Drones used to be advanced gadgets reserved only for tech enthusiasts, but not anymore. Now, there are almost 871,000 registered drones, and more than half are for recreational purposes. These days, people use drones for multiple things, from deliveries to tracking wildlife, and of course, photography.
Drone Photography
Drone photography is becoming one of the most popular photography trends around. Drones allow photographers to take a wide variety of aerial shots. And because of this, professional wedding photographers have begun incorporating drone photography into their services. You can even invest in your own. Just be sure to research what you’ll need for drone photography and learn the basics. Read up on different features and specs to find the right model for you. That being said, it’s worth noting that not all drones have built-in cameras. For example, the DJI FPV Drone comes with a 4K 60 fps camera built into its central structure. On the other hand, the 3DR Solo Drone just has a space where you can install a camera.
When it comes to photography, it’s better to purchase a drone without a camera, so you have the freedom to attach your own. With the right drone camera, you can get pristine photographs of your wedding day — from overhead snapshots to sweeping panoramas of the surrounding landscape. You can equip it with an Autel Robotics Pro Gimbal Camera, which is easy to install and can even be controlled with the Autel mobile app. Alternatively, if you’re looking for professional-quality photographs, opt for the DJI Zenmuse X7. It comes with four different lenses, all of which boast top-notch image capture quality. Additionally, it’s engineered so that you can easily switch between lenses, making for easier handling.
Whatever drone cameras and accessories you choose, it’s just as important to plan for the perfect shots. So, here are five tips to help you have a smooth drone photography experience.
Tips for Getting the Best Wedding Drone Photographs
1. Check drone permits. First and foremost, you should check local regulations regarding drone usage. These vary depending on state and city. Also, talk to the manager of the wedding venue to ask for permission in advance. Accomplishing these task early will ensure you aren’t rushing around to get things done closer to the big day.
2. Stay true to the theme. Remember to choose the right photography style for your wedding beforehand. And whenever you take photos, always keep your wedding theme in mind. This way, the photo sets are stylish and cohesive.
3. Use the drone in outdoor locations. It may be tempting to take indoor photographs with the drone, but this can prove risky, especially if the venue has ceiling fixtures. So, it’s best to take aerial photos outside. Some of the best places to snap a pic include beaches and open fields. Just watch out for tree branches or low-hanging wires.
4. Keep an eye on the sky. If your drone isn’t waterproof, always check on the weather because if it rains, you’ll have to put the drone away. You also shouldn’t fly your drone if there’s a strong wind, as this can interfere with your flight course and end up damaging the drone. So, check the weather forecast on your big day and be ready to put the drone away if the weather turns sour.
5. Get drone insurance. Last but not least, get insurance for your drone in case of any unforeseen damages. No matter how skilled you or your assigned drone operator is, accidents can still happen. Given this, it’s a good idea to invest in drone insurance, so you know your gadget is safe.
Drone photography allows for more opportunities — new angles and wider perspectives. So, it’s no wonder the practice became a trend. As drones grow more and more accessible, the drone photography trend will only continue to gain popularity.
Written by Allison Marie Colbert
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