Drone photography has revolutionized how photographers capture images, offering a unique perspective that was once impossible without expensive equipment and extensive experience. With the advent of affordable and easy-to-use drones, anyone with the necessary training and certification can capture stunning aerial shots. In this blog post, we’ll explore how drone photography has changed what a typical professional photographer can offer their clients once they have their FAA Part 107 certification.
FAA Part 107 Certification
Before diving into how drone photography can benefit clients, it’s essential to understand the FAA Part 107 certification. This certification is required for anyone who wants to operate a drone for commercial purposes, including photography. To obtain the certificate, individuals must pass an aeronautical knowledge test and meet other requirements set forth by the FAA.
Commercial Drone Flying Without a Pilot’s License
- The civil penalties for flying commercially without obtaining a remote pilot’s certificate from the FAA are up to $32,666 for each incidence.
- This fine is charged per day for continual illegal use of a drone for commercial purposes after receiving a warning letter from the FAA.
- The FAA may also impose criminal sanctions, which include a fine of up to $250,000 and/or a prison sentence of up to three years upon conviction.
Once a photographer has obtained their FAA Part 107 certification, they can legally operate a drone for commercial photography. This opens up a new world of possibilities for photographers and their clients.
Benefits of Drone Photography for Clients
- Unique Perspectives
Drone photography offers a unique perspective that is impossible to achieve with traditional photography equipment. With a drone, photographers can capture images from above, offering a bird’s-eye view of landscapes, buildings, and events. This perspective can provide clients a new and exciting way to showcase their products, properties, and events.
- Increased Detail
Drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras that can capture incredible detail from above. This allows photographers to capture sharper and more detailed images than those caught from the ground. Clients can use these high-quality images for various purposes, including marketing materials, websites, and social media.
- Enhanced Safety
With a drone, photographers can capture images from angles that were once impossible to achieve without putting themselves in danger. For example, drones can capture images of large structures, such as buildings and bridges, without needing a photographer to climb to dangerous heights. This enhances safety for both the photographer and their clients.
- Cost-Effective
Drones are relatively inexpensive compared to traditional photography equipment, making them a cost-effective option for clients. In addition, capturing high-quality images from above can save clients time and money on an expensive helicopter or airplane rentals.
- Versatility
Drones can be used for various photography needs, including real estate, events, and landscapes. This versatility allows photographers to offer a broader range of services to their clients, making them more valuable as a photographer.
Conclusion
Drone photography has genuinely changed what a typical professional photographer can offer clients once they have their FAA Part 107 certification. With the ability to capture unique perspectives, increased detail, enhanced safety, cost-effectiveness, and versatility, drone photography has become an essential tool for photographers looking to offer their clients the best. So if you’re a photographer looking to enhance your services, obtaining your FAA Part 107 certification and investing in a drone may be the perfect solution.