Results of the stress-strain behavior estimation of gondola side stands by means of the DIC method (DIC - Digital Im-age Correlation) are described. Comparative tests of these gondola elements are performed by means of the tensome-try method as well as their modeling by means of the final element method. It is found that the DIC method allows determining deformations in welded seams as well as in other hard-to-reach places (abrupt junctions, small radii, pud-dle welds etc.). That is not executed nor at the projecting stage nor during static tests by means of tensometry method according to the existing typical methodology. There are recommendations for implementation of refined methodology of stressed state determination on gondola element nodes surface using DIC method into practice of testing centres (laboratories).