Displaying feature labels in ArcGlobe

Labeling is an easy way to add descriptive text to features. Labels in ArcGlobe are positioned based on feature geometry, and the text strings are constructed from feature attributes.

Labels for all geometry types can be displayed as draped texture images on the surface of the globe. For billboarded point features, labels can also be displayed as 3D vector text that automatically rotates to face the camera. The method used for labeling will match the display settings for the layer. That is, layers that are being displayed as rasterized will also show their labels as draped textures, while point layers that are being displayed with 3D billboarded symbology will show their labels as billboarded vector text, as shown in the two comparison images below.

Note:

• You can display billboarded text for line, polygon or multipatch features in ArcGlobe by creating and displaying annotation features.

Defining label properties

The general process for labeling features in ArcGlobe is exactly the same as in ArcMap. You need to enable labels for the layer and define properties such as the label expression, font, and text size. You also need to set the label placement position for each label class, which is especially important for billboarded labels. Refer to the next section for more details on this particular part of enabling labels in ArcGlobe.

Learn more about the general labeling process

Note:

• When using billboarded labels inside ArcGlobe, some advanced labeling effects—such as callout boxes and leader lines—will not be displayed.

Label positioning properties

The location for the label around the source feature is a key part of defining the labeling of any feature layer. Examples for point features include offset around the point, directly on top of the point, or at specific angles around the point. ArcGlobe will use this setting to locate the label near the source point feature.

Rasterized labels are created as a 2D image, using the standard label placement engine, before being draped as a texture onto the globe surface. This means that the positioning for the labels will work in the same manner as in 2D, and all the placement options will work as expected.

Billboarded labels are placed around the billboarded point symbol on a virtual 3D plane that mimics the 2D placement logic. For example, this means that labels that are placed in the Above Center position will always rotate to face the camera such that they appear above the feature's symbol on the screen.

Tip:

• Billboarded labels are only displayed when the source feature's symbol is also visible. As a result, when a point feature is hidden behind a mountain, or distance-based visibility is used, the label will automatically turn off.