THE FLYER’S GUIDE: 10 TIPS FOR BETTER DRONE IMAGES
1 RESEARCH EVERYTHING
The vast majority of my images have not come about from luck alone. The locations have been thoroughly researched online using Google Maps and Google Earth, which provides a satellite image of the subject and its surroundings. Google Maps is not only a great tool to locate unique subjects but can be used to scout suitable locations to launch from outside of the No-Fly-Zones. Too often I’ve come up with an idea for an aerial image only to check the DJI app and find it’s a no-go.
PhotoPills is great for checking sunrise and sunset times and the exact location in which this will happen. With this knowledge, you can plan to fly within the first 15-20 minutes after sunrise and 30 minutes before sunset to maximise the warm light and long contrasting shadows.
Once I arrive at my destination, I always walk around before flying to look for hidden obstacles like powerlines and trees, and I also use this time to choose the best location from which to launch safely. It’s important not to believe everything Google Maps shows you. Environments can change dramatically due to natural causes like storms or man-made interference like construction work.
