In situ monitoring of periglacial dynamics is essential for the study of periglacial morphology and the design of mitigation and adaptation measures for infrastructure in permafrost zones. Evaluation of future effects of climate change on and from the periglacial environment requires understanding of surficial and internal deformation processes. Monitoring of internal deformation is still uncommon, primarily because of high costs. By contrast, major advancements in remote‐sensing technologies allow detailed assessment of surface deformation for large study areas. Technological advancements are anticipated to enhance spatial and temporal resolution, lighten sensors and improve unmanned aerial vehicles technology. The last of these will facilitate and reduce costs for data collection in remote areas under harsh climatic conditions. Increasing application of Structure‐from‐Motion, a photogrammetric image analysis technique, is anticipated, due to its precision, resolution, ease of usage and low cost. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.