How to Be Drone Video Pilot - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 2, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Drone video piloting has become increasingly popular in recent years due to the many advantages it offers for videographers and photographers. By operating a drone, a pilot can take aerial shots that would otherwise be impossible to capture, enabling them to create unique and exciting visuals. This increased access to the sky has allowed filmmakers to create stunning visuals that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to capture without a drone.

drones can provide greater flexibility in filming locations, as they can fly over areas that are hard to reach by traditional filming methods. Finally, drones can help reduce costs associated with filming as they require less manpower, equipment and space than traditional filming methods. As a result, more and more filmmakers are turning to drone video pilots to capture their projects and create truly unique visuals.

Steps How to Become

Research drone and camera equipment. Understand what type of drone and camera equipment is available on the market and what would be best suited for your needs.
Obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate. You will need a Remote Pilot Certificate administered by the FAA in order to legally operate a drone for commercial purposes.
Choose a specialty. Decide what type of video you would like to specialize in, such as real estate, weddings, events, etc.
Practice flying. Spend time practicing with your drone to gain experience and confidence in flying.
Learn how to edit video. Video editing is an important skill for drone video pilots to have. Learn how to use video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.
Market yourself. Create a portfolio of your work and start networking with potential clients to get your name out there.
Obtain liability insurance. As a drone video pilot, you will need to obtain liability insurance to protect yourself in case of any accidents or damages.

In order to become a reliable and efficient drone video pilot, knowledge of the drone's capabilities and limitations is essential. Having a clear understanding of the area and airspace regulations in which you are operating is also key. having the right equipment and following proper safety protocol is critical for a successful mission.

Knowing how to properly inspect your drone, review weather conditions, and maintain communication with air traffic control are all important components to ensure a safe and successful flight. the combination of these factors will make a pilot more reliable and efficient in their work.

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Job Description

Lead Drone Video Pilot: Responsible for providing safe and efficient drone video services, including operating and maintaining the drone, as well as editing and delivering the footage.
Drone Video Engineer: Responsible for designing and integrating systems for drone video production, such as camera systems, GPS navigation systems, wireless communication systems, and autopilots.
Drone Video Coordinator: Responsible for coordinating all aspects of drone video production, including scheduling shoots, coordinating personnel, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Drone Video Technician: Responsible for setting up and maintaining the drone video equipment and troubleshooting any technical issues.
Drone Video Editor: Responsible for editing and finalizing the drone video footage to create the final product.
Flight Instructor: Responsible for providing training to pilots on drone operation, safety procedures, and flight regulations.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of FAA regulations and guidelines for UAV operations.
Technical expertise with the drones and related equipment, including the ability to troubleshoot hardware and software issues.
Understanding of how to safely and efficiently control the drone during flight.
Ability to read and interpret aerial maps.
Understanding of the principles of aerodynamics and aircraft dynamics.
Skilled in the use of video editing software to produce quality videos.
Knowledge of local airspace regulations, weather conditions, and other factors that affect drone operations.
Ability to identify potential hazards and take necessary precautions to ensure safe flight.
Excellent communication skills to coordinate with other pilots, ground crew, and clients.
Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects and maintain detailed records of flight data.

Being a successful drone video pilot requires a variety of skills. The most important skill to have is having a thorough understanding of the various regulations and laws that govern the use of drones. A comprehensive knowledge of local and federal regulations is necessary to ensure the safety and legal compliance of the pilot's operations.

a drone video pilot must have excellent technical and mechanical skills in order to properly operate and maintain their drones, as well as troubleshoot any problems that may arise. Good communication skills are also essential, as the pilot must be able to effectively convey where they plan to fly and any potential hazards. Finally, pilots should have strong visual creativity and storytelling skills, allowing them to create compelling video content for their clients.

All of these skills, when combined, give pilots the competitive edge they need to succeed in the industry.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with drones?
What qualifications do you have for operating a drone?
How familiar are you with FAA regulations and guidelines for flying a drone?
What challenges have you faced while flying a drone?
What drone models are you most experienced in operating?
How do you ensure safety when flying a drone?
What aerial video and photography equipment do you use?
How do you troubleshoot issues when flying a drone?
What techniques have you developed for shooting aerial video and photography?
What strategies do you use to keep up-to-date on drone technologies and trends?

Common Tools in Industry

Drone. A remote-controlled, unmanned aerial vehicle that can be used to capture photos and videos from the air. (eg: DJI Mavic Pro)
Gimbals. A motorized stabilizer that allows a camera to remain level while in motion. (eg: Zhiyun Crane 2)
Editing Software. A computer program used to edit video footage. (eg: Adobe Premiere Pro)
Motion Control System. A device that allows a camera to perform pre-programmed movements. (eg: Syrp Genie Mini)
Autopilot System. A computerized system that can be used to control a drone or other vehicle automatically. (eg: DJI Flight Autopilot)
Visual Effects Software. A computer program used to create visual effects for video footage. (eg: Adobe After Effects)

Professional Organizations to Know

Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)
Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI)
Small UAV Coalition
Unmanned Safety Institute
Unmanned Aircraft Systems International (UASI)
International Society of Air Safety Investigators (ISASI)
Special Operations Aviation Association (SOAA)
Airborne International Remote Operations Pilots Association (AIROPA)
Commercial Drone Alliance
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)

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Common Important Terms

UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle). An aircraft that is operated without a human pilot onboard.
FPV (First-Person View). A type of drone flight that allows the pilot to see what the drone sees in real time.
Drone. A type of UAV that can be remotely controlled or flown autonomously through software-controlled flight plans.
Flight Controller. A component of a drone that controls its flight operations, including navigation and positioning.
GPS (Global Positioning System). A satellite-based system that provides accurate location and time information for navigation.
Remote Control. A device used to remotely control a drone from the ground.
Autopilot. A system that allows a drone to fly without direct control from the pilot.
Camera Gimbal. A device that stabilizes a camera mounted on a drone and allows for smooth movement during flight.
Range. The distance between the pilot and the drone while it is in flight.
Line-of-Sight. A requirement for safe flight, meaning that the pilot must always be able to see the drone while it is in flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What certifications are required to become a Drone Video Pilot?

In the United States, drone video pilots must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This requires passing an FAA-approved aeronautical knowledge test, a background check, and being at least 16 years old.

How much does a Drone Video Pilot typically earn?

This depends on several factors, including the type of work, the pilot's experience level, and the region in which they operate. On average, drone pilots earn between $50 - $100 per hour.

What equipment is needed to be a Drone Video Pilot?

A drone video pilot needs a remotely piloted aircraft (drone) that meets FAA safety requirements, along with a remote transmitter, batteries, and other necessary accessories. Additionally, they need a laptop or tablet to edit their footage, as well as video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro.

What safety regulations do Drone Video Pilots need to follow?

Drone video pilots must follow FAA regulations, which include keeping the drone within visual line of sight at all times, avoiding other aircraft and people, and not flying over crowds or at night. Additionally, they must be aware of local laws and regulations that may affect their operations.

How do I become a Drone Video Pilot?

To become a drone video pilot, you need to obtain the necessary certifications from the FAA, purchase the necessary equipment, and become knowledgeable about safety regulations. Additionally, you should gain experience by practicing in an open area and reading up on the latest drone technology and techniques.