Two photographs of the same section are used, but taken slightly offset from each other. These two photographs are called a stereo pair. Taking stereo pairs allows the photographs to be look at three-dimensionally using a stereoscope. From these photos, the timber is typed out by stand, or areas of similar age, size and species of trees. Maps are made of these types and number of plots are determined for the desired intensity of the cruise.
More plots means more trees are sampled and the data is of higher accuracy.
Taking more plots also costs more in time and money. All this information is then given to the timber cruiser who then finds a convenient starting point off a road, section corner, or section line crossing a road. The cruiser then locates their first plot by compass and pacing. Any of this information can vary depending on the purpose of the cruise. For some cruises, underbrush information or snag count may be recorded, or any other information deemed necessary may be taken.