developed a hypsometric tint map by manually classifying the data into ten ranges, applying distinct color bands to highlight differences in precipitation levels. To enhance visual clarity, I overlaid contour lines corresponding to the classified intervals. Throughout the process, I applied key cartogr...

  🎨 Mapping Europe: Population Density and Wine Consumption with ArcGIS Pro In this lab for my computer cartography course, we dove into the world of thematic mapping , specifically focusing on choropleth and proportional symbol mapping using ArcGIS Pro. The assignment centered around visualizing population density across Europe and overlaying wine consumption data using symbol-based mapping techniques. 🗺️ Objective The goal was to build a visually compelling and informative map that communicates population patterns and cultural trends through spatial data. We used a choropleth map to represent population density and then experimented with either graduated or proportional symbols to visualize wine consumption per capita . The combination highlights both the concentration of people and regional wine-drinking habits in an engaging visual format. 🧩 Methods & Techniques Software Used : ArcGIS Pro Key Tasks : Created a choropleth map using the POP_DENSIT attrib...

  🗺️ Understanding the Power of Data Classification in Cartography: A Deep Dive into Miami-Dade Senior Populations In this lab assignment for Computer Cartography , I explored the world of data classification using ArcGIS Pro. The focus was on symbolizing and interpreting demographic data—specifically, the percentage of residents over age 65 in Miami-Dade County, Florida—using four common classification methods: Equal Interval, Quantile, Standard Deviation, and Natural Breaks. The goal of this exercise was not just to apply GIS tools, but to understand how different classification methods influence how spatial data is perceived and interpreted. This is a critical skill in cartography and spatial analysis, especially when communicating complex datasets to different audiences. 🖼️ Map Showcase 🧭 About the Lab and Objectives The assignment guided me through: Working with 2010 U.S. Census data at the census tract level for Miami-Dade County. Using graduated color symbo...

  Cartographic Design Lab Summary In this lab, we practiced the principles of cartographic design by creating a map layout that communicates spatial information clearly and effectively. The main goal was to apply visual hierarchy and thoughtful design choices to produce a professional-quality map of Ward 7's Public schools in the Greater Washington DC Area. Concepts and Tools: ▪ Gestalt’s Principles  ▪ Visual Hierarchy, Figure-ground distinction, Contrast, Balance ▪ Map frames and layouts in ArcGIS Pro ▪ Labels and Annotations in ArcGIS Pro ▪ Symbology in ArcGIS Pro ▪ Graphics and Text in ArcGIS Pro Map:  I used visual weight to ensure that the end user is drawn to the intended information as well as background colors which complemented the map extent. Additionally, I used the map elements in a way that is user friendly and balances the layout. Furthermore  I achieved visual hierarchy with my map by sticking to Gestalts principles drawing attention to the school sym...

Mapping Florida: A Cartographic Typography Lab For this lab assignment, we were tasked with creating a detailed and visually effective map of the state of Florida. The primary goal was to practice the application of proper typography techniques to a geographic dataset using ArcGIS Pro. This exercise emphasized the importance of font choice, size, weight, color, and label placement when mapping various types of features including points, lines, and areas. Objective The main objective of this lab was to explore typographic principles in cartography. Specifically, we were asked to: Accurately label point, line, and polygon features. Apply different typographic styles based on feature type. Use annotation for precise control over text placement. Include all essential map elements: title, legend, scale bar, orientation, cartographer info, and data sources. Final Map Explanation of My Map My map of Florida includes the required features such as major cities, rivers, and wetlands...