Drone Imaging 101

10 experts share their advice on getting started

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There’s no doubt about the fact that drones have become increasingly popular. They are more affordable than ever, and more advanced and sophisticated than before. But getting started with drones is not as straightforward as you might think. It involves some studying, knowledge of and complying with the regulations, and (most important) a lot of practice. You need to learn how to fly the drone safely before you can actually start taking photos with it.

In an attempt to help you shoot better drone videos and photos, we asked some drone video and photo experts one simple question: “What are your top tips for a beginner who would like to get started with aerial photography or videography using a drone?” Here are their answers.

The Big Meringue

Scala dei Turchi (the Turkish Steps) is a white cliff in Sicily. It’s made of a soft limestone and a blinding white marl. Natural erosion has created steps on the cliff face, making it look soft and sinuous, like a big meringue covered with sprinkles (i.e., the people sitting and walking on it).

Placido Faranda | placidofaranda.com

Your drone is just a camera with propellers. Study photographic technique and composition. Two must-read books are Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson and The Photographer’s Eye by Michael Freeman.

Use Google Earth! It’s an awesome tool to preview how your shooting place will look from the sky. Some places are awesome from the ground but not that great from the sky and vice versa.