How to Pick a Drone Photographer: Top Tips to Keep in Mind

As of 2016, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported a staggering 670,000 drone registrations. What's even more impressive? The number is expected to dramatically rise in the coming years.

Also known as small unmanned aircraft systems or UAS, drones are now considered the best way to capture breathtaking aerial shots. No wonder many brands have now added a persuasive and powerful tool to their marketing arsenal—aerial drone photography.

Undoubtedly, a bird's eye view is both engaging and enthralling. That said, many brands deem it smart to incorporate aerial drone photography in their storytelling and advertising.

Drone Photography in a Nutshell

As cliche as it may sound, not all drones have been created equal. The same can be said when it comes to drone operators. Drones can range from tech toys to ones that have cinema-quality cameras and lenses. The latter will often require two operators: one to operate the camera and another to fly the drone.

Some drones have been designed to shoot movie-level footage. The difference between drones that only cost around $40 (intermediate hobbyist level drones) and those that come with a hefty price tag (at least $20 grand for some) is the costly ones come with several lenses.

Intermediate drones also come with fixed-focus lenses, so getting those stunning aerial shots has never been easier. However, hiring the right drone photographer is just as important as using the right equipment to get those phenomenal images.

When picking a drone photographer for your next advertising campaign, keep the following tips in mind:

Results

Flying a drone and getting phenomenal images requires two different skills. That said, it is ideal that you work with a drone professional that has mastered both. Essentially, ideal drone photographers should have a clear idea of the camera settings required to achieve your desired results.

Also, it would be best to hire a drone photographer with a clear command and understanding of composition and pacing. Although most intermediate drones can provide unbelievable camera stabilization resulting in smooth shots, unskilled drone photographers can easily undo the clever engineering.

For instance, if you are looking for a stunning sunrise shot, but the camera jerks to the left drastically, there is a possibility that the shot can take off a new tangent. This is deemed a trademark of an amateur operator and can ruin a great shot instantly.

To avoid hiring someone who can't produce the results you desire, ask your prospects about their experience and ask if they can provide some previous work before signing on the dotted line.

License

As of August 29, 2019, the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) requires businesses to get a license to use drones. A license is considered vital as it can help guarantee any captured footage is legal and won't violate restricted space or UAS laws.

Also, licensed drone operators are less likely to put your brand's name and reputation at risk. Licensed drone operators are also less likely to break any airspace rules or fly their drones at disruptive times.

Shots

It is important to remember that having a great portfolio does not always mean a prospect can produce the shots you want. That said, it is recommended that you inquire about the kind of footage they can deliver and the capabilities of their drone.

In addition, if you intend to hire two directors of photography (one for your drone shots and the other for the bulk of your footage), you need to make sure the quality of their work is more or less the same so you will have a polished product.

Story

It can be straightforward to get lost in all the excitement of producing unique and stunning shots. However, it is also crucial that you determine if the drone footage can tell your story effectively and powerfully.

You also need to keep in mind that while most drone shots are unique and dramatic, they can be the opposite when taken by a novice. Producing hard-to-get pictures that will impress and resonate with people will require the expertise and skills of a professional.

If anything, the right drone professionals can produce footage and images that can tell your brand's story beautifully and powerfully. In line with this, it is recommended that you choose a drone photographer that knows how to tell your story the best way possible.

Final Thoughts 

To date, the peerless benefits of drone technology remain unparalleled. If you want to invest in drone photography, keep the tips laid out above in mind. Doing so can make it a lot easier for you to find the best drone photographer to work with—one that can powerfully tell your brand's story while giving you the most bang for your buck.