Drone Photography Tips for Beginners

Drones, it seems, are here to stay and the technology is becoming increasingly accessible. Once the domain of governments and the military, today a greater number of enthusiasts are taking up the hobby and getting their photography airborn. At VisionAir, we’ve been operating drones since they became available for commercial use and can offer a few hints for newcomers to the activity we are most passionate about – drone photography.

Try a simulator first
Before you take to the skies in the physical world, try doing so in the virtual world where erratic flying isn’t dangerous and accidents aren’t costly. These days, drone photography simulators are extremely realistic and they represent a great way to gain confidence in your ability and acquire the basic skills necessary for the real world.

Start small and cheap
Even with time on simulators, your first genuine experiments with aerial photography in NSW might not go to plan. Weather conditions, your lack of experience and many other variables may prove too difficult for learners. You can expect a hard landing or two at best or a calamitous crash at worst. Start out with cheaper equipment until you become proficient and gradually upgrade. This way you’ll avoid breaking your heart and budget before you’ve experienced the true joy of drone photography in Sydney and beyond.

Respect regulations
There has been plenty of negative press regarding irresponsible drone use. As drone photography in NSW and Australia is a relatively new phenomenon, the rules and regulations are little known and still in their infancy. They do exist though and it is important that hobbyists and commercial practitioners alike abide by the rules, so we can all keep enjoying what we do. You can read some of the key rules here.

Know your limits
Because it offers new perspectives and opportunities, it can be very easy to get overly excited about shooting drone photos in Sydney or elsewhere. Before you fly your drone near a crowded area or above that smoking volcano crater, ensure that you know your limits and what is and is not likely to end well.

Watch and learn
The world of film and television is awash with examples of aerial photography these days. Watch as many films, documentaries and television that incorporate this technology, take some notes and take some screenshots to help inspire your own projects.

Drone photography in NSW, Australia and anywhere else that it is possible is a fun and exciting activity and can result in some incredible images. If you need aerial photography of the highest caliber, get in touch with VisionAir today for a new perspective on the world.

About The Author

Jim Moustakas

Jim Moustakas is a seasoned professional in the realm of video production and commercial photography, born in the vibrant city of Frankfurt, Germany, on December 27, 1973 and then migrated to Australia in 1981. Jim’s passion for content creation ignited at the tender age of 15, a flame that has only grown brighter with time.

In 1988, while still at Randwick Boys High School in Year 9, Jim embraced the role of the resident school photographer together with other school mates, cultivating his skills in the magic of the dark room which he ran at his school. This early exposure to the art form laid the foundation for his future endeavors. Between 1992 and 2000, Jim honed his craft in the wedding photography business, capturing countless moments of joy and celebration.

The turn of the millennium marked a new chapter in Jim’s career as he embarked on a decade-long adventure from 2000 to 2011, traversing the diverse landscapes of Australia. As a national school photographer, Jim not only chronicled the academic journeys of countless students but also extended his services to Indigenous children in remote communities. His commitment to ensuring these students were not deprived of cherished school memories due to their geographical isolation speaks volumes of his character.

During this period, Jim also collaborated with Australian Geographic as a freelance shooter, skillfully documenting various assignments that aligned with his travels across Australia.

After a brief interlude from the industry, Jim’s entrepreneurial spirit led to the inception of Visionair Media in 2012. Under his leadership, Visionair Media has flourished into a reputable commercial photography and video production agency. The company prides itself on delivering top-tier photography and video production services to both the commercial and government sectors, showcasing Jim’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to adapt and evolve within the ever-changing landscape of visual media.

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