How to Get Started With Drone Photography

We run through everything you need to get amazing aerial shots with a drone

Some of the most exciting developments in photography today are happening in the world of drones. More and more photographers are sending cameras into the sky on the backs of a few slim, plastic rotors, and the results they're getting are just completely awesome.

It's easy to be a little daunted though - drones aren't something you can just pick up and use, and there are all sorts of factors to consider. What drone do I want, and what camera do I need to attach to it?

To help you get started, we've put together a guide to everything you need to get flying as quickly as possible while staying safe and responsible.

Important first step: Check the law

Before you so much as think about lift off, there is one very important step you need to take, and that's to know exactly what your rights and requirements are as a drone pilot in the area in which you live.

This is something that works both ways - not only do you of course need to be respectful of the law, but also having a thorough working knowledge of your rights as a drone pilot can be a huge asset if someone tries to hassle or intimidate you when you're being perfectly respectful of the rules (regrettably, this does happen).

If you're in the UK, it's worth having a look at this thorough guide to the issues around drone photography as compiled by Amateur Photographer magazine. Wherever you are in the world though, the rules should be simple to find by searching. Familiarise yourself with where you are and are not allowed to fly, and stick to the rules.

Picking your Drone

If you've never flown a drone before then we're afraid there are going to be multiple steps to this (the good part is that at least they're all good fun!)

See, before you master the art of flying your drone, you are going to crash it. This is inevitable. It may be your fault, it may not, but one way or another that beautiful piece of kit is going to come tumbling out of the sky in precisely the manner you were hoping it wouldn't.

This is why the first thing you should do before mounting a camera to anything is simply practice flying a drone, and this should certainly not be an expensive DJI model with a multitude of expensive bells and whistles. You could try something as simple as the Arcade Orbit Nano Drone, however our recommendation for a starter would be the the Extreme Fliers Micro Drone 2.0. With simple controls, engineered stability, USB charging and a lightweight build, it's the ideal drone for getting the practice in and clocking up some airtime. And if any of your crashes (to reiterate: there will be crashes) cause damage, it's simple to order replacement parts for any that take one knock too many.

Once you've mastered the basics, it's time to pick the drone you'll be using for your actual photography. There's no shortage of choice here and we'd encourage you to shop around and find something you like. Our recommendation, however, goes to the DJI Phantom 3 Standard Drone.

With a built-in camera, GPS functionality, wireless mobile connectivity and an on-the-go battery indicator that tells you how much flying time you've got left and alerts you when it's time to bring the drone home, the DJI Phantom 3 Standard is a comprehensive kit. Its 12MP camera will also ensure you get nice, detailed shots.

What camera should I use?

The answer to this question does depend pretty heavily on which drone you opt for. Many drones, including the DJI Phantom 3 Standard come packing their own cameras, while others include their own stabilising gimbal and cradle into which you can fit a selection of popular action cameras. As well as DJI, these include drones from 3DR, Xiro and Yuneec. As far as cameras go, since you're just getting started with drone photography we will keep this simple - you absolutely cannot go wrong with a GoPro HD Hero camera. These little action cameras have reached their phenomenal level of popularity for a reason - they are exceedingly well-made, reliable, and you will be more than happy with the footage and images you obtain from them.

For the best standards, we'd say go for the GoPro Hero 4

With regards to settings, assuming you're using the GoPro we'd say use the ‘Narrow' setting for field of view, as your subject is almost certainly going to be a fair distance from the camera. Also take some time to check out the colour profiles - if you think you'll be up for some tinkering afterwards then use the ‘flat' setting for maximum flexibility, otherwise the ‘GoPro' setting will work nicely for getting punchy shots straight out of camera.

Accessories

If your drone does not have a built-in camera then you'll also want to get hold of a stabilising gimbal, which combats the effect of engine vibration on your footage. Something like DJI's ZenMuse system should suit your purposes.

You're also going to need to pack some decent micro SD cards for your GoPro, especially if you'll be recording footage in 4K - we'd recommend one of the high-performance cards from SanDisk, with high capacity and good read/write speeds. Spare batteries for drone and camera are a must too.

First flight

You've got your gear, now it's time to fly! The first thing to do is check your drone and remote have all the latest firmware updates, and install them if not. You'll need a Wi-Fi connection, so check before you leave the house.

Some drones may also need some calibration before you can flight. Check the manufacturer handbook, and make sure you follow all of the steps thoroughly.

That's it! Here are a few tips to get you started.

Check the rules…again. Yes, we know, we said this already, but it's worth repeating every time you find a new location to fly in. Are you allowed to fly there? Are there restrictions on altitude, or sensitive areas you need to avoid? Know before you go.

Avoid people. Places where crowds congregate are really not your friend. Flying above crowds is not only dangerous, in many places it's also illegal.

Fly slowly, with smooth and fluid movements. Keeping things simple will make the drone easier to control, and help your shots too.

Check the weather. If gale-force winds and torrential rain are forecast, perhaps try again another day. Play with camera settings. Try out different settings and see what you like best.

Plan your flights. Try to have an idea of where you want to end up and what you want to achieve. You'll find this is the key to satisfying results.

Take your time, experiment, and don't be discouraged if your first flights don't amount to much - after all, this is a brand new discipline.

Happy flying! And lastly, remember to send us your shots on Twitter and Instagram!