Start your aerial drone photography career

Posted by Amos Fred on December 9th, 2020

A drone has two main functions, navigation, and flight. However, they can be used for various purposes such as photography, videography, military support, and much more. In the photography and videography industry, drones in the past were only used by productions with a big budget. Today, like DSLR cameras, drones are packed with incredible features and affordable to many industry creators.

Drones have significantly changed the aerial photography game mainly because it is way more affordable than hiring a helicopter. You get as high as 4k quality footage using this tiny machine. If you are thinking about starting in drone photography, here’s a simple guide to help you get started. 

1. Buying the drone

A drone can take both photos and videos. However, if your main aim is aerial photography, you must choose a device with features that favor photography more, although there is not much difference. It is important to note that although drones are designed to take pictures, some can also carry a camera up. That said, you should look out for things like image quality, camera control, flight range, flight time, among others. 

2. Know your machine

Once you have bought your unmanned aircraft, read the manual thoroughly to understand what your device can do. Get to know all the machine features such as image stabilization and how to mount your camera. Perfect your piloting skills by taking your device for a test drive. When you know what you can and can’t do with your drone, the better your work will be because you will know how to use it to get the footage you want. 

3. Gear up

Your aircraft can come with many cool features but do they work for you and your art? This is why step one above is crucial, but you might have to accessorize a little bit even though you get the right drone. For example, if your drone comes attached to a gimbal, you can buy a DSLR camera or a go pro so you can take 360° photos and videos. You can also buy a smartphone that is compatible with your drone so you can live stream the video of our aircraft in real-time as you work. 

4. Know the drone laws in your area

All drone pilots are required to register their aircrafts weighing 0.55Ibs – 55Ibs under the Federal Aviation Administration or any other relevant institution depending on where you live. This is because, in the past, drones have been used as weapons by terrorists and other criminals. Registering your aircraft will only cost you in the US and is valid for three years. Drone pilots must also stay away from designated flight paths for planes and helicopters and residential areas as they can cause accidents and property damage, respectively.

Aerial photography with drones is relatively new, which means that today's technology is likely to change soon. Before that time comes, keep perfecting your skills as you learn more about different types of drones.