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July 22, 2024
Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Drone Photography Service:
In the last few years, drone photography and videography have soared to new heights, revolutionizing how we capture breathtaking aerial views. From real estate showcases to wedding celebrations, drones offer a unique perspective that was once reserved for helicopter shots or expensive crane setups. As the demand for drone services continues to grow, so does the number of providers entering the market. However, not all drone photography services are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can lead to disappointment, legal issues, or subpar results.
To help you navigate this exciting but sometimes confusing landscape, Boise Aerial Drone Photography has compiled a list of the top seven mistakes to avoid when you hire a drone photography service. By steering clear of these common pitfalls, you'll be well on your way to obtaining stunning aerial imagery that takes your project to new heights.
Mistake #1: Ignoring Legal Requirements
One of the critical mistakes you can make is overlooking the legal aspects of drone operation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has strict regulations governing the commercial use of drones, and it's essential that your chosen service provider is fully compliant.
First and foremost, check that the drone operator holds a valid Part 107 remote pilot certificate issued by the FAA. This certification demonstrates that the pilot understands airspace regulations, weather patterns, and safe operating procedures. (We went over this a little in our day-in-the-life blog last month.) Without this license, the operator is flying illegally, which could result in hefty fines as well as put your project at risk.
And, don’t forget insurance. A good drone service should carry liability insurance that covers potential damages or injuries caused by their drone operations. Ask to see proof of both their FAA certification and insurance coverage before signing any contracts.
Mistake #2: Focusing Solely on Price
While it's natural to want to find the best deal, choosing a drone photography service based solely on price can be a costly mistake in the long run. Remember the adage: you get what you pay for.
Extremely low prices might indicate a lack of experience, subpar equipment, or even illegal operations. On the other hand, established professionals with high-quality gear and requisite experience may charge more, but they're also more likely to deliver great results and operate within legal boundaries.
Instead of fixating on finding the cheapest option, focus on the value. Consider what each service provider offers in terms of equipment, experience, post-production services, and deliverables. A slightly higher up-front cost can often lead to significantly better results and a smoother overall experience.
Mistake #3: Not Checking Portfolio and Experience
When it comes to drone photography and videography, there's no substitute for experience. It would be a mistake to hire a service without thoroughly reviewing their portfolio or assessing their relevant experience.
Take the time to carefully examine their past work. Look for diversity in the company's portfolio – do they have experience in the specific type of drone photography you need? For instance, if you're looking for real estate aerial shots, a portfolio full of wedding videos might not be the best fit.
Ex. Boise Aerial Drone Photography has a lot of experience and a diverse portfolio. We have done photos and videos for events and adventures. These days we put our skills to use doing photography for construction monitoring, marketing, and similar projects.
Don't hesitate to ask about their experience with similar projects. How many years have they been operating drones professionally? Have they worked in your specific industry before? The more aligned their experience is with your needs, the more likely they are to deliver the results you're looking for.
Mistake #4: Overlooking Equipment Quality
The quality of the drone and camera equipment used can make a significant difference in the final output. A common misconception is that all drones produce similar results, but this couldn't be further from the truth.
Professional-grade drones equipped with high-resolution cameras can capture images and videos with stunning clarity and detail. They also often have better stability, longer flight times, and more advanced features that contribute to better shots.
When considering a drone service, ask about the equipment they use. What type of drones do they operate? What cameras do these drones carry? Do they have backup equipment in case of malfunctions? A professional service should be transparent about their gear and able to explain why it's suitable for your project.
Mistake #5: Failing to Discuss Post-Production Services
Capturing great footage is only half the job. The magic in drone photography often happens in post-production, where raw footage is transformed into polished, professional content. A significant mistake is not discussing post-production services up-front.
Ask potential providers about their editing process. Do they offer color grading to enhance the visual appeal of the footage? Can they add music or text overlays if needed? What about creating highlight reels or integrating ground-based footage with aerial shots?
Also, be sure to clarify deliverables and turnaround times. Will you receive raw footage, edited videos, or both? In what format will the files be delivered? How long will it take to receive the final product? Clear communication about these aspects can prevent misunderstandings and ensure you get exactly what you need.
Mistake #6: Not Considering Communication and Professionalism
The technical skills of a drone operator are crucial, but so is their ability to communicate effectively and maintain a professional demeanor. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and ultimately, dissatisfaction with the final product.
Pay attention to how responsive and clear the service provider is during your initial interactions. Do they answer your questions thoroughly? Are they proactive in addressing potential concerns or limitations? A professional drone service, like any other business, should be able to explain their processes clearly, set realistic expectations, and keep you informed throughout the project.
Also, consider their overall professionalism. Do they show up on time for meetings or calls? Are they dressed appropriately for the job? Remember, if you're hiring them for a corporate event or a wedding, they'll be representing your brand or interacting with your guests. Their professionalism reflects on you, so choose wisely.
Mistake #7: Neglecting to Check Reviews and References
In the digital age, there's no reason not to do due diligence when it comes to checking a service provider's reputation. Yet, many people still make the mistake of hiring a drone photography service without looking into their track record.
Start by checking online reviews on platforms like Google Yelp, or industry-specific sites. While a few negative reviews aren't necessarily a deal-breaker (especially if the company has responded professionally), a pattern of complaints should raise red flags.
Don't stop at online reviews, though. You can ask the provider for references from past clients, particularly those who had similar projects to yours. Reach out to these references and ask about their experience. Were they satisfied with the results? Did the provider meet deadlines? Were there any unexpected issues, and if so, how were they handled?
Conclusion
Hiring a drone photography service can elevate your project with stunning aerial imagery, but it's crucial to approach the process with care and diligence. By avoiding these seven common mistakes you should be able to find a reliable, skilled, and professional drone service that can bring your vision to life.
Remember, the right drone photography service is an investment in your project's success. Take the time to do your research, ask the right questions, and make an informed decision. With the right partner, you'll be able to capture breathtaking aerial perspectives that will set your project apart and leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Boise Aerial Drone Photography is a Boise, ID-based drone photography and videography service. We specialize in drone photography for real estate, construction, and rooftop inspections. Call us today at (208) 912-2963 for a quote.
To help you navigate this exciting but sometimes confusing landscape, Boise Aerial Drone Photography has compiled a list of the top seven mistakes to avoid when you hire a drone photography service. By steering clear of these common pitfalls, you'll be well on your way to obtaining stunning aerial imagery that takes your project to new heights.
Mistake #1: Ignoring Legal Requirements
One of the critical mistakes you can make is overlooking the legal aspects of drone operation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has strict regulations governing the commercial use of drones, and it's essential that your chosen service provider is fully compliant.
First and foremost, check that the drone operator holds a valid Part 107 remote pilot certificate issued by the FAA. This certification demonstrates that the pilot understands airspace regulations, weather patterns, and safe operating procedures. (We went over this a little in our day-in-the-life blog last month.) Without this license, the operator is flying illegally, which could result in hefty fines as well as put your project at risk.
And, don’t forget insurance. A good drone service should carry liability insurance that covers potential damages or injuries caused by their drone operations. Ask to see proof of both their FAA certification and insurance coverage before signing any contracts.
Mistake #2: Focusing Solely on Price
While it's natural to want to find the best deal, choosing a drone photography service based solely on price can be a costly mistake in the long run. Remember the adage: you get what you pay for.
Extremely low prices might indicate a lack of experience, subpar equipment, or even illegal operations. On the other hand, established professionals with high-quality gear and requisite experience may charge more, but they're also more likely to deliver great results and operate within legal boundaries.
Instead of fixating on finding the cheapest option, focus on the value. Consider what each service provider offers in terms of equipment, experience, post-production services, and deliverables. A slightly higher up-front cost can often lead to significantly better results and a smoother overall experience.
Mistake #3: Not Checking Portfolio and Experience
When it comes to drone photography and videography, there's no substitute for experience. It would be a mistake to hire a service without thoroughly reviewing their portfolio or assessing their relevant experience.
Take the time to carefully examine their past work. Look for diversity in the company's portfolio – do they have experience in the specific type of drone photography you need? For instance, if you're looking for real estate aerial shots, a portfolio full of wedding videos might not be the best fit.
Ex. Boise Aerial Drone Photography has a lot of experience and a diverse portfolio. We have done photos and videos for events and adventures. These days we put our skills to use doing photography for construction monitoring, marketing, and similar projects.
Don't hesitate to ask about their experience with similar projects. How many years have they been operating drones professionally? Have they worked in your specific industry before? The more aligned their experience is with your needs, the more likely they are to deliver the results you're looking for.
Mistake #4: Overlooking Equipment Quality
The quality of the drone and camera equipment used can make a significant difference in the final output. A common misconception is that all drones produce similar results, but this couldn't be further from the truth.
Professional-grade drones equipped with high-resolution cameras can capture images and videos with stunning clarity and detail. They also often have better stability, longer flight times, and more advanced features that contribute to better shots.
When considering a drone service, ask about the equipment they use. What type of drones do they operate? What cameras do these drones carry? Do they have backup equipment in case of malfunctions? A professional service should be transparent about their gear and able to explain why it's suitable for your project.
Mistake #5: Failing to Discuss Post-Production Services
Capturing great footage is only half the job. The magic in drone photography often happens in post-production, where raw footage is transformed into polished, professional content. A significant mistake is not discussing post-production services up-front.
Ask potential providers about their editing process. Do they offer color grading to enhance the visual appeal of the footage? Can they add music or text overlays if needed? What about creating highlight reels or integrating ground-based footage with aerial shots?
Also, be sure to clarify deliverables and turnaround times. Will you receive raw footage, edited videos, or both? In what format will the files be delivered? How long will it take to receive the final product? Clear communication about these aspects can prevent misunderstandings and ensure you get exactly what you need.
Mistake #6: Not Considering Communication and Professionalism
The technical skills of a drone operator are crucial, but so is their ability to communicate effectively and maintain a professional demeanor. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and ultimately, dissatisfaction with the final product.
Pay attention to how responsive and clear the service provider is during your initial interactions. Do they answer your questions thoroughly? Are they proactive in addressing potential concerns or limitations? A professional drone service, like any other business, should be able to explain their processes clearly, set realistic expectations, and keep you informed throughout the project.
Also, consider their overall professionalism. Do they show up on time for meetings or calls? Are they dressed appropriately for the job? Remember, if you're hiring them for a corporate event or a wedding, they'll be representing your brand or interacting with your guests. Their professionalism reflects on you, so choose wisely.
Mistake #7: Neglecting to Check Reviews and References
In the digital age, there's no reason not to do due diligence when it comes to checking a service provider's reputation. Yet, many people still make the mistake of hiring a drone photography service without looking into their track record.
Start by checking online reviews on platforms like Google Yelp, or industry-specific sites. While a few negative reviews aren't necessarily a deal-breaker (especially if the company has responded professionally), a pattern of complaints should raise red flags.
Don't stop at online reviews, though. You can ask the provider for references from past clients, particularly those who had similar projects to yours. Reach out to these references and ask about their experience. Were they satisfied with the results? Did the provider meet deadlines? Were there any unexpected issues, and if so, how were they handled?
Conclusion
Hiring a drone photography service can elevate your project with stunning aerial imagery, but it's crucial to approach the process with care and diligence. By avoiding these seven common mistakes you should be able to find a reliable, skilled, and professional drone service that can bring your vision to life.
Remember, the right drone photography service is an investment in your project's success. Take the time to do your research, ask the right questions, and make an informed decision. With the right partner, you'll be able to capture breathtaking aerial perspectives that will set your project apart and leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Boise Aerial Drone Photography is a Boise, ID-based drone photography and videography service. We specialize in drone photography for real estate, construction, and rooftop inspections. Call us today at (208) 912-2963 for a quote.