Pros and Cons of Drone Videography

Drone photography is quickly growing in popularity among casual and commercial photographers alike. However only FAA certified operators can commercially operate. If you’re wondering why, then you probably haven’t seen the final results of drone videography.

Drone technology offers a brand new outlook on scenes that we have viewed hundreds of times. Thanks to its innovative and hi-tech features, more businesses and companies are hiring professional drone videographers to use the latest photography technique.

But like every other technology, drones come with a few drawbacks. Drone manufacturing brands are continually working to overcome the minor flaws of today’s drone cameras by upgrading their products.

Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of drone videography.

Pros of Drone Videography

Drone cameras provide a bird’s eye view of outdoor concerts and events. Imagine covering a wedding ceremony from the top. In fact, these handy tools are great for shooting destination weddings. But some drone pilots can also capture footage indoors, for instance, in a chapel.

Drones allow photographers and videographers to take creative shots. These hi-tech photography tools come equipped with upgraded features and high quality lenses so you can capture the best shots from all angles.

Taking pan shots becomes incredibly easier with drones, and you can stay in the hover mode and just rotate your drone across the landscape of your subject to get a perfect pan shot. There are several other shots you can easily take with a drone, such as tracking shot or pedestal shot.

Instagram celebrities and social media use the technology to promote their accounts. With drones around, you never need a selfie stick. Whether you want to take stills or shoot live footage, your drone is always ready to give you high quality and vivid shots.

News organizations previously relied on helicopters to gather information and report live. With drone videography, you can eliminate the need of using aircrafts for taking photos and videos. You get real-time footage and excellent stills, without having to worry about safety.

Cons of Drone Videography

While drones are also used indoors, these tools work best in outdoor spaces. Ask any drone operator and they will tell you that the best way to use a drone is shooting outdoors.

If you don’t know a location well, your expensive drone can hit tall obstacles, including trees and poles. Always survey the area for potential hazards before starting the shoot. Always consider if you’re going to need drone insurance for your equipment or the location you are shooting.

Drones make significant noise. You need to check out if the venue you’re about to cover will allow you to use noisy videography equipment.

Drone cameras do not operate in snow, rain or strong winds. Make sure and plan your project accordingly and be sure and check the weather a few days ahead of your shoot.

If your drone weighs up to a certain limit, you need to register your model with the FAA. Failure to do will result in penalties. People who don’t have good hand-eye coordination may find it difficult to use a professional drone. Don’t consider the drone as your little RC Helicopter that only needs some basic skills to fly. If you plan to fly commercially and charge for your time, you must be FAA certified.

Final Thoughts

Although the challenges of using a drone may scare you, the pros outweigh the cons. Drones are incredibly amazing photography equipment which are all set to transform conventional aerial videography.