YDQA: Ep 3 - How do I get started with FPV drones?

In this episode of "Your Drone Questions. Answered," host John Dickow tackles the common question: how much to charge clients for drone video services and licensing? He's joined by FAA certified drone videographer and photographer, Kevin Olson.

Kevin emphasizes that pricing depends on various factors, including experience level and geographical location. Starting with free work to build a portfolio is common, but as one progresses, pricing should reflect the value of time and expertise.

For fresh drone video shoots, rates might range from $100-$150 initially. However, factors like travel, editing time, and complexity of the project should be considered. It's essential not to undervalue oneself, ensuring fair compensation for time and effort.

When it comes to licensing existing drone footage, Kevin shares insights from his own experience. Prices can vary widely based on usage, clientele, and negotiation skills. For instance, licensing a short clip to NBC earned him $1000, demonstrating the importance of valuing one's work appropriately.

Moreover, Kevin highlights the significance of networking within the drone community, sharing insights and collaborating with fellow professionals rather than seeing them as competitors. This collaboration can lead to future opportunities and referrals.

In conclusion, Kevin advises drone enthusiasts not to undervalue their skills and to have confidence in pricing their services accordingly. With proper valuation and networking, one can build a successful drone videography business.

Welcome back to another episode of Your Drone Questions Answered! In this episode, John Dickow and David Young tackle the common misconception that drones can't be flown in national parks. David breaks down the legal pathway to flying drones in these protected areas, shedding light on the exceptions outlined in Policy Memorandum 14-05 issued by the United States Department of the Interior National Park Service.

https://www.nps.gov/subjects/policy/upload/PM_14-05.pdf

Learn about the detailed process of obtaining a Special Park Uses Permit, the criteria park superintendents consider, and the essential conditions drone operators must adhere to for safe and legal operations within national parks. From FAA regulations to environmental considerations, David provides valuable insights for drone enthusiasts looking to fly responsibly in these scenic locations.

If you've ever wondered about the possibility of flying drones in national parks, this episode is a must-watch! Have your own drone-related question? Send it over to ydqa.io or join the discussion in the Drone Launch Connect community.

Welcome back to another episode of Your Drone Questions Answered! In this episode, John Dickow from Drone Launch Academy is joined by Alex Harris, a videographer, photographer, and drone pilot, to delve into the world of ND filters and their application in videography and photography.

Have you ever wondered what ND filters are and how they're used? Alex breaks it down in simple terms, likening them to sunglasses for your drone's camera. He explains the significance of ND filters in controlling exposure, especially in bright daylight conditions, to achieve smoother and more cinematic motion blur in videos.

From understanding the basics of ND filters to practical tips on using them effectively, Alex shares valuable insights for both beginners and experienced drone enthusiasts. Learn why ND filters are essential for video work and how they differ from polarizer filters. Plus, discover practical advice for aspiring drone videographers, including the importance of planning your shots and creating local town reels to showcase your skills and attract potential clients.

If you're looking to elevate your drone videography and photography skills, this episode is a must-watch! Tune in for expert advice, practical tips, and insightful discussions on all things drones.

Got a burning question about drones? Submit it at YDQA.io or join the Drone Launch Connect community to engage with fellow drone enthusiasts and experts. Keep soaring high in the sky with Your Drone Questions Answered!

In this episode of Your Drone Questions Answered, John Dickow and David Young tackle the topic of drones for kids. 

David, a father of five and founder of Drone Launch Academy, shares his insights and experiences on this matter. They discuss rules and regulations for kids flying drones, including the TRUST exam mandated by the FAA. 

David also provides practical tips based on his firsthand experiences, such as starting with indoor flying to avoid wind issues and the importance of avoiding trees. They delve into affordable drone options on platforms like Amazon, emphasizing the simplicity of control and the need for parental supervision. 

Additionally, David shares a fun game involving Nerf guns and drones. Whether you're a parent considering a drone for your child or a curious enthusiast, this episode offers valuable information and entertaining anecdotes. 

Tune in for expert advice and exciting drone discussions! If you have any drone-related queries, don't hesitate to submit them through ydqa.io or the Drone Launch Connect community. 

Welcome back to Your Drone Questions Answered! In this captivating episode, John Dickow is joined once again by Dave Downey, President and Senior Events Specialist at BCC Live, as they delve deep into the fascinating world of live drone broadcasting. Get ready to embark on an insightful journey as Dave shares invaluable insights, strategies, and tips garnered from his extensive experience in the field.

Discover how drones are ingeniously integrated into live broadcasts, elevating the viewer experience with breathtaking aerial perspectives. From sporting events to scenic vistas, Dave unveils the intricate process of synchronizing camera feeds, transmitting drone signals, and incorporating dynamic shots seamlessly into live productions.

Gain a profound understanding of the technology behind successful live drone operations, including the selection of streaming platforms, broadcasting software, and strategies for managing latency. Explore the crucial role of battery management in live broadcasting, as Dave sheds light on effective strategies for mitigating risks and optimizing performance.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, this episode offers a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. Join us as we unravel the complexities and nuances of live drone broadcasting, and unlock the potential to elevate your aerial storytelling to new heights.

Welcome back to another episode of "Your Drone Questions Answered" where John Dickow, alongside David Young, founder of Drone Launch Academy, tackles a critical topic – the rules and regulations surrounding the consumption of alcohol and drugs while operating drones

David begins by emphasizing the potential dangers of combining drones with substances like alcohol or drugs, emphasizing that such a combination is never a good idea. He proceeds to break down the regulations for commercial drone operators under Part 107, drawing attention to the specific provisions outlined in section 107.27. These regulations encompass factors such as the time frame within which a pilot must abstain from alcohol before operating a drone, the prohibition of flying under the influence, and the restriction on using drugs that affect judgment or coordination.

David delves into various scenarios to illustrate how these regulations may apply in real-life situations. For instance, he discusses the implications of having even a single drink within eight hours of drone operation, the risks associated with having a blood alcohol level of 0.04 or higher, and the consequences of appearing under the influence of drugs or alcohol during a flight.

Transitioning to the recreational side of drone flying, David introduces the 44809 exemption, which governs model aircraft and recreational drones. He points out the importance of operating under the rules and policies of model aircraft organizations, such as the Academy of Model Aeronautics. Even in recreational settings, the administrator of the FAA retains the authority to enforce actions against individuals operating drones in a manner that endangers the national airspace system.

The episode also touches upon the potential penalties and fines for violating these regulations, emphasizing that fines could apply to both recreational and commercial drone operators. David stresses the severity of consequences, especially when mixing drugs or alcohol with drone operation, urging all drone enthusiasts to prioritize safety and adhere to established guidelines.

John and David discuss the potential loss of licenses and the release of medical records to the FAA, highlighting the gravity of breaking these regulations. They emphasize the importance of understanding and following the rules to ensure safe and responsible drone flying.

Welcome back to another episode of Your Drone Questions Answered! In this episode, John Dickow explores the question of which drones capture the highest quality video. Joined by Dave Downey, President of BCC Live, they delve into the world of drone videography.

Dave shares insights into his background at Boulder County Communications, specializing in outdoor sporting events. Drones have become essential in capturing dynamic shots for live broadcasts, offering unique perspectives that were challenging to achieve before.

The discussion covers the evolution of drone technology over the years, with Dave highlighting the importance of understanding the specific requirements for the type of video you aim to capture. Factors like resolution, frame rate, and the purpose of the footage play a crucial role in choosing the right drone.

Dave recommends the DJI Mini Pro 3 (or Mini 3 Pro) for its balance of features and cost, emphasizing the importance of considering your needs and budget when selecting a drone. He touches on the advantages of shooting in 4K, allowing for flexibility in post-production editing.

Throughout the conversation, Dave stresses the value of community engagement, citing social channels and Facebook groups as valuable resources for learning from real users' experiences. He encourages aspiring drone enthusiasts to research, set goals, and persevere in pursuing their passion.

Stay tuned and see you in the sky!

Welcome back to another episode of Your Drone Questions Answered! In this episode, John Dickow interviews Kendall Marquardt, a certified golf course superintendent and founder of Precision Drone Mapping Services. They delve into the world of drone footage editing, discussing the recommended software and sharing valuable insights.

🚁 Guest: Kendall Marquardt
📷 Topic: Best Editing Software for Drone Footage

🔍 Content Highlights:
Introduction, Kendall's Background and Entry into Drone Work, Editing Software Preferences, Open Source vs. Apple Ecosystem, Workflow and Editing Philosophy, Advice for Aspiring Drone Entrepreneurs, Strategic Approaches and Networking, Wrapping Up

🛠️ Editing Software Mentioned:
KdenLive, OpenShotGL, iMovie, DaVinci Resolve

🎥 Footage Showcase:
Fulton Church Sermon Video, Zen of the Golf Course

📝 Tips for Drone Enthusiasts:
Don't be afraid of the process; others have succeeded, and you can too. Follow your passion and let the process unfold. Consider personal experiences and skills when carving your niche. Embrace a "why not" attitude in pursuing your goals.

Welcome back to another episode of Your Drone Questions Answered! In today's episode, John and David Young, the founder of Drone Launch Academy, discuss some must-have apps for both recreational and commercial drone pilots. The apps are categorized into flight automation, flight planning, insurance, and editing.

Starting with flight automation, David introduces the Litchi app, a versatile tool for programming your drone's flight path and camera movements. Another powerful app is DroneLink, which goes beyond Litchi, offering advanced features like inspections and mapping. Drone Deploy and Pix4D Capture are also mentioned for creating lifelike models and maps.

Moving on to flight planning, David recommends the Aloft app for checking airspace rules and regulations. UAV Forecast is highlighted for assessing wind conditions, crucial for safe drone flights. Additionally, David briefly mentions a new app called Drone Assist Flight Planning.

When it comes to insurance, Skywatch AI stands out as a reliable option, offering on-demand liability coverage tailored to your specific needs. What's unique is that the app provides a safe driver score, potentially leading to reduced insurance costs based on your piloting skills.

Lastly, David touches on video editing apps for those interested in cinematic footage. CapCut is recommended as a popular and user-friendly mobile video editor. DJI's own version, Light Cut, is mentioned, along with Adobe Lightroom for editing photos.

John and David wrap up the episode by emphasizing the dynamic nature of the drone app market and encourage listeners to share their favorite apps for future discussions.

If you have a burning drone-related question, head over to ydqa.io or the Drone Launch Connect community, and we'll ensure you get the answers you need. Until then, happy flying, and we'll see you in the sky!

Welcome back to another episode of "Your Drone Questions Answered" with John Dickow from Drone Launch Academy. Today's question comes from a client dealing with construction near railway lines, seeking precise measurements to ensure track stability during excavation. The client currently uses Trimble Total Station devices and wonders if drones could provide the required millimeter-level accuracy. Zachary Riddell, Southwest Business Development Manager and Certified Mapping Specialist at Cooper Aerial, joins the discussion.

Zachary shares insights into the challenges of achieving millimeter accuracy with drones due to factors like motion, sensor limitations, and airborne GPS. He emphasizes the importance of clean sensors and lenses for accurate data collection. Discussing the specific scenario of monitoring railway tracks, Zachary mentions that current drone technology falls short of achieving the one to nine millimeter accuracy required by the client.

The conversation delves into the technical aspects of sensors, cameras, and LiDAR for mapping purposes. Zachary advises aspiring professionals in the drone mapping industry to prioritize safety, meticulous planning, and adherence to checklists. He emphasizes the significance of following standards set by organizations like the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS).

Listeners are encouraged to submit their own questions through ydqa.io or the Drone Launch Connect community. As the episode concludes, John expresses gratitude to Zachary and invites him back for future discussions on mapping-related topics.