Drone photography has become increasingly popular over recent years. It has enabled photographers to increase the value of their work as drones can do more than a basic DSLR camera. The introduction of drones in the photography and video industry has made the idea of ariel photography more accessible to filmmakers.
There are big-budget drones and some affordable ones than any indie filmmaker can own. Drones come with several rules and regulations depending on who is buying and what it is being used for. You also need some piloting skills and additional knowledge of the equipment. Here’s a summary of the things you need to know when getting into drone or aerial photography.

1. Drone laws and knowledge of the airspace

The most important thing to note about drone laws is that an FAA certified pilot must fly the drone if your footage will be used for commercial purposes. The operator must also be licensed under the Part 107 class of Small Unnamed Ariel Systems. Both certifications are crucial, especially if you carry your insurance.
Two things you should keep in mind regarding the airspace is that the FAA controls it, and the government controls where you launch from. Most drones fall under the class G airspace of 400 Feet Above Ground Level. You cannot fly over national parks, nuclear plants, airports, Washington DC, Disneyland, and Individual municipalities who might have their own rules.

2. Types of drones

If you are starting, you should know the type of devices available in the market. Some drones have an in-built camera, and others require additional equipment such as a gimbal to attach a camera. Some require multiple operators, and others don’t. Some factors that will help you decide are your budget and the type of shots you want to take.

3. Be mindful of VLOS

When operating a drone, you must ensure that it is in your Visual Line of Sight (VLOS), meaning you must see it at all times. This means that you cannot fly your drone without monitoring it, and by observing it, it doesn’t mean via video. VLOS requires you to spot your aircraft with the naked eye from where you stand. If you’re taking a complicated shot, you must position yourself strategically keep your drone in your eye line. Also, you cannot pilot a drone at night without a night waiver from the FAA.

4. Safety measures

A drone is designed to take off and land on its own. Do not attempt to grab it in your hands in mid-air, which might lead to severe injuries. Additionally, do not fly your drone next to another and always keep your aircraft below 400ft. If you don’t know how to operate your device, you can always consult an expert from Red Wing Aerials.
As a beginner in the field, you might get lost in making sure you follow the rules to avoid trouble. Remember that you are an artist, and the most important thing to focus on is how a drone can help bring your vision to life.