Are you interested in starting a drone photography business? A drone photography business can be a great way to turn your passion for photography and technology into a profitable career. With the rise of drone technology, aerial photography has become more accessible and popular than ever before. But where do you begin?

In this article, we’ll outline the essential steps you need to take to start a successful drone photography business, from acquiring the necessary equipment and developing a portfolio to marketing your services and ensuring legal compliance. So if you’re ready to take your drone photography skills to the next level and start your own business, keep reading!

A Brief Drone History

Drone photography has a relatively short but rapidly evolving history. The first known aerial photograph was taken in 1858 by French photographer Gaspard-Félix Tournachon, commonly known as Nadar. He used a tethered balloon to capture a bird’s eye view of Paris.

In the early 1900s, kite photography became popular, and photographers used kites to lift cameras into the air to capture aerial views. During World War I, military aircraft were used for reconnaissance, and cameras were mounted on planes to capture images of enemy territory.

It wasn’t until the 1980s and 1990s that remote-controlled drones were developed for civilian use, primarily for hobbyists and researchers. These early drones were often cumbersome and expensive, with limited capabilities.

In the 2000s, the development of smaller, lighter, and more affordable drones revolutionized aerial photography. With the rise of social media and the demand for visually stunning content, drone photography quickly became popular among photographers, videographers, and enthusiasts.

Today, drones are widely used for aerial photography and videography in a variety of industries, including real estate, construction, agriculture, and filmmaking. Advances in drone technology have made it possible to capture high-quality images and video from unique angles and perspectives, giving photographers and videographers new creative possibilities.

As drone technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more innovative and creative uses for aerial photography in the future.

Starting a Drone Photography Business

Starting a drone photography business can be an exciting venture, but it also requires careful planning and execution to be successful. Here are some steps you can take to get started:

1. Obtain necessary certifications and licenses: Before you can start a drone photography business, you will need to obtain the necessary certifications and licenses. This includes obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) if you plan to operate your drone for commercial purposes.
2. Invest in quality equipment: To produce high-quality drone photography, you will need to invest in quality equipment. This includes a drone with a good camera, backup batteries, a high-quality gimbal, and other accessories that will help you produce professional-quality photographs and videos.
3. Develop a portfolio: To attract clients, you will need to develop a portfolio of your work. This can include photos and videos that showcase your skills and expertise in drone photography.
4. Define your target market: Identify your target market and the types of services you will offer. This could include real estate agents, construction companies, event planners, and other businesses that may need aerial photography.
5. Set your pricing: Determine how much you will charge for your services. This will depend on various factors such as the type of services you offer, the complexity of the project, and your level of experience.
6. Market your business: Promote your business through various marketing channels such as social media, online directories, and networking events. You can also consider offering discounts or free trials to attract new clients.
7. Counting Your Costs: The cost to become a drone photographer can vary depending on several factors such as the equipment, training, and certification required.
8. Practical Business Start-Up Fundamentals: Starting a small business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor, but it also requires careful planning and preparation.

Starting a drone photography business requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to producing high-quality work. With careful planning and execution, you can build a successful and profitable business in this exciting field.

1. Obtain Necessary Certifications and Licenses

To legally operate a drone for commercial purposes, you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA requires that drone operators pass an aeronautical knowledge test to obtain the certificate. The test covers topics such as airspace classifications, flight restrictions, weather patterns, and emergency procedures.

To prepare for the test, you can study the FAA’s Remote Pilot – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Study Guide. You can also enroll in a training course or work with a certified drone pilot to gain practical knowledge and experience.

In addition to obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate, you may also need to obtain additional licenses or permits depending on your location and the type of services you offer. For example, if you plan to operate your drone in a national park, you may need to obtain a special use permit.

It’s important to make sure that you comply with all applicable regulations and obtain the necessary certifications and licenses before starting your drone photography business. This will help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are operating your business safely and responsibly. There are legal and policy implications of integrating drones into the national airspace system, including property rights, privacy, and regulations. Read, “Understanding Property Rights and Regulations for Drones.”

2. Invest In Quality Equipment

Investing in quality equipment is essential to producing high-quality drone photography. You will need a drone with a good camera that can capture high-resolution photos and videos. It’s important to choose a drone that meets your specific needs and requirements, such as flight time, range, and maneuverability.

In addition to a good drone, you will also need a quality gimbal to stabilize your camera and reduce the effects of wind and other environmental factors. A good gimbal will help you capture smoother and more stable footage, resulting in higher-quality photos and videos.

Other accessories that can be useful for drone photography include spare batteries, extra memory cards, and propeller guards. These items can help you stay prepared for longer flights and unexpected challenges.

When choosing your equipment, it’s important to consider your budget, the type of services you plan to offer, and the level of competition in your area. You don’t necessarily need to invest in the most expensive equipment, but you should aim to choose high-quality and reliable gear that can meet your needs.

By investing in quality equipment, you can provide your clients with professional-level drone photography services that stand out from the competition.

There are many drone manufacturers that produce drones for photography, but here are some of the top manufacturers:

1. DJI: DJI is a Chinese company that is considered to be the leader in the drone industry. They produce a wide range of drones for different purposes, including drone photography. Some of their popular models include the Phantom, Mavic, and Inspire series.
2. Autel Robotics: Autel Robotics is a relatively new player in the drone industry, but they have gained popularity for their high-quality drones with advanced features. Their popular models include the Evo, Evo II, and Nano drones.
3. Parrot: Parrot is a French company that produces drones for various purposes, including drone photography. Their popular models include the Anafi and Bebop drones.
4. Skydio: Skydio is another drone manufacturer that produces drones for various purposes, including drone photography. They are a US-based company known for their autonomous drones that use advanced artificial intelligence and computer vision technologies. Their popular models include the Skydio 2 and Skydio X2 drones, which are known for their obstacle avoidance capabilities and high-quality cameras. Skydio drones have gained popularity among photographers and videographers for their ability to capture dynamic shots without the need for manual piloting.

As a drone pilot, it’s important to prioritize safety while operating your equipment. This includes not only following proper flying procedures but also wearing appropriate safety clothing and equipment. Here are some of the available options:

1. High-visibility clothing: Wearing bright, high-visibility clothing can help ensure that you are visible to others while flying your drone. This is especially important if you are flying in areas with other aircraft or near people.
2. Safety glasses: Safety glasses can protect your eyes from debris or other hazards that could fly up during your flight.
3. Gloves: Gloves can provide an extra layer of protection for your hands while handling your equipment, and can also help with grip and control.
4. Hard hat: If you are flying in areas with potential falling hazards, such as construction sites, wearing a hard hat can provide additional protection for your head.
5. Respirator mask: If you are flying in areas with poor air quality or hazardous materials, a respirator mask can protect you from inhaling harmful substances.
6. Earplugs: If you are flying in areas with loud noises, such as near construction sites or industrial areas, wearing earplugs can protect your hearing.
7. Safety harness: If you are flying in areas where there is a risk of falling, such as over water or from a high altitude, wearing a safety harness can provide an additional level of protection.
8. Communication systems: Communication is key when operating a drone, especially when working with a team or in areas with other aircraft. Two-way radios can allow you to communicate with other team members, ground crew, or air traffic control, keeping everyone informed and safe. It’s important to choose radios with a range that is appropriate for your flight area and to ensure that all team members are trained in proper radio communication procedures.
9. Flight area signage: Depending on the location and nature of your flight, it may be necessary to place signage in the surrounding area to inform others of your activity. This can include signs indicating that drone operations are in progress and reminding people to stay clear of the area. Signage can help prevent accidents and ensure that others are aware of potential hazards. Additionally, if you are operating in a public area, it’s important to obtain any necessary permits and follow all regulations regarding signage and notification.

While not all of these items may be necessary for every flight, it’s important to assess the potential risks and hazards of your flight and choose the appropriate safety equipment accordingly. By prioritizing safety and using the right equipment, you can help ensure a successful and safe flight.

3. Develop Your Portfolio

Developing a portfolio of your work is an essential step in attracting clients to your drone photography business. Your portfolio should showcase your skills, experience, and creativity, and demonstrate your ability to capture high-quality aerial photos and videos.

To build your portfolio, you can start by taking photos and videos of various subjects and environments. This could include landscapes, buildings, events, and more. Make sure to capture a range of shots from different angles and altitudes to showcase your versatility.

Once you have a selection of photos and videos, you can curate them into a portfolio that you can share with potential clients. This can be done through a website, social media platforms, or by creating a physical portfolio that you can bring to meetings and presentations.

It’s important to keep your portfolio updated and fresh with new content. As you gain more experience and skills, you can continue to add to your portfolio to showcase your growth and progress as a drone photographer.

Having a strong portfolio can help you stand out from other drone photographers in your area and attract clients who are looking for high-quality and professional services.

A drone photographer’s portfolio should include a range of images that showcase their skills and style. Here are some elements that should be included:

1. A variety of locations: Your portfolio should demonstrate your ability to capture great shots in different environments, such as urban landscapes, natural settings, or indoor spaces.
2. Different lighting conditions: Show your ability to shoot in different lighting conditions, such as during golden hour, in low light, or in bright sunlight.
3. Unique perspectives: Showcase your ability to capture unique and creative angles that are not possible with traditional photography methods.
4. Technical ability: Demonstrate your ability to use advanced camera settings and techniques, such as long exposures or HDR, to create stunning images.
5. Post-processing skills: Include examples of your post-processing skills to showcase how you enhance and edit your images to create the final product.
6. Variety of subjects: Show your ability to shoot a range of subjects, such as landscapes, architecture, events, or people.
7. Consistency: Make sure that your portfolio has a consistent style and quality throughout to showcase your professionalism and attention to detail.
8. Professionalism: Showcase your ability to meet client expectations, deadlines, and project requirements.

Remember, your portfolio is your chance to showcase your skills and creativity as a drone photographer, so choose your best work and make sure that it represents your brand and style effectively.

4. Define Your Target Market

Defining your target market is important in identifying potential clients and tailoring your services to meet their specific needs. Your target market could include real estate agents, construction companies, event planners, or any other businesses or individuals who require aerial photography.

To identify your target market, you can research the industries and businesses in your area that may benefit from drone photography. Consider their specific needs and challenges, and how your services can help address them.

Once you have identified your target market, you can tailor your marketing and outreach efforts to reach them effectively. This could include networking with professionals in the industry, creating targeted marketing campaigns, and building relationships with potential clients.

It’s important to differentiate your services from those of your competitors by highlighting your unique value proposition. This could include your expertise in a specific type of photography, your ability to capture difficult shots, or your commitment to delivering high-quality results.

By understanding your target market and tailoring your services to their needs, you can position your drone photography business for success and attract a steady stream of clients who are willing to pay for your services.

5. Set Your Pricing

Setting your pricing strategy is an important part of starting a drone photography business. You need to consider the costs of your equipment, insurance, and any other expenses that you will incur while running your business. Additionally, you should research your competition to see what prices they are offering and ensure that your prices are competitive.

One way to set your pricing is to calculate your cost per hour of flying time. This can help you determine how much you need to charge to cover your costs and make a profit. Factors to consider when calculating your cost per hour include the cost of the drone, batteries, insurance, maintenance, and any other expenses associated with your business.

Another pricing strategy is to charge by the job. You can determine your pricing based on the scope of the job, such as the duration of the flight, the number of photos or videos required, and any additional services that the client requests.

It’s important to be transparent with your pricing and provide your clients with a clear breakdown of the costs. You should also be prepared to negotiate with clients, especially if you are just starting out and building your portfolio.

Ultimately, the key to setting your pricing is to find a balance between covering your costs and making a profit while offering competitive prices that will attract clients. It’s important to regularly review and adjust your pricing as needed to ensure that your business remains profitable.

6. Market Your Business

Marketing your drone photography business is crucial to attracting clients and growing your business. Here are some effective ways to market your business:

1. Build a website: A website is an essential tool for any business, including a drone photography business. It allows potential clients to learn more about your services and see samples of your work. Your website should be easy to navigate, visually appealing, and mobile-friendly.
2. Use social media: Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are great ways to showcase your work and connect with potential clients. Share your photos and videos regularly, engage with your followers, and use relevant hashtags to increase your visibility.
3. Attend industry events: Attend events and trade shows related to photography and videography to connect with other professionals in your industry and potential clients. This is an opportunity to showcase your work and network with other professionals.
4. Offer promotions: Consider offering promotions or discounts to new clients to incentivize them to try your services. This can be a great way to attract new business and generate word-of-mouth referrals.
5. Build partnerships: Look for opportunities to partner with other businesses that complement your services. For example, you could partner with a wedding planner to offer drone photography services for weddings.
6. Invest in paid advertising: Consider investing in paid advertising, such as Google Ads or Facebook Ads, to increase your visibility and reach a larger audience.

Marketing your drone photography business is an ongoing process, so it’s important to regularly evaluate your marketing strategies and adjust them as needed. By using a variety of marketing tactics and staying active in your industry, you can attract new clients and grow your business.

7. Counting Your Costs

The cost to become a drone photographer can vary depending on several factors such as the equipment, training, and certification required. Here are some potential costs to consider:

1. Drone: The cost of a drone plus the many accessories available can range from a several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the model and features you require.
2. Certification: To operate a drone for commercial purposes, you will need a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) in the United States, which requires passing an exam. The cost of the exam (at the time of this writing) is $160, and you may also need to pay for training or study materials.
3. Insurance: Drone insurance can help protect you from liability and damage to your equipment. The cost of insurance can vary depending on your coverage needs.
4. Software and Editing Tools: You will need software and editing tools to process and edit your aerial footage. The cost of these tools can range from free to several hundred dollars.

Overall, the cost to become a drone photographer can range from a few thousand to several tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the equipment and services you require. It is important to consider these costs when creating a business plan and setting your pricing strategy.

8. Practical Business Start-Up Fundamentals

Starting a small business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor, but it also requires careful planning and preparation. One of the most important steps in starting a small business is ensuring that it is established legally. Here are the key steps involved in the process of legally starting a small business:

1. Determine your business structure: The first step in legally starting a small business is to determine the structure of your business. Will it be a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation? Each structure has its own legal requirements and implications, so it’s important to research and choose the structure that best suits your business.
2. Register your business name: Once you have chosen a business structure, you need to register your business name. This involves checking if the name is available and then registering it with the appropriate state or local government agency.
3. Obtain necessary permits and licenses: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain various permits and licenses at the local, state, and federal levels. This may include zoning permits, business licenses, tax permits, and more.
4. Obtain an EIN: An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number that the IRS assigns to businesses for tax purposes. If you plan on hiring employees or opening a business bank account, you will need to obtain an EIN.
5. Set up bookkeeping and accounting: As a small business owner, it’s important to keep accurate records of your finances. This involves setting up bookkeeping and accounting systems to track income, expenses, and taxes.
6. Obtain insurance: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need various types of insurance to protect yourself and your assets. This may include general liability insurance, professional liability insurance, and more.
7. Comply with labor laws: If you plan on hiring employees, you need to comply with various labor laws, including minimum wage laws, anti-discrimination laws, and more.

Overall, legally starting a small business involves careful planning, research, and compliance with various legal requirements. By following these steps and seeking professional advice as needed, you can ensure that your business is established legally and set up for success.

The Takeaway

Starting a drone photography business can be a challenging but rewarding journey. With the right equipment, skills, and marketing strategy, you can turn your passion for photography and technology into a profitable business. As the demand for aerial photography and videography continues to grow, there has never been a better time to enter this exciting and dynamic field.

Remember to prioritize safety, stay up-to-date on regulations, and continue to develop your skills and portfolio. With persistence and hard work, you can build a successful drone photography business and create stunning aerial imagery that will leave your clients in awe.

So, take the first step and start turning your dream into a reality today!

Be smart, safe, and forever fly!

If you have any questions, let us know! If you’d like to hire us, you can get more information here.

Written by: Tony Marino, MBA – FAA Certified Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot and Chief Business Strategist at Aerial Northwest

Frequently Asked Questions

References

Bazilian, E. (2013, January 9). A brief history of aerial photography. The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/01/a-brief-history-of-aerial-photography/266768/

Khanna, M., Kumar, S., & Ramesh, S. (2019). A systematic review of the use of drones in business. International Journal of Information Management, 46, 156-166. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2018.11.014

Kumar, S., & Khanna, M. (2019). Understanding the potential of drones in supply chain management: A framework and research agenda. International Journal of Production Research, 57(5), 1361-1380. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207543.2018.1546825

Zhu, Y., Liu, H., & Sun, Y. (2020). Opportunities and challenges for the application of drones in business: A review. Journal of Cleaner Production, 271, 122688. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2020.122688

Lämsä, A.-M., Kinnunen, T., & Viitanen, K. (2018). Business opportunities for drones in construction industry: A systematic literature review. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 24(5), 369-379. https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2018.6237

Javed, A., Khan, M. R., & Chaudhry, S. A. (2021). Drone delivery service in the e-commerce industry: A review of opportunities and challenges. Journal of Business Research, 134, 571-580. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2021.01.020

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