Flying drones for photography and capturing footage can be one of the most exhilarating experiences. But if you’re just getting started, it’s best to stay informed about the legalities of using a drone and what to do to take professional-looking shots.

When you first get your drone (also known as an unmanned aerial vehicle, UAV, or quadcopter), you first want to familiarize yourself with it. This will help keep you safe and minimize damage if anything happens. This article has compiled some must know drone photography tips and tricks and laws for better footage.

1) Avoid Obstacles

Obstacles such as trees and buildings can make it difficult to capture a smooth shot while flying your UAVs, so try positioning yourself in an open space where you’ll have ample aerial view. Also, make sure to avoid fields with long grass.

2) Position Your Drone

Depending on the requirement, there are several ways to properly position your drone for a great shot. The best way to begin is by flying your aircraft within its safe operating distance (SOD). This is the measurement when aircraft are allowed inside specified areas, so you should have enough experience with the device before you try to fly above this specific distance.

3) Use A Tripod When Taking Shots

A tripod can be used to capture smooth shots as it helps reduce impacts while taking pictures and lets out minimal vibrations during flight.

4) Fly At The Best Time Of Day

Flying during the best time of day helps in maximizing your shots. The sun’s rays provide great lighting for your drone to fly and capture sharp pics.

5) Minimize Your Power Usage

The same is true when taking pictures with any form of camera. Keep in mind that frequent or extended power drains will significantly shorten the life span of your battery, thus resulting in fewer shooting opportunities.

6) Fly At A Safe Distance

The FAA has said that drones should not be flown over 400 feet from the ground, which is the same for most UAVs. The organization recommends keeping your drone below this altitude during outdoor shots so as to avoid collisions with animals and humans.

7) Avoid Windy Conditions

Windy weather can make it difficult to fly a drone without experiencing wind resistance, thus creating considerable vibration. Hence it’s best to avoid flying during windy conditions. This will also reduce your drone’s range and flight time.

8) Learn The Various Flight Modes

The flight modes on your drone are meant to offer a stable and safe flight experience. When you master the different modes, you can take advantage of those more suitable for the shot you want to capture. Do not forget to consider the environment while choosing a mode, as certain modes are more effective in certain situations. For example, if you’re planning on taking pictures near a waterfall or a sea, it’s better for you to opt for an “Angle” mode as it’ll let out minimal vibrations when in use.

9) Reduce Your Camera Shake

One of the most common causes of blurred photos is due to camera shake. Several factors can lead to camera shake, such as using a camera with a long exposure time and flying at low speeds. Camera shake can be reduced by following three essential steps: setting your shutter speed, image stabilization, and flying speed. For you to fly at the best speed, it is crucial that you lower your takeoff altitude, thus increasing your flight time.

10) Keep Your Eye On The Screen

Most drones come with a Flight Recorder that serves as a playback tool for footage captured during flights. It can also be used to watch the flight path in real time.

11) Use The Right Filters

When capturing shots, a number of accessories are available that are meant to provide useful effects to your footage. These include drones with a slow motion function, which can be used for better viewing and experiencing of your shots, or the ones that come with filters designed for specific flying conditions like wind and rain. You might be interested in learning more about this practice here.

12) Take Advantage Of The Advanced Settings

Some drones feature advanced settings where you can make adjustments or adjustments that allow you to set different angles and speeds. A few of these advanced settings are meant to provide you with a smoother flight, as well as extend your battery life by adjusting the throttle.

13) Read Instructions Carefully

Each drone has specific instructions that should be followed to have a safe and smooth flight. Before each flight, read through the instruction manual so that you know exactly how to operate your aircraft.

14) Fly At The Correct Height

Each country has its own laws, and if you are planning on flying your drone in a country other than your own, it is important that you adhere to their regulations. The FAA recommends flying your UAVs within 400 feet of the ground. In order to avoid issues with airport authorities, ensure that you have registered and acquired a permit to fly. Read more about what you should know here.

15) Don’t Fly Over People

The people are some of the most common dangers you might face while operating your drone. There have been cases where people have been injured by having objects to land on due to the craft they were operating. Because of this, it’s important that you don’t fly your aircraft over people to avoid emergencies.

Flying above 400 feet is not allowed either, as this height has been determined as a distance where you’ll be required to keep your drone away from people and light objects. The FAA has also recommended keeping drones within line of sight at all times so that pilots or users can see their UAVs at all times.

Here are some additional drone safety tips:

– If you crash your drone, wait until the battery dies before trying to fix it. This is for your own safety and for the safety of others who may be flying around you. Electronics can be damaged if they’re not handled properly during flight, so when your battery dies, make sure you bring it home safely before trying to repair or take it out again.

– The FAA recommends not flying a drone within five miles of an airport.

– Flying a drone over populated areas and cities is prohibited unless you are registered with the FAA. It is illegal to fly a drone in America if you are not registered with the FAA (even outside cities or small towns). If you get caught, they may fine or even jail you. You can register your drone on the FAA’s website, but it’s too early to tell what the process will be like.

Drone photography has become more popular for special occasions. Some of the benefits of drone aerial photography include time management, versatility, minimal interference, and full-HD quality. In addition, drones can take captivating 360shots of hilltops, wedding venues, roofs, real estate, etc. Currently, there is stiff competition in the drone photography field. Therefore, you should invest your time in looking for a professional drone photographer. Hiring the right drone photographer might seem expensive, but that isn’t the case. Below are tips on how to hire a drone photographer with prices and uses:

TIPS ON HOW TO HIRE A DRONE PHOTOGRAPHER

There are various aspects that you should analyze and evaluate before hiring a drone photographer. Below are factors to consider when hiring drone pilots:

1. Licensed and Insured

Drone photographers should have a license. The objective of this license is to ensure the footage captured for the project is legal and doesn’t violate airspace laws. A licensed drone pilot will provide top-notch services. In addition, the right drone pilot should be insured.

2. Experience

The experience of the drone photographer is a key aspect that’ll determines the quality of photos and videos. In addition, an experienced drone pilot will provide great editing skills. The right drone photographer should have more than five years of experience in this industry.

3. Airspace Restrictions

It’s important to determine the airspace restrictions when hiring drone photographers. The right drone pilot will analyze the rules and regulations of the location and give you feedback. In addition, ensure you understand the condition and type of the drone.

4. Inquire About Additional Drone Services

Post-processing and editing are important post-production services that you should inquire about. As previously mentioned, most drone photographers have editing skills and experience. These services might cost you more, but they’re worth it. The right drone photographer will give you a portfolio of previous work. Analyze the portfolio to ensure it suits your tastes and wants.

DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY USES AND PRICES

a. Roof Inspection

Whether it’s a commercial or domestic roof inspection, it’s important to hire a professional drone photographer. The objective of a drone roof photographer is to inspect the conditions of your roof, air conditioning units, chimney, and ventilation. Detecting and repairing roof problems early can be cost-effective. The average cost of hiring a drone roof photographer ranges between $150 to $400. There are various factors that inf the price of drone roof inspection, including the size and complexity of the roof. In addition, below are some of the benefits of drone roof inspection:

– Increased precision

– Increased safety

– 3D models of the roof and surrounding area

– High-resolution video capture

– Reduced insurance costs

– Thermal imaging

b. Agriculture Survey

Agriculture drone photography requires professionalism, piloting skills, and expertise in agriculture and land surveying. Approximately, drone land survey cost ranges between $30 to $120 per acre. Some of the factors that influence the price of agriculture drone photography are the amount of time needed to complete the project, land size, and the type of survey. There’s a wide range of benefits to using drones in agriculture:

– Increased efficiency

– Reduced crop survey cost

– 3D mapping of land

– Reduced CO2 emissions

– Increased mapping accuracy

– Increased crop yield

– Save money on insurance

c. Real Estate Survey

Based on research, there’s an increased demand for real estate drone photography. It’s a lucrative industry with the high competition; therefore, realtors are using drone photography to attain a competitive edge. Real estate drone photography can cost between $50 and $400, depending on the square feet of the area. The cost covers the exterior and interior shots. There are two types of interior photos: 360photos and HDR photos. Below are some of the benefits of hiring a real estate drone photographer:

– Showcase the property surrounding

– Boost real estate marketing

– Provides breathtaking perspectives

d. Advertising

Drone photography can help you attain a competitive advantage. The cost of drone photography in advertising ranges between $100 to $450 per hour. Some drone photographers might charge $500 to $800 per project. The cost of drone photography in advertising can be affected by various aspects, including the expertise of the pilot, the type of drone, and the certifications required. Benefits of drone photography in advertising include:

– Increased sales

– Enhance online presence

– High-resolution photos and video capture

e. Wedding Occasions

Wedding drone photography has high demand because people are looking for high-quality pictures and videos that define their memories. A starter package for this industry can cost you $500 to $600.

FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE PRICES OF DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY

I. Drone Model

Different drones have different prices. The specifications and features of the drone will influence its price. Therefore, drone photographers using high-end drones and equipment will charge higher.

II. Image Quality

The type of drone will determine the image quality. Drone photographers who take high-quality images will charge higher. The quality of photos and videos can vary between standard definition (SD) to 8K+.

III. Permission Levels

Different states have different local rules and regulations. In some states, drone photographers will require a permit to take photos, especially if the venue is close to a military base or airport. Securing these permits will incur additional costs. The level of restriction will influence the total cost.

IV. Job Type

There are numerous industries that require drone photography, including real estate, advertising, roof inspection, and agriculture. The complexity of the job will influence its price. Some jobs will cost as low as $50, whereas others will cost $8000.

V. Post-Processing and Editing

Most drone pilots have in-depth knowledge of photo and video editing. Therefore, if you don’t have sufficient experience in this industry, opt for professional services. Post-processing can include an array of services, such as color grading, video stitching, adding music, voiceovers, etc. Some drone photographers will include these services in the package.

VI. Geographical Location

The geographical location can influence the price of drone photography. Drone pilots will charge more in order to cover their transport costs and other hidden costs. Therefore, hiring a local drone photographer is a cost-friendly approach.

CONCLUSION

Other factors that can influence the pricing of drone photography are the personnel required, the time spent to complete the project, and the experience of the drone pilot. There are some aspects that you should consider when selecting a drone photographer, such as years of experience, reputation, editing skills, etc.

Drones have become an integral part of photography in the last few years. From capturing aerial views to being used as a surveillance device, drones are without a doubt one of the most powerful tools for photographers or videographers. They can also be expensive, but for today’s budget-conscious collectors, drones with useful features and functions that won’t break the bank is where it is at. Here are the picks for the best drones for photography types with prices and features.

DJI PHANTOM 3 PROFESSIONAL QUADCOPTER WITH 4K UHD VIDEO

The DJI Phantom 3 is one of the latest in drone technology and features everything you could want in a professional drone. It’s packed with great features such as a 4K ultra-high definition video camera, 25 minute battery life, live HD video FPV (first person view) up to 1.2 miles away, GPS guidance system and easy to use app that acts as your controller. With a flight time of up to 25 minutes, there’s enough time to get some great shots in the air or do some aerial mapping. However, this isn’t the drones for photography under $1000.

Buying Options

Features

Camera: 4K Ultra HD Video Camera : 3-axis gimbal stabilization and full control via dedicated remote controller with live video feed.

FPV: 720p HD live video streaming and recording allows pilot to see world in real-time with DJI goggles and drone on same WiFi network.

Flight Control: GPS and GLONASS dual positioning system ensures precise positioning indoor or outdoors.

Range (approximate): Up to 1.2 mi (2 km).

Flight Time: Up to 25 minutes.

Price: $1,400.00

3DR IRIS+ QUADCOPTER WITH HD CAMERA

With a flight time of up to 25 minutes and an app that allows you to control the drone from your phone or tablet, the 3DR IRIS+ is the perfect drone for photographers who want the ability to obtain high-quality aerial images. It’s extremely easy to use and comes with everything you need to get it in the air. The camera can take photos at a high 16 MP resolution and full 1080p/30fps video. This also has WiFi connectivity, allowing you to use the 3D Robotics mobile app (iOS/Android) to control and monitor your drone from your smart phone or tablet while you take photos and videos.

Buying Options

Features

Camera: 16 Megapixel Camera : 3-axis gimbal stabilization and full control via dedicated app.

FPV: 720p HD live video streaming and recording allows pilot to see world in real-time with 3D Robotics goggles.

Flight Control: GPS and GLONASS dual positioning system ensures precise positioning indoor or outdoors.

Range (approximate): Up to 500 ft (150 m).

Flight Time: Up to 25 minutes

Price: $999.00

7. SPRUCE QUADCOPTER DRONE W/ HD CAMERA

The Spruce Quadcopter is a very fun drone to fly and with a flight time of up to 20 minutes, you’ll have plenty of time to shoot all the photos and videos you need. It’s equipped with an HD video camera that can be activated with just the push of a button while still capturing photos in 5 MP resolution. This also has WiFi connectivity, allowing you to use the Spruce mobile app (iOS/Android) to control and monitor your drone from your smart phone or tablet while you take photos and videos. Flight time is 25 minutes and you can even buy spare batteries for the drone.

Buying Options

Features

Camera: 5 MP Photo resolution and 720p HD video resolution.

FPV: 720p HD live video streaming and recording allows pilot to see world in real-time with Spruce goggles and drone on same WiFi network.

Flight Control: GPS and GLONASS dual positioning system ensures precise positioning indoor or outdoors.

Range (approximate): Up to 1.2 mi (2 km).

Flight Time: 25 minutes

Price: $369.00

3D ROBOTICS IRIS+ QUADCOPTER DRONE KIT

This drone is perfect for the hobbyist who wants to get started shooting aerial photography from their spare time and it comes with everything you need to get it in the air. You can even add on a 3-axis gimbal stabilization system to the camera, making your photos and videos look even smoother. This also has WiFi connectivity, allowing you to use the 3D Robotics mobile app (iOS/Android) to control and monitor your drone from your smart phone or tablet while you take photos and videos. Flight time is 25 minutes and you can even buy spare batteries for the drone.

Buying Options

Features

Camera: 5 MP Photo resolution and 720p HD video resolution.

FPV: 720p HD live video streaming and recording allows pilot to see world in real-time with 3D Robotics goggles.

Flight Control: GPS and GLONASS dual positioning system ensures precise positioning indoor or outdoors.

Range (approximate): Up to 1.2 mi (2 km).

Flight Time: 25 minutes Price: $369.00

DJI PHANTOM 2 VISION+ QUADCOPTER WITH 1080P CAMERA AND 3-AXIS GIMBAL STABILIZATION

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ is perfect for the serious hobbyist who wants to get a professional DSLR-quality aerial photograph. It comes with a 3-axis gimbal stabilization and a 1080p video camera for smooth, stutter free video footage. Photos are taken in a 5 MP photo resolution and are saved as .JPG or .AVI files. This also has WiFi connectivity, allowing you to use the DJI GO mobile app to control and monitor your drone from your smart phone or tablet while you take photos and videos. Flight time is 49 minutes and you can even buy spare batteries for the drone.

Buying Options

Features

Camera: 1080p Video Camera with 5 MP Camera : 3-axis gimbal stabilization and full control via dedicated remote controller with live video feed.

PV: 720p HD live video streaming and recording allows pilot to see world in real-time with DJI goggles and drone on same WiFi network.

Flight Control: GPS and GLONASS dual positioning system ensures precise positioning indoor or outdoors.

Range (approximate): Up to 1.2 mi (2 km).

Flight Time: 49 minutes

Price: $849.00

Drones are all the rage these days, and there’s good reason to love them. Whether you are a hobby photographer, a professional, or just someone who wants to capture some aerial footage for cool videos and pictures, drones are an incredible tool for capturing shots that would otherwise be impossible. They can provide amazing views of events from angles you have never seen before. They can take photos in places that would otherwise be inaccessible. They can do things that regular cameras just cannot – like fly through the air at insane speeds or shoot video in crystal-clear high definition 4K resolution.

Who Is A Drone Pilot?

A drone is known as – unmanned aerial vehicle or UAV. A person who can operate a UAV is called a drone pilot. Modern drones have cutting-edge technology. Hence, it’s not a child’s toy anymore. Only professionally trained persons can operate modern drones.

Can A Drone Pilot Have Job Opportunities?

Yes, drones are becoming an extremely popular tool and industries need professional drone pilots. That’s why, if you are properly trained, then you can get some exciting job opportunities.

Basic Requirements To Become A Drone Pilot

To become a professional drone pilot, you need a Remote Pilot Certificate (part 107). Try to complete your FAA Airman Certificate Training and show some experience. You should remember that Aeronautical Knowledge Test – is truly important to become a qualified drone pilot.

10 Best Drone Photography Jobs with Qualifications Needed And Average Pay

1) Filmmaking

High-budget films and songs now require drone shots. It could be action or a beautiful scene. Drone shots can give a film an extraordinary angle. So, it’s a great drone photography job.

Qualifications –

1) Remote Pilot Certificate (part 107)

2) Drone Aerial Cinematography Course

3) FAA License

4) Professional Experience

Average Pay –

You can expect a $40,000 – $80.000 salary yearly. But if you are a freelancer, then you can get a $50 – $500 hourly payment.

2) Recue Operation Managers

Rescue operations often need drone shots. Drones can travel to remote and risky places. That’s why rescue operation managers love drones. So, if you are a drone expert, then it could be a great job for you.

Qualifications –

1) Remote Pilot Certificate (part 107)

2) A Bachelor’s Degree

3) Aeronautical Knowledge Test Certificate

4) Basic Knowledge of The Terrain

5) Years of Experience

Average Pay –

Usually, rescue operations require expert freelancers. So, you can expect a $200 – $800 hourly payment. But, the amount of payment depends on the nature and difficulty of the job.

3) Military Observation (RPA)

Remotely Piloted Aircraft – is a US military job for drone operators. If you are dreaming of thwarting the plans of your enemies, then you would love this job. However, you have to pass a stringent test to operate military drones.

Qualifications –

1) A Bachelor’s Degree

2) Airforce Remote Pilot Training

3) Aeronautical Navigation Knowledge

4) Great Background

5) Age between 18 to 40.

Average Pay –

You can expect a above $40,000 yearly salary.

4) Professional Content Creators

From weddings to YouTube videos, drone photography has touched new heights. Everybody wants to have a great aerial angle in their videos. That’s why professional drone content creators are in high demand.

Qualifications –

1) Remote Pilot Certificate (part 107)

2) Drone Aerial Cinematography Course

3) FAA License

4) Professional Experience (optional).

5) Video Editing (optional).

Average Pay –

As a freelancer, you can earn between $20 to $200 hourly. But if you get big projects, you can earn hundreds of dollars every day.

5) Agricultural Industry

Drones have been a boon to the agricultural industry. With advanced sensors, drones can check the health of the crops. Moreover, drones can also save crops by spraying pesticides. In short, drones have a bright future in the Agricultural industry. Hence, you can pick this career.

Qualifications –

1) Aeronautical Knowledge Exam Certificate (FAA)

2) FAA Licenses

3) Knowledge About Agricultural Industries Or A Diploma in Agriculture

4) Knowledge Of Aerial Restrictions

Average Pay –

You can expect a salary between – $40.000 – $60,000 (yearly). For freelancing projects, you can get $20 – $100 hourly payments.

6) Mapping

Nowadays, 3D maps are created with the help of drones. Drone videos, photography, and sensors can create excellent maps. Therefore, it’s a great chance to show your drone operational skills.

Qualifications –

1) Remote Pilot Certificate (part 107)

2) Aeronautical Knowledge Test Certificate

3) Basic Knowledge of The Terrain

4) Years of Experience

5) A Degree in Topography.

6) Knowledge in Robotics and Aviation (for 3D Mapping)

Average Pay –

The Average salary is – $60.000 yearly. As a freelancer, you can get $250 to $1000 after completing your projects.

7) Power Line Inspection

Power lines often have faults and only a good inspection can reveal the actual cause behind the fault. A drone operator can reach difficult places and can inspect a power line quickly. Thus, power line inspection requires good drone operators.

Qualifications –

1) Remote Pilot Certificate (part 107)

2) Aeronautical Knowledge Test Certificate

3) Basic Knowledge of Power Lines.

4) An Electrical Inspection License.

5) Experience

Average Pay –

You can get between $3500 to $5000 monthly salary. But, if you are doing a freelancing job, then you can get $25 to $70 hourly payments.

8) Building Inspector

After completing a building, a building inspector often inspects it. Apart from that, a flaw in architectural design is also inspected by a building inspector. So, if you want a job to show your drone photography skills, then you can become a building inspector.

Qualifications –

1) Remote Pilot Certificate (part 107)

2) Aeronautical Knowledge Test Certificate

3) Architectural Engineering Or A Master’s Degree in Architecture

4) Building Inspection License

5) Professional Experience

Average Pay –

A building inspector or an architectural inspector can get $10 – $40 per hour.

9) Advertisement

The advertisement industry is desperately seeking drone photography experts. They want HD drone videography for their products. Therefore, it could be a highly promising industry for drone operators.

Qualifications –

1) Remote Pilot Certificate (part 107)

2) Drone Aerial Cinematography or Videography Course

3) Professional Experience

4) Knowledge about Aerial Restrictions

5) Knowledge in Editing (optional)

Average Pay –

A professional drone operator can get a salary between $30000 – $50000. As a freelancer, you can get $20 – $150 hourly payments.

10) Drone Trainer or Drone Instructor

If you have enough experience and proper certificates, then you can become a drone instructor. A drone instructor or trainer can teach students in drone schools. They may help students to pass (part 107) exams. Hence, it’s a good job.

Qualifications –

1) FAA License and Registration

2) Remote Pilot Certificate (part 107)

3) Experience In Aviation Industry

4) Technical Knowledge

5) Real-life Experience

Average Pay –

As a drone instructor, you can get a $30,000 to $60.000 salary (yearly).

To master drone operational skills, you need to buy a modern drone. Drones have different types of sensors and cameras. You need to understand all of it.

Drones are now taking over the world. So, it could be a great opportunity for you to enter this young industry. An experienced and skilled drone photographer may get great job opportunities. Hence, start honing your drone operational skills now.

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