Drone aerial photography is clearly among the primary applications of drones (quadcopter). Because of improved technology, a lot more quadcopters are now well-equipped to hold heavy camera equipment.
The unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are easy to handle, steady and able to take clear and crisp pictures. What the video camera captures and sees straight from the phone is high definition video recording to get the best results. Two of the most popular applications with this drone photography are marriage and wedding photography.
Drones are like high flying cameras that make it possible not only to capture what are already spectacular scenes, but also makes it possible to capture unique viewpoints of not-so spectacular, but common scenes and subjects.
Many current flying robots come with mounting kits that let you attach a camera to the underside of the machine. With the camera in place, any photographer or videographer has a new world of creative potential at his or her fingertips.
Wedding photographers now can use aerial photography over the bride and groom, to capture unique views of the ceremony and reception.
Drones are able to capture unique views such as amazing patterns in the landscape when viewed below 300 feet, where most planes and helicopters are not allowed to fly.
Vast Range of Drones
Professional and amateur photographers and filmmakers are some of the biggest proponents of UAVs. At least when they start out, they buy many of the more affordable models, tweak them to their liking, and use them for all sorts of still image and video projects.
As with most modern technology there is a vast range of drones on the market. There are low-cost models that will take very basic images, up to the big boys toys that will happily lift your prized DSLR up into the heavens. You can even add your GoPro on to some units that will take advantage of camera gear you may already have. One company that has a range of models that has a large percentage of the market is DJI, the world leader in camera drones/quadcopters.
As the market leader in easy-to-fly drones and aerial photography systems, DJI quadcopters, like the Phantom, are the standard in what most consumers are looking for in drone technology. Their Phantom range of drones are the first choice for many, and though they do make some high end-models, the Phantom 3 series models and Phantom 4 are probably the most popular of all the drones, with DJI Mavic Pro being one of the latest higher quality drones on the market.
Most drones today shoot high quality video, even up to 4K, which produces impressive aerial footage. Furthermore, at 4K resolution it is possible to take a high quality frame directly out of the video.
Simple Guidelines:
- Always remember that the average battery charge is 20 minutes flight time. The drone can detect when your battery is getting low and will go into RTH mode (automatic return-to-home), ensuring the drone comes back to you.
- Always start somewhere in the open, such as a park or an empty parking-lot (when not in use).
- Spend time getting used to the controls before you press the shutter button.
- Always be aware of your location in relation to what is around you since these cameras usually have a wide angle lens (20mm equivalent) and it’s easy to misjudge your positioning when in close proximity to objects such as trees and buildings, especially if viewing the smartphone screen.
Rules and Regulations
The following are basic rules to follow:
- Drone must always be in Line-of-Sight (LOS), which means you should always be able to see it at all times.
- Should not weigh over 55 lbs.
- Maximum Height 133 metres (400 feet).
- Never fly over groups of people.
- Respect others’ privacy. No flying is allowed anywhere near airports and other no-fly zones as specified in each country.
Air Safety Authorities
Be sure to check with your local air safety authorities for particular details in your area.
Future
Apart from the amazing images you will capture, flying machines are also a lot of fun! In fact, when you are in public places, you will invariably become the center of attention as people are intrigued and curious by what you are doing.
Before affordable UAVs emerged, stunning views were simply impossible to get without a plane, helicopter or giant lift. Now, the skies are open to anyone who is ready to buy a drone with photography equipment.
