How to Be Drone Photography Professional - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 8, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Drone photography is quickly becoming a popular and professional choice for capturing aerial photographs. The use of drones enables photographers to capture stunning aerial perspectives in landscape, nature and urban settings. With improved camera technology and more sophisticated drones, it is now possible to capture quality professional images from previously inaccessible angles.

As a result, drone photography has sparked a revolution in the way photographers take pictures, allowing them to capture stunning views from heights that previously could not be achieved with traditional cameras. This has opened up new possibilities for creative photography, as well as provided an efficient and cost-effective way to document real estate or inspect industrial sites. the use of drones has also enabled photographers to capture stunning aerial footage of natural disasters, conflicts and other news events, providing an unparalleled insight into events that would otherwise be difficult to capture.

Steps How to Become

Get the right equipment. Look into the different types of drones, cameras, and other equipment that are available for drone photography. Research the best options for you and your budget.
Learn the rules and regulations. Make sure you understand all of the relevant laws and regulations pertaining to drone photography in your area.
Get certified. Consider getting a drone pilot certification, if available in your area. This can help you prove your knowledge and expertise to potential employers and clients.
Practice, practice, practice. Spend time flying your drone and taking photos. The more practice you get, the better youll become.
Build your portfolio. As you become more experienced with drone photography, start building your portfolio. Include photos from different angles and lighting conditions to show potential employers and clients what you can do.
Network and market yourself. Reach out to local businesses, organizations, and individuals who may be interested in hiring a drone photographer. Let them know about your services and show them examples of your work.
Build a website. Creating a website will help you market yourself as a professional drone photographer. It should include your portfolio, contact information, and a description of the services you offer.

Keeping up to date and efficient as a professional drone photographer requires a dedication to learning and staying informed. To ensure success, it is essential to stay abreast of the latest developments in drone technology, photography techniques, and FAA regulations. Keeping informed of the latest trends can help photographers remain competitive and provide high-quality services to their clients.

having a steady workflow and staying organized can help keep projects on track and ensure that deadlines are met. Finally, building relationships with industry experts, such as drone manufacturers and other photographers, can help to gain new insights, learn from others experiences, and create a network of support. With these strategies in place, professional drone photographers can be successful in this growing field.

You may want to check Drone Engineer, Drone Maintenance Technician, and Drone Data Analyst for alternative.

Job Description

Aerial Photographer: Responsible for capturing aerial photography of landscapes, buildings, and other structures from a drone or remote-controlled aircraft.
Drone Pilot: Responsible for operating drones to capture aerial photographs and videos.
Content Editor: Responsible for editing the aerial photographs and videos captured by the drones for professional use.
Aerial Videographer: Responsible for capturing professional videos from a drone or remote-controlled aircraft.
Drone Maintenance Technician: Responsible for maintaining and repairing drones, including replacing parts and troubleshooting issues.
Drone Inspector: Responsible for inspecting drones for safety and quality assurance purposes.
Drone Flight Instructor: Responsible for teaching others how to safely operate drones and capture aerial photos and videos.
Drone Data Analyst: Responsible for analyzing data collected by drones, such as aerial photos and videos, in order to gain insights into a project or objective.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of Drone Operating Regulations and Safety Standards
In-depth understanding of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Systems
Expertise in Camera Operation and Photography Techniques
Technical proficiency in Post-Production Software
Knowledge of Lighting, Framing and Composition Principles
Ability to Follow Flight Patterns for Aerial Shots
Familiarity with Federal Aviation Administration Rules
Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Ability to Work Independently and as Part of a Team
Ability to Problem-Solve and Troubleshoot Issues

Having a drone photography professional on your team is essential for creating stunning photos and videos from unique angles. Being able to safely and effectively operate a drone requires a variety of skills, from technical know-how to creative thinking. Knowledge of the latest drone technology and aviation regulations is essential for a successful shoot, as is an understanding of the angles and heights that will produce the best results.

having a good eye for composition and lighting is an invaluable asset for capturing breathtaking photographs from the sky. Furthermore, having an experienced drone photographer can help ensure that any footage or photos taken are safe and in line with local laws. In conclusion, having a knowledgeable drone photography professional on your team is key for producing stunning visuals with minimal risk.

Drone Manufacture Representative, Drone Designer, and Drone System Administrator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in drone photography?
What challenges have you faced in drone photography and how did you overcome them?
How do you ensure safety and compliance with FAA regulations when operating a drone?
What steps do you take to ensure the best quality images and videos?
How do you keep up with trends and technology in the field of drone photography?
How do you go about choosing the right equipment for a project?
How do you establish a good working relationship with clients?
How do you handle post-production tasks such as editing and retouching?
What do you consider to be the most important elements of successful drone photography?
How do you stay organized when shooting multiple projects at once?

Common Tools in Industry

Drone. A flying unmanned aerial vehicle that can capture aerial photographs and videos. (eg: DJI Mavic 2 Pro)
Camera. A device used to capture still images or videos. (eg: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV)
Tripod. A three-legged support for a camera, used to take steady shots. (eg: Manfrotto MT055XPRO3)
Telephoto Lens. A lens used to capture distant objects in detail. (eg: Canon EF 70-200mm f/2. 8L IS III USM)
ND Filters. Neutral density filters used to reduce the amount of light entering the lens. (eg: Hoya 77mm Pro1 Digital ND Filter)
Gimbal. A stabilizing device used to keep the camera steady during flight. (eg: DJI Ronin-S)
Editing Software. A computer program used to edit and enhance photos and videos. (eg: Adobe Lightroom and Premiere Pro)

Professional Organizations to Know

The International Drone Photography Association (IDPA)
The Professional Society of Drone Journalists (PSDJ)
The Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)
The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI)
The Small UAV Coalition
The National Press Photographers Association (NPPA)
The International Association of Professional Drone Photographers (IAPDP)
The Professional Aerial Photographers Association (PAPA)
The Drone User Group Network (DUGN)
The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems Association (UAVSA)

We also have Drone Flight Test Engineer, Drone Flight Safety Officer, and Drone Flight Instructor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). A remote-controlled aircraft that is used for aerial photography, surveillance, and other services.
Aerial Photography. The practice of taking photographs from the air, usually from an aircraft or drone.
Drone. A small, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) used for aerial photography and other services.
Aerial Mapping. The process of creating detailed maps from aerial photographs taken from an aircraft or drone.
Remote Sensing. The use of cameras and other sensors to detect, measure, and record information about an area from a distance.
Photogrammetry. The use of aerial photographs to create maps and 3D models.
GIS (Geographic Information Systems). A system that collects and stores data about geographic features and locations.
GPS (Global Positioning System). A satellite-based navigation system that provides precise location data and can be used to track a drones location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is drone photography?

Drone photography is the use of a remotely piloted aerial vehicle, or drone, to capture still images or videos from the sky.

What equipment do I need for professional drone photography?

Professional drone photography requires a drone with high-quality camera, a remote controller, a set of spare batteries, and an appropriate lens for the type of photography you wish to do.

What are the rules and regulations for professional drone photography?

Professional drone photography is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and requires special authorization for commercial operations. Depending on the area, there may be additional local regulations to consider.

Are there any safety considerations when using drones for photography?

Yes, there are several safety considerations when using drones for photography. Always fly in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, ensure that the drone is in good condition, be aware of your surroundings, and never fly your drone near other aircraft.

What is the best way to learn the basics of drone photography?

The best way to learn the basics of drone photography is to take a beginner's course from a certified instructor. These courses usually cover topics such as drone safety, regulations, flight planning, and how to capture high-quality photos and videos.