Russ, I’m a newly retired architect, also Part 107 for 4 1/2 years, and a former board member of one of the local Economic Development Boards. What you stated about contacting the local officials is exactly what I’m in the process of doing. The one item, I believe is the Most Important, but you did not mention, is the absolute necessity of obtaining Liability Insurance, prior to the very first business flight. Starting out, policies can be on a per project basis, hourly fee of approx $25, or on a monthly fee of $100. I’m sure your aware of several insurance companies that offer drone policies. I highly recommend insurance to anyone interested in starting a drone business; not only a necessity, but marketing your firm as having insurance s also very helpful in establishing your credibility.
@Joe skywatch liability. I use them at $47 a month for the LLC I formed. Adjustable coverage but once you have a part 107 and insurance, you're good to go.
My mavic 2s got destroyed after falling down from a tall tree overnight since it was stuck up there the whole night. It dropped and I picked it up in the morning, camera broken.
Hey, you made a video about the same topic around a year ago. Back then, I started my drone business because of you. I am 14 years old and earned $3000+ last year just from drone photography and videography. Thanks for inspiring me!
Speaking of niches: I'm currently working on building a drone business around taking pictures of boats/yachts for their owners. I take the pics and have them printed on canvas so the owners can always admire their boat, even outside of the season. Worked with some sailing clubs so far and there seems to be a lot of interest :).
Russ, I just wanted to add that I recently got hired on by a company that does home inspections from wind or storm damage. I go and take photos of the house with my phone and then take aerials of the roof. Literally, everything uploads to an app, and that's it. The site is finished and uploaded before I leave the clients home. I have been geting 1-3 inspections a week. That's good side business for me and my family.
The trick is networking. As cliche as it is, it’s what works. I’m 16 and have worked with companies like Hyundai, Magazine corporations, ESPN, SEO Level Up and more. It all started by getting to know people. Great video! Biggest thing to take away is don’t give work away free. It will come back to bite you later.
@@7Phub I have done some work for free especially when I started. For example, work I should have charged $1500+ for I gave for free because I was afraid the client would say he no longer needed me for the video bc of price. Because I gave it for free, word spread and others were like, “well you gave it free to this company, can I get it free?” Whatever your comfortable charging… so long as it’s something (not $0), add 5%. If the client wants it, they will pay. Now on the other side, if it’s a nonprofit organization etc, that’s one of the few times to give a huge discount or free as long as you can handle what it costs you.
Just curios but how did you do your marketing ? He were you able to obtain an audience with these big corporations. I agree it’s all about marketing just don’t know how to get in front of these very busy people, nor do I know which people I even need to talk to
@@justoshe..12 Actually I had a bit of luck. I shared my work on social and SeoLevelUp and ESPN Chicago saw it. They then hired me and built a website for my business, then did SEO so my website would come too of search results. Basically, share your work and get it out there.
I passed my exam from tony and Chelsea’s free study guide they posted. It’s an hour long video and only tells you what you need to pass. I l just listened 10-15 times while I was driving or working and I was able to pass with a 70. No practice test and they explained the trick questions very well.
Last year I visited a friend of mine who owns his old family hotel/restaurant. I flew a few minutes and gave him some photos and videos, just between friends. They now have one of my photos on the back of their catalog. But what I want to mention here is, that my wife looked at the videos and noticed, that one of their photovoltaic cells on the roof looked off. I showed him and said, I have no idea why this is. A few weeks later he called me, telling me I should do this for a living. He told his service guy, they checked the cells and the one in question was in fact broken and needed to be replaced. Without me he never would have known. So maybe also contact people who have PV systems on their property and offer inspection flights :)
I’m a real estate photographer, most agents are not just looking for drone photos, they want the whole package available for every job. Drone photos, interior, 360 tours, floor plans, video…etc. Drone is a tiny part of the business honestly and to do it well takes thousands of hours of research and practice…on top of equipment costs. In some high end areas you may be able to sell your drone services direct to re photographers who do not want to deal with drones themselves though.
I have had my Part 107 for over 2 years and started my own LLC to start making money. I agree you have pound the payment. Another avenue to take is join your local business association and start attending networking events. Networking has been the best pavement pounder for me. I try to keep jobs around 50 mile radius. For pricing the thing to remember is price your time accordingly. Remember it is YOUR TIME that is the valuable asset so don't sell yourself short and make sure you charge enough to cover the cost to put the drone in the air. Save flights everyone.
This video is right on time. Just last night I was looking up information about writing off a laptop for a drone business. But making money with my drone has been the goal since I received my license last year in February. I contacted a number of real estate agents to do videos/drone videography for their properties. Not much success with that because, as you mentioned, most agents already have their own videographer. But now I'm going to aim for construction sites doing progress monitoring/photography/videography for buildings being constructed. Another industry to target is architecture. I met an architect in Lima, Peru back in March who saw me flying my drone in a park and said he could use it for one of his projects. We exchanged numbers and a couple of days later I went by to see what the project was. It was a pool he designed for his apartment building. So the next day I went and did some photos for him. There's also the oil and gas industry, agriculture and films. For anyone thinking of other industries to target. But it's been on my mind heavily, since I've returned to the States, to start making money with my drone. It really is a money making machine. Drone services are in demand. Thank you for posting this video!
Construction is a good one! I’m a contractor just bought the mini 3 pro because drone footage of my jobs/cliff jumping/mountain climbing etc will be a game changer!
This is a sign! I was just telling my wife I wanted to go to the next level. I messaged Ken a couple days ago inquiring about how to get started on this path. Thanks for making this video Russ! I'm pretty sure you just pushed me over the edge.(In a good way) 😅
Thank you for this video! I was scheduled to take my Part 107 Exam as I watched this video and your suggestion to enroll in Drone Pilot Ground School saved me! I had been through the FAA provided study guide for the exam and thought I was ready to test but after seeing this video your suggestion to enroll in a study course convinced me otherwise. It was Memorial Day weekend and I was able to take advantage of their discounted enrollment offer too. I was about 3 or 4 modules into the course and could easily see at this point I would have bombed the test without this additional preparation so once again thank you for this advice! By the way I just received my Temporary Airman Certificate....woohoo!
Russ, You have some great thoughts and words of encouragement for the newer people in the drone industry. I have my 107 and a couple of drones but am so busy with work I haven’t put the effort into building the business. Thanks for given the incentive I needed to get back in the right mindset. As a side note: A few years back when the Baaken Shale play started booming, I would come to North Dakota to work in the oil fields. I love the Scandinavian Heritage Center and Magic City. The winters were brutal on this Texan. I wish I had a drone back then. I would have loved to document the activity of the “Oil Boom,” just like the old spindle top days. No one can believe what all was going on.|
Russ, thank you for this excellent video about starting a drone business. You covered a lot of great information in this short video. I did add a comment regarding insurance for any new business. Yes, a website is an inexpensive way to start a business and post a gallery of your photos and videos. Your new business adventure of selling postcards is outstanding. I wish you much success! Well Done, Russ!
Russ, thanks for the encouragement. I have my Part 107, three drones, a portfolio on Instagram, business cards, and what I think are some pretty decent photo and video chops. I've done a few sparse jobs here and there, but really need to get out and beat the pavement, as you say. Thanks for the nudge. I love your channel.
I used the same course for my certification in 2016. They give lifetime access and I also used the course when I did my recertification. Great suggestion!
Its way easier said than done. I have a Mini 3 Pro and a Part 107 and ive been reaching out to all types of businesses for months and have only for 1 small gig. I have 3 tree service companies interested in getting photos taken but havnt got any jobs yet.
Good move on the study guide for the Part 107 exam, it's for the best. Something I've learned about taking federal exams in the course of upgrading my Coast Guard engineer's license is that the questions are mostly structured like this: one answer is correct, one is very wrong, and two answers will be somewhat close to being correct. Another piece of advice was passed along by my last CG exam administrator was to NOT go back and change answers. He said that almost invariably you change it to a wrong answer when you do that. Just an FYI and PSA for everyone.
Russ thank you for the video. The competition for starting a drone business where I live in Florida is off the charts. However I talked with some friends both in Ohio and Pennsylvania and it's fairly wide open. It's not easy and you need to lay the groundwork before you start pounding the pavement. Establishing your business as a LLC is a must. You need to take marketing to another degree with everything from logos to a social media presence to a website. You also need to have the right equipment including multiple batteries, a backup drone, multiple SD cards, and portable mass storage. It can be done but It's not for everyone.
anyone that tells you an LLC is a must has no clue about law! If you think that an LLC can totally isolate your personal wealth form a law suite, then LOL good luck in court Skippy
@@silbay Disagree. Setting up an LLC is a must plus is a must along with consulting with an attorney familiar with setting up businesses. This was not meant to be a step by step guide or all inclusive.
Great ideas to start a drone business. You can also, with the appropriate license, could contact weeding photographers and offer them your services for drone footages. Some of them work alone or just with another backup photographer and don’t have time during the ceremony and the after party to fly a drone. You could offer video clips and also photos as part of their packages.
Hi Russ. Very, Very great informative video as always. This is some of the best information for someone interested in starting a business. I have a business 1-1/2 years now and not complaining one bit. I'm a Retired MARINE 30 yrs. Retired after Desert Storm then fully retired from the workforce in 2010 from the Aviation field. What I'm saying is that I can take it or leave it the drone business but why. This is the easiest and fun money I've ever made. Keep up the great work, I've been subbed to you forever it seems.
I use my drone to produce content for a video production company making advertisements, testimonies, promotional content, and more. Filming roofs, boats, schools, and construction sites are all ways I make money flying my drone. And I’m only 18. If you want it, you can do it! P.S. I passed my part 107 first try in one week with a 77. Not amazing, but I passed!
I tried to reach out to every possible client I could think of for a month and not a single response lol I am just gonna fly recreationally now and make personal projects. I thoroughly enjoy flying and learning all the ins and outs.
I work for a survey company, started as a regular surveyor said i was interested in working with drones. Now im doing aerial surveys with both photography and LIDAR.
Russ! Great information! I love the fact that you encourage others to take the next step. I live along Lake Michigan and I think about all the watercraft in the harbors. Who wouldn’t want a nice image or video of their boat from a different viewpoint. My background in photography goes back to the film days and now my Mini3Pro will take me to new heights (pun intended). I’m a few years from retirement and looking for a new adventure. Thanks for the channel and all the great content it brings.
Thanks for the great content Russ. I've had my part 107 for about 3 years now and am always toying with the idea of making some side $$$. You've definitely given me some ideas and a reason to knock the dust off my Mavic 3 classic. Love your positive attitude and keep em coming!
Every photographer or videographer should have good drone (get certified ofc) I remember Tony and chelsea Northrop went on a business trip and they were so excited about their wildlife lenses and some big medium format equipment among other things, but everyone was excited and blown away by their casual drone footage. Not the expensive cameras or lenses. Drones while not new anymore are still exciting and different for most people. It’s enough to set you apart
I live in Louisiana, we recently had a hurricane come through - 🙄. A drone can be used to do property assessments. Use a QR code or similar to get permission to do survey's on the property. This can help those who have evacuated get an assessment for insurance purposes.
Thank you, I am very happy to save some money. Your announcement of the discount has expedited my plans to sign up for this UAV Part 107 education and training . I appreciate you bringing it to my attention. Best Regards
I did the drone pilot test without a course and it was fine. You might or might not need one depending on how well you test. If you test well, try without a course first.
I got in contact with some local photographers and get work from them. They call me regularly to assist with projects and photo shoots they have as an added feature in their business. They promote me and it's gotten me a lot of extra business.
Heads up, mavic 2 pro is closer to $800 after fees, look at those prices again, 0 are for 500 and almost all are 699, $800 is standard for mavic 2 pro currently, Air 2s is definitely the most affordable high quality one, and can be purchased for around 700 with flymore (I would know as I’m selling one at 750 and mine isn’t the cheapest listed)
Good channel, however, I disagree with this post. Learn photography first. Getting the drone and the part 107 is the easier part. Becoming a skilled photographer could take years. First learn the basics of photography. If you start promoting yourself as a photographer, but your work is junk, You’re gonna burn up all the prospects. Just because you’re by a hammer doesn’t make you a carpenter. Drone is just a tool. I see way too much junk photography and cinematography out there. Learn to fly well and learn photography first.
Great video Russ. There is serious money to be made in this business I believe. You highlighted a few ways of going about it. Real-estate, mapping, agricultural, tower inspections, thermal, etc, etc. Perhaps a video laying out ALL of the fields that a drone "pilot" could go into and the approximate earnings associated with that particular field.
u call $20 serious money 🤑. every junkie is a professional photographer and has a drone nowadays. now of course they live in the van and don't have mortgage payment and can afford charge way less. these absolute no money in it.
@@confettihunterminus1 you should also see a list of the costs associated with the high paying jobs, like $30K drones with $20K worth of camera hanging below them
I started in FPV and have the idea of getting 2 or 3 sets of goggles and charge for an FPV ride. Then have a Cetus X setup and let them TRY flying FPV. $5 a ride. $10 to fly 3 to 4 minutes each about a battery flight. Just need the proper area to setup to fly. My wife says no way but I say everyone wants to try flying. At $10 to try it out and if they like it, they will pay to try again.
Russ, another great video. Your approach and delivery on all things important to Drone operators is always spot on. Thanks for another really informative video. Great job!
When it comes to going around and taking pictures with the drone make sure you look at local laws. All the parks near me are no fly zones unless hired by the park itself. Also the city near me has an airport near by so you can't fly in certain areas and others you have to stay very low, but the cops to be "safe" like to think of the whole city as a no fly zone. They have been known to confiscate drones. You have to go to the station to pick it up and find the SD card that was in it to be wiped clean. They have apps that can show you in what area your in if you can fly or not and how high your allowed to go. I want to get into FPV but its so hard to find places to fly. But on the bright side I have a friend that makes good side money flying for a local real estate agent. She told him everyone in the office has a hard time finding people who can fly and get good shots and I'm just like. Wonder why? XD
King School does a great job as well. A lot of Realtors try and do this themselves without having a 107. I have a few that pay me $100 a session, the big money for me was rich people that want to show off there house and property.
I am a USCG captain with a delivery business. Delvier boats, sail and power and do lots of work on the water. Thinking about added this drone to my business.
Construction site photos, during and after the project is complete. I am a commercial superintendent and I will be trying to get my company and others to use my services. Thank you for the video.
Seems like learning to fly FPV, getting something like the dji avata (unless you really know how to fly!) and getting shots similar to a walk/fly thru would really up that income. Especially if you can learn to fly good enough. It’s incredible what some pilots can do! Eg: high overhead shot, swoop down into a window, up one set of stairs, down the other and out over a pool or something would be awesome and expensive but better practice…..A LOT! Get a controller and use a simulator on a pc. Those crashes are free! ;)
Stock content is the way in leaning as I’ve seen it mentioned a few times and it’s good to get some nice shots in of your own part of the world. Photos should be highest quality you can and vids should be anywhere between 15-60 seconds, again think about who would buy it for marketing etc. they don’t need long clips as usually they want multiple angles/movements, you sell each as it’s own thing.
I got my dji mini 2 drone almost 2 years ago now. And since then I have been using it for my real estate work. I think I will get in touch with insurance business and take photos for them
I just got the new Mavic 3 Pro, because I just started working with a construction company where I charge between 300-600€ per location, each location is about 2 hours of work including editing a short video and I'm doing 1-3 of these per month, so thats some nice money coming in on the side.
Maybe not the best in some opinions, but I think drone aggregators can be a good start. I only have a Mini 2 and no real editing skills, and I'm able to do roof inspections at about $75 for 30 mins of work. Take photos and upload through the app and you're done. I recently lined up 3 on a Saturday morning, took me 4 hrs total and made $225. I've turned more away than I've accepted due to full time job workload and family commitments.
Nice! I was thinking of getting into insurance adjusting and had heard of drone usage - but i also like the thought of just doing the drone service for inspections
We pretty much removed adjusters from using drones for inspections for roofing as it misses WAY to much. But they are handy to see wind damage and the over all scope of the roof, but especially for hail? Useless, need to get on the roof and inspect up close.@@colleenconrade3156
Thanks for this video. I've been needing to get my Part 107 ever since my supervisor dropped two boxes of parts in my office and said "See if you can get this to fly again".
I'm perusing my license. Should come handy in the Surveying Business. I personally started just for fun my latest is the FVP DJI, I cannot tell you how fun that drone is lol. There are many sites that offer classes. Drones are and will forever be in our future lives
Not sure if anyone has mentioned this but I read that wedding video and photography can also be a good source of income for drone pilots. I'm still in the research phase of everything but I thought I'd share in case it helps someone.
Russ as it relates to the cost, we could include a combination of photos and videos of a certain quantity and charge per hr. or one flat rate. Usually that can excite a client knowing that they are getting more content and value for their $$$. It will be a win win. This video btw was very very informative. 👍👍
Just got my first drone. Paid $239 on Prime Day for a mini 4k.Took first flights at sunrise & sunset Got beautiful pics. Getting a little less afraid a pterodactyl will swoop out of the sky and grab it or it'll fall 10,000 feet into a never-ending sinkhole. 🤣🤣🤣 I really hope by year's end I've passed the test, gotten a pro 4 or Mavic and will be making money.
Thanks for sharing! Your video just popped up as a suggestion. I guess the YT algorithm saw I've been interested in this subject for a bit. There were also 333 comments when I saw this so that's a sign too that I should definitely look into getting started with this. You've got a new subscriber and IG follower.
I have a few side hustles, and do my own taxes ..... this guys on point. Hes just giving this away guys, if youre young just listen to what hes saying about everything, how he thinks, no need to copy, also do your own taxes with assistance if needed
Brilliant video, loved your thoughts and suggestions. Also appreciate you being open about your charging strategy. More of us that share and encourage each other, the better.
I disagree with giving away for free. At least monetarily. Free is the best way to get out there, gain real world experience, learn problems and solutions and increase your skills. If you ask for anything, ask for a public review. Ask for what they liked and didn’t like. Free is one of the best ways to grow, and when people can help you do that, without having to take a chance on their end with their money, even if it’s 10 or 20 dollars, it works out great for them and the starter business. 5-10 “Free Promotional Offers” in exchange for reviews, marketing, field experience with actual customers, as well as feedback and portfolio footage, is well worth any time that is put into a free offer. I agree with everything else 100% and this is great content! Thanks for taking the time to share!
2 days ago I bought the dji Matrice 30T. Hoping to expand my business, but your right, marketing is the key. Plenty of business out there for UAV pilots. Good video.
You spent that kind of money with no jobs lined up to require that equipment? Can't say much for your business knowledge. Let us know how you are doing in 6 months
@@silbay How do you line up work with no equipment? How do you get a job, then buy equipment, then learn how to use the equipment, in a timely matter to do the job you just got? I've been in business for myself for more than 23 years and have done quite well. Well enough that I could buy this equipment without worry, not desperation. You went down a path from my comments that was unnecessary, I just commented on marketing being a key component.
Thank you, you made me decide to start with the very same idea I had in mind. I will travel San Diego and try to buy my first DJI mini 2 se, that”s what I can afford. Have a great weekend!
Maybe look at more obscure events that haven’t been tapped into yet. Action sports have already been at the forefront of a lot of drone use, but what about rodeos, off-road competitions or clubs, shooting sports (firearms, archery, cowboy, etc.), equestrian (dressage, hunter/jumper), state/county fairs. Just started thinking about these things myself and thought others might be able to capitalize.
IRS did NOT allow me to write off the darkroom in one of the bedrooms in a house that I owned and lived in. They did allow writing off hardware/consumable costs but not rent or utilities. Hey thanks for the video.
It's the "home office" deduction and limited to areas with "exclusive use" to the business, so one simply needs to have this in mind and set up the space accordingly to qualify.
Yes, I did all that according to IRS rules and recommendations to no avail, and that was after a sit down with all three of us: IRS, accountant, me. Appeal would have cost 10k so I dropped it. IRS refusal cost me about a grand a year. Not the end of anything, just a minor irritation. I learned a lot about doing paperwork in my favor however, so the confrontation had some merit. I was never audited again after that.
At 62 I hope to keep building houses for the next 8 years. Drones of all types are just a hobby for me. Might be an option someday but not now. The market is booming and we can't build enough houses!
The real estate industry is the perfect launch pad if you are just starting if you are willing to do interiors as well. You just cant charge a good enough rate for only real estate aerials unless you are doing some really high end homes.
Great video and suggestions. Please keep in mind that some states are different than others when it comes to making money with a drone. Be sure you understand your local laws before you fly your drone commercially. My state of Minnesota requires registration of the drone with the state and also a business license. So you will need to start an officially business to fly commercially in the state of Minnesota. Also, in order to register the drone with the state for commercial purposes, you must have proof of insurance.
Understand that the only entity who controls the airspace is the FAA. Check out Drone U's advocacy kit, it has the literal letter from the FAA telling states they cannot create a registration program. Its illegal.
I have performed aerial marketing videos for commercial businesses. Businesses with outdoor assists, i.e. agricultural trailer company, commercial livestock company.
I might suggest people form a corporation or legal entity and/or have good insurance. You never know where trouble may come from.. if you don't want to put your assets at risk, you need likely both- form a business entity AND have insurance before you do any commercial work.
This is a great video and super informative. Love that you are inspiring others to start their own business. I would honestly recommend charging more. If we have thousands of videographers flooding the industry only charging $100-ish per shoot then the product becomes a commodity and the value is degraded. Price should be based on value for the client, rather than your time.
I know that this is an old video, however I don't know if anybody else came up with this or not. There's the option of going to home inspectors and subcontracting out your flying to the home inspector. I know several home inspectors that are using drones to do roof inspections and overall exterior second floor inspections and at least two of them are not licensed, they're just throwing the Drone in the air and shooting the video if you could get with a home inspector who's doing this without a license and convince them that it would be safer for them and cheaper in the long run to hire you to do it rather than run the risk of getting caught that might open an opportunity there
Grand openings. Love's, for instance, likes to take a group photo of all its employees in the shape of a heart. It could turn into an aerial of their truck parking.
I had 2 air2's drones, an enterprise mapping drone that cost 7k plus, and experience using them, mapping, and modeling. I made 0 dollars. Everything legal, insured, and above bored. I couldn't even get companies to accept FREE services that typically would cost thousands. Not to mention my tax write offs didn't seem to help at all, I ended up paying more in taxes last year. I think most companies are happy paying insane prices to already established engineering and surveying firms. And the gig market is just laughable. I keep getting emails to drive hours for a 70 dollar job. Maybe its different in other parts of the country...
I'm not seeing any advertising for drone jobs where I live. It's not a money making gig. There are agriculture jobs but they a few and far between. The FAA is making everything very difficult as well. If people are getting this license believing that they will make money they are in for a rude awakening
SUBSCRIBED what a heck of a channel! cant wait to watch every single video. thanks brother this is a great idea real estate photography has been an interest already, adding drones is going to double up my interest here. 500$ per property... i can live off of just one a week lol
I love your videos Russ. If I had something to add I'd say the number one thing drone pilots do wrong is.. selling themselves as drone pilots. Mechanics don't sell themselves as wrench turners, and photographers don't sell themselves as camera clickers. Your client does not truly care what drone you fly or the fact that you fly drones even, they care about the deliverables you give them. Being a drone pilot isn't what you get paid for, delivering a quality finished product is. I tell my new clients I will be their end-to-end data collection solution and in doing so I have expanded my business to include all sorts of new offerings besides drones and went from making a few hundred dollars for a "drone job" locally and now my flagship offering is $6,000 for what takes about 2 hours of work and I don't take jobs for less than $1,000 and have repeat business in 30 states. We've all been doing it wrong for years, let's not confuse our tool with our product. All that being said, I love everything 51 Drones has been putting out for all these years.
Sounds good but… I went to the trouble to get my drone license and was excited to start making extra money videoing. The trouble is everywhere I went, It was illegal to fly a drone so I gave up haven’t renewed my license.
Russ, I’m a newly retired architect, also Part 107 for 4 1/2 years, and a former board member of one of the local Economic Development Boards. What you stated about contacting the local officials is exactly what I’m in the process of doing. The one item, I believe is the Most Important, but you did not mention, is the absolute necessity of obtaining Liability Insurance, prior to the very first business flight. Starting out, policies can be on a per project basis, hourly fee of approx $25, or on a monthly fee of $100. I’m sure your aware of several insurance companies that offer drone policies. I highly recommend insurance to anyone interested in starting a drone business; not only a necessity, but marketing your firm as having insurance s also very helpful in establishing your credibility.
Excellent point! I will pin this!
Are you talking about skywatch liability for just the drone or something entirely different?
@Joe skywatch liability. I use them at $47 a month for the LLC I formed. Adjustable coverage but once you have a part 107 and insurance, you're good to go.
@@shadowofchaos8932 I use Airmoto, $23/1hr or $100/month fir drone liability of $1,000,000 policy. Separate from my corporation liability policy
My mavic 2s got destroyed after falling down from a tall tree overnight since it was stuck up there the whole night. It dropped and I picked it up in the morning, camera broken.
Hey, you made a video about the same topic around a year ago. Back then, I started my drone business because of you. I am 14 years old and earned $3000+ last year just from drone photography and videography. Thanks for inspiring me!
Ik ben ook van plan om geld te verdienen met mijn drone. Zou je kunnen meedelen wat voor werk je verricht en hoe je werk vindt? Bedankt!
That’s amazing!
How's that possible??? You need to be 16 years of age to take the part 107 test? If your flying without your license that can be alot of trouble/fines
@@backwoods_aerial2825 I live in The Netherlands, there’s no license required here
@LarsDrone ahhh I see lucky guy! That's cool! Keep going dude by the time your my age you will be making some big moves!
Speaking of niches: I'm currently working on building a drone business around taking pictures of boats/yachts for their owners. I take the pics and have them printed on canvas so the owners can always admire their boat, even outside of the season. Worked with some sailing clubs so far and there seems to be a lot of interest :).
Love this idea. You're not around SoCal area are you? Dont want to intrude on your business.
@@ahsanace21 No I'm not even on the same continent. Go ahead and use it!
Good idea!
@@ahsanace21 Im in SoCal. Going to do this in the OC.
@@luchtfotohellevoetsluis je woont toch ook niet toevallig in Nederland? Leuk idee namelijk! 😂
Russ, I just wanted to add that I recently got hired on by a company that does home inspections from wind or storm damage. I go and take photos of the house with my phone and then take aerials of the roof. Literally, everything uploads to an app, and that's it. The site is finished and uploaded before I leave the clients home. I have been geting 1-3 inspections a week. That's good side business for me and my family.
What app is that
@@shymir03 I am sure it is proprietary to that insurance company so it is irrelevant...
@timothybutler8015 As long as you're sure than I'm blindly sure too.
@shymir03 What region (state) are you in? I can tell you if the company needs anyone in your area.
@@andrewscarberry I'd be interested. I'm in the Oakland Area of California. Thanks
The trick is networking. As cliche as it is, it’s what works. I’m 16 and have worked with companies like Hyundai, Magazine corporations, ESPN, SEO Level Up and more. It all started by getting to know people. Great video! Biggest thing to take away is don’t give work away free. It will come back to bite you later.
Could you give an example if you have any about your advice on not giving work away free? How will it suck after?
@@7Phub I have done some work for free especially when I started. For example, work I should have charged $1500+ for I gave for free because I was afraid the client would say he no longer needed me for the video bc of price. Because I gave it for free, word spread and others were like, “well you gave it free to this company, can I get it free?” Whatever your comfortable charging… so long as it’s something (not $0), add 5%. If the client wants it, they will pay. Now on the other side, if it’s a nonprofit organization etc, that’s one of the few times to give a huge discount or free as long as you can handle what it costs you.
@@SkyPathProductions thanks for the insight, I understand it more now thank you 🙏🏼 I’ll def keep that in mind
Just curios but how did you do your marketing ? He were you able to obtain an audience with these big corporations. I agree it’s all about marketing just don’t know how to get in front of these very busy people, nor do I know which people I even need to talk to
@@justoshe..12 Actually I had a bit of luck. I shared my work on social and SeoLevelUp and ESPN Chicago saw it. They then hired me and built a website for my business, then did SEO so my website would come too of search results. Basically, share your work and get it out there.
In Germany, farmers are obliged to search their fields for deer kitzen before mowing. This is now often done with drones and infrared cameras.
I passed my exam from tony and Chelsea’s free study guide they posted. It’s an hour long video and only tells you what you need to pass. I l just listened 10-15 times while I was driving or working and I was able to pass with a 70. No practice test and they explained the trick questions very well.
Hi Ryan, can you post the link?
I don't have a direct link, but I know he's talking about my friends Tony and Chelsea Northrup. They're here on UA-cam.@@tydolan5268
Last year I visited a friend of mine who owns his old family hotel/restaurant. I flew a few minutes and gave him some photos and videos, just between friends. They now have one of my photos on the back of their catalog.
But what I want to mention here is, that my wife looked at the videos and noticed, that one of their photovoltaic cells on the roof looked off. I showed him and said, I have no idea why this is. A few weeks later he called me, telling me I should do this for a living. He told his service guy, they checked the cells and the one in question was in fact broken and needed to be replaced.
Without me he never would have known.
So maybe also contact people who have PV systems on their property and offer inspection flights :)
We've made great money flying our drones as part of our video company. Get out there and practice and build a business
I’m a real estate photographer, most agents are not just looking for drone photos, they want the whole package available for every job. Drone photos, interior, 360 tours, floor plans, video…etc. Drone is a tiny part of the business honestly and to do it well takes thousands of hours of research and practice…on top of equipment costs. In some high end areas you may be able to sell your drone services direct to re photographers who do not want to deal with drones themselves though.
You can use a drone for most of that
@@XilentDesign No, drones only take shots where the mirrorless can’t reach. Can you attach strobe lights to a drone? Lmao
@@Perceivedshiftturn the lights on
@@thesaltypro5842 You have no idea what goes into professional RE photography.
Thousands of hours sound crazy lil bruh.
Dude, don't let the "negative Nellies" get to you. You always seem to have a positive attitude. Keep it up!
There’s been a lot lately. Thanks for the encouragement!
I have had my Part 107 for over 2 years and started my own LLC to start making money. I agree you have pound the payment. Another avenue to take is join your local business association and start attending networking events. Networking has been the best pavement pounder for me. I try to keep jobs around 50 mile radius. For pricing the thing to remember is price your time accordingly. Remember it is YOUR TIME that is the valuable asset so don't sell yourself short and make sure you charge enough to cover the cost to put the drone in the air. Save flights everyone.
This video is right on time. Just last night I was looking up information about writing off a laptop for a drone business. But making money with my drone has been the goal since I received my license last year in February. I contacted a number of real estate agents to do videos/drone videography for their properties. Not much success with that because, as you mentioned, most agents already have their own videographer. But now I'm going to aim for construction sites doing progress monitoring/photography/videography for buildings being constructed. Another industry to target is architecture. I met an architect in Lima, Peru back in March who saw me flying my drone in a park and said he could use it for one of his projects. We exchanged numbers and a couple of days later I went by to see what the project was. It was a pool he designed for his apartment building. So the next day I went and did some photos for him. There's also the oil and gas industry, agriculture and films. For anyone thinking of other industries to target. But it's been on my mind heavily, since I've returned to the States, to start making money with my drone. It really is a money making machine. Drone services are in demand. Thank you for posting this video!
Construction is a good one! I’m a contractor just bought the mini 3 pro because drone footage of my jobs/cliff jumping/mountain climbing etc will be a game changer!
This is a sign! I was just telling my wife I wanted to go to the next level. I messaged Ken a couple days ago inquiring about how to get started on this path.
Thanks for making this video Russ! I'm pretty sure you just pushed me over the edge.(In a good way) 😅
Glad to help!
Thank you for this video! I was scheduled to take my Part 107 Exam as I watched this video and your suggestion to enroll in Drone Pilot Ground School saved me! I had been through the FAA provided study guide for the exam and thought I was ready to test but after seeing this video your suggestion to enroll in a study course convinced me otherwise. It was Memorial Day weekend and I was able to take advantage of their discounted enrollment offer too. I was about 3 or 4 modules into the course and could easily see at this point I would have bombed the test without this additional preparation so once again thank you for this advice! By the way I just received my Temporary Airman Certificate....woohoo!
Russ, You have some great thoughts and words of encouragement for the newer people in the drone industry. I have my 107 and a couple of drones but am so busy with work I haven’t put the effort into building the business. Thanks for given the incentive I needed to get back in the right mindset.
As a side note: A few years back when the Baaken Shale play started booming, I would come to North Dakota to work in the oil fields. I love the Scandinavian Heritage Center and Magic City. The winters were brutal on this Texan. I wish I had a drone back then. I would have loved to document the activity of the “Oil Boom,” just like the old spindle top days. No one can believe what all was going on.|
Ha! The Winters are brutal on this North Dakotan!
Russ, thank you for this excellent video about starting a drone business. You covered a lot of great information in this short video. I did add a comment regarding insurance for any new business. Yes, a website is an inexpensive way to start a business and post a gallery of your photos and videos. Your new business adventure of selling postcards is outstanding. I wish you much success! Well Done, Russ!
Russ, thanks for the encouragement. I have my Part 107, three drones, a portfolio on Instagram, business cards, and what I think are some pretty decent photo and video chops. I've done a few sparse jobs here and there, but really need to get out and beat the pavement, as you say. Thanks for the nudge. I love your channel.
I just ordered the Drone Pilot ground School course and saved $100. I like the format and the way it is presented.
You will love it!
@@51Drones Yeah, so far so good. I'm about 25% done, but I'm sure I'll take the quizzes several times like you did.
I used the same course for my certification in 2016. They give lifetime access and I also used the course when I did my recertification. Great suggestion!
Its way easier said than done. I have a Mini 3 Pro and a Part 107 and ive been reaching out to all types of businesses for months and have only for 1 small gig. I have 3 tree service companies interested in getting photos taken but havnt got any jobs yet.
It’s a long play
Hey, one year later, what's your perspective about the drone market?
Good move on the study guide for the Part 107 exam, it's for the best. Something I've learned about taking federal exams in the course of upgrading my Coast Guard engineer's license is that the questions are mostly structured like this: one answer is correct, one is very wrong, and two answers will be somewhat close to being correct. Another piece of advice was passed along by my last CG exam administrator was to NOT go back and change answers. He said that almost invariably you change it to a wrong answer when you do that.
Just an FYI and PSA for everyone.
Russ thank you for the video. The competition for starting a drone business where I live in Florida is off the charts. However I talked with some friends both in Ohio and Pennsylvania and it's fairly wide open. It's not easy and you need to lay the groundwork before you start pounding the pavement. Establishing your business as a LLC is a must. You need to take marketing to another degree with everything from logos to a social media presence to a website. You also need to have the right equipment including multiple batteries, a backup drone, multiple SD cards, and portable mass storage. It can be done but It's not for everyone.
K
That's why I'd like to talk
anyone that tells you an LLC is a must has no clue about law! If you think that an LLC can totally isolate your personal wealth form a law suite, then LOL good luck in court Skippy
@@silbay indeed.
@@silbay Disagree. Setting up an LLC is a must plus is a must along with consulting with an attorney familiar with setting up businesses. This was not meant to be a step by step guide or all inclusive.
Great ideas to start a drone business. You can also, with the appropriate license, could contact weeding photographers and offer them your services for drone footages. Some of them work alone or just with another backup photographer and don’t have time during the ceremony and the after party to fly a drone. You could offer video clips and also photos as part of their packages.
Dude! This was the message I needed to hear to make the leap. Now time to study for that test. Thank you!
Hi Russ. Very, Very great informative video as always. This is some of the best information for someone interested in starting a business. I have a business 1-1/2 years now and not complaining one bit. I'm a Retired MARINE 30 yrs. Retired after Desert Storm then fully retired from the workforce in 2010 from the Aviation field. What I'm saying is that I can take it or leave it the drone business but why. This is the easiest and fun money I've ever made. Keep up the great work, I've been subbed to you forever it seems.
Really great video. I'm retired & been flying recreationally for a year now, with a DJI Mavic SE. Makes me want to get the 107 & start earning.
I use my drone to produce content for a video production company making advertisements, testimonies, promotional content, and more. Filming roofs, boats, schools, and construction sites are all ways I make money flying my drone. And I’m only 18. If you want it, you can do it!
P.S. I passed my part 107 first try in one week with a 77. Not amazing, but I passed!
I tried to reach out to every possible client I could think of for a month and not a single response lol I am just gonna fly recreationally now and make personal projects. I thoroughly enjoy flying and learning all the ins and outs.
I work for a survey company, started as a regular surveyor said i was interested in working with drones. Now im doing aerial surveys with both photography and LIDAR.
Russ! Great information! I love the fact that you encourage others to take the next step. I live along Lake Michigan and I think about all the watercraft in the harbors. Who wouldn’t want a nice image or video of their boat from a different viewpoint. My background in photography goes back to the film days and now my Mini3Pro will take me to new heights (pun intended). I’m a few years from retirement and looking for a new adventure. Thanks for the channel and all the great content it brings.
Thanks for the great content Russ. I've had my part 107 for about 3 years now and am always toying with the idea of making some side $$$. You've definitely given me some ideas and a reason to knock the dust off my Mavic 3 classic. Love your positive attitude and keep em coming!
Hi ! is it a good drone to start with ? Or should i take the mini 4 pro ?
Every photographer or videographer should have good drone (get certified ofc) I remember Tony and chelsea Northrop went on a business trip and they were so excited about their wildlife lenses and some big medium format equipment among other things, but everyone was excited and blown away by their casual drone footage. Not the expensive cameras or lenses. Drones while not new anymore are still exciting and different for most people. It’s enough to set you apart
I live in Louisiana, we recently had a hurricane come through - 🙄. A drone can be used to do property assessments. Use a QR code or similar to get permission to do survey's on the property. This can help those who have evacuated get an assessment for insurance purposes.
Thank you, I am very happy to save some money. Your announcement of the discount has expedited my plans to sign up for this UAV Part 107 education and training . I appreciate you bringing it to my attention. Best Regards
I did the drone pilot test without a course and it was fine. You might or might not need one depending on how well you test. If you test well, try without a course first.
I got in contact with some local photographers and get work from them. They call me regularly to assist with projects and photo shoots they have as an added feature in their business. They promote me and it's gotten me a lot of extra business.
Heads up, mavic 2 pro is closer to $800 after fees, look at those prices again, 0 are for 500 and almost all are 699, $800 is standard for mavic 2 pro currently,
Air 2s is definitely the most affordable high quality one, and can be purchased for around 700 with flymore (I would know as I’m selling one at 750 and mine isn’t the cheapest listed)
Good channel, however, I disagree with this post. Learn photography first. Getting the drone and the part 107 is the easier part. Becoming a skilled photographer could take years. First learn the basics of photography.
If you start promoting yourself as a photographer, but your work is junk, You’re gonna burn up all the prospects. Just because you’re by a hammer doesn’t make you a carpenter. Drone is just a tool.
I see way too much junk photography and cinematography out there.
Learn to fly well and learn photography first.
Great video Russ. There is serious money to be made in this business I believe. You highlighted a few ways of going about it. Real-estate, mapping, agricultural, tower inspections, thermal, etc, etc.
Perhaps a video laying out ALL of the fields that a drone "pilot" could go into and the approximate earnings associated with that particular field.
u call $20 serious money 🤑.
every junkie is a professional photographer and has a drone nowadays. now of course they live in the van and don't have mortgage payment and can afford charge way less.
these absolute no money in it.
I’d love to see a list of the different possible drone jobs!
@@confettihunterminus1 you should also see a list of the costs associated with the high paying jobs, like $30K drones with $20K worth of camera hanging below them
Writing off costs means nothing if you’re not making any revenue from your drone business! Keep that in mind.
Sure it does. If you're using it as a "side hustle" it will reduce your tax liability for ALL your income.
I love the advice you gave about never giving away your work for free👍
I started in FPV and have the idea of getting 2 or 3 sets of goggles and charge for an FPV ride. Then have a Cetus X setup and let them TRY flying FPV. $5 a ride. $10 to fly 3 to 4 minutes each about a battery flight. Just need the proper area to setup to fly. My wife says no way but I say everyone wants to try flying. At $10 to try it out and if they like it, they will pay to try again.
Totally agree
Not a bad idea!
@@51Drones after I posted this comment, Ken Heron did it for free with DJI. Lol. I can't compete with free!
Like minds in different parts of the world. By the way wanted to know, did you do this?
And how was the response?
@@TheRamdatta my nieces and nephews loved it. But I don't charge money.
Russ, another great video. Your approach and delivery on all things important to Drone operators is always spot on. Thanks for another really informative video. Great job!
When it comes to going around and taking pictures with the drone make sure you look at local laws. All the parks near me are no fly zones unless hired by the park itself. Also the city near me has an airport near by so you can't fly in certain areas and others you have to stay very low, but the cops to be "safe" like to think of the whole city as a no fly zone. They have been known to confiscate drones. You have to go to the station to pick it up and find the SD card that was in it to be wiped clean. They have apps that can show you in what area your in if you can fly or not and how high your allowed to go. I want to get into FPV but its so hard to find places to fly. But on the bright side I have a friend that makes good side money flying for a local real estate agent. She told him everyone in the office has a hard time finding people who can fly and get good shots and I'm just like. Wonder why? XD
Thanks for the motivation! I went back to my Pt 107 study after I watched this! 🍻
King School does a great job as well. A lot of Realtors try and do this themselves without having a 107. I have a few that pay me $100 a session, the big money for me was rich people that want to show off there house and property.
I am a USCG captain with a delivery business. Delvier boats, sail and power and do lots of work on the water. Thinking about added this drone to my business.
Construction site photos, during and after the project is complete. I am a commercial superintendent and I will be trying to get my company and others to use my services. Thank you for the video.
Seems like learning to fly FPV, getting something like the dji avata (unless you really know how to fly!) and getting shots similar to a walk/fly thru would really up that income. Especially if you can learn to fly good enough. It’s incredible what some pilots can do! Eg: high overhead shot, swoop down into a window, up one set of stairs, down the other and out over a pool or something would be awesome and expensive but better practice…..A LOT!
Get a controller and use a simulator on a pc. Those crashes are free! ;)
Stock content is the way in leaning as I’ve seen it mentioned a few times and it’s good to get some nice shots in of your own part of the world. Photos should be highest quality you can and vids should be anywhere between 15-60 seconds, again think about who would buy it for marketing etc. they don’t need long clips as usually they want multiple angles/movements, you sell each as it’s own thing.
You're totally right and I'm excited to have started this journey this year 😎
Can't wait how it will develop and where it will lead me 😉
I got my dji mini 2 drone almost 2 years ago now. And since then I have been using it for my real estate work. I think I will get in touch with insurance business and take photos for them
I just got the new Mavic 3 Pro, because I just started working with a construction company where I charge between 300-600€ per location, each location is about 2 hours of work including editing a short video and I'm doing 1-3 of these per month, so thats some nice money coming in on the side.
Maybe not the best in some opinions, but I think drone aggregators can be a good start. I only have a Mini 2 and no real editing skills, and I'm able to do roof inspections at about $75 for 30 mins of work. Take photos and upload through the app and you're done. I recently lined up 3 on a Saturday morning, took me 4 hrs total and made $225. I've turned more away than I've accepted due to full time job workload and family commitments.
Is there a particular app that you use to find the work?
@@roxiworldny there are several good ones. Bees360 has been my favorite so far.
Nice! I was thinking of getting into insurance adjusting and had heard of drone usage - but i also like the thought of just doing the drone service for inspections
We pretty much removed adjusters from using drones for inspections for roofing as it misses WAY to much. But they are handy to see wind damage and the over all scope of the roof, but especially for hail? Useless, need to get on the roof and inspect up close.@@colleenconrade3156
This is great! Got my drone roughly a year ago and have been thinking about ways to improve, thanks!
Thanks for this video. I've been needing to get my Part 107 ever since my supervisor dropped two boxes of parts in my office and said "See if you can get this to fly again".
I’m starting mine with a couple of friends. One has to take his part 107 exam but he gets the gist of things!!!
I'm perusing my license. Should come handy in the Surveying Business. I personally started just for fun my latest is the FVP DJI, I cannot tell you how fun that drone is lol. There are many sites that offer classes. Drones are and will forever be in our future lives
Not sure if anyone has mentioned this but I read that wedding video and photography can also be a good source of income for drone pilots. I'm still in the research phase of everything but I thought I'd share in case it helps someone.
Russ as it relates to the cost, we could include a combination of photos and videos of a certain quantity and charge per hr. or one flat rate. Usually that can excite a client knowing that they are getting more content and value for their $$$. It will be a win win. This video btw was very very informative. 👍👍
This is really awesome business ideas and tips, the best part is that these tips can be applied to many niches!
i think the hardest part for me will be the marketing part of things. the approaching business' and stuff. But this video got me hyped!
Just got my first drone. Paid $239 on Prime Day for a mini 4k.Took first flights at sunrise & sunset Got beautiful pics. Getting a little less afraid a pterodactyl will swoop out of the sky and grab it or it'll fall 10,000 feet into a never-ending sinkhole. 🤣🤣🤣 I really hope by year's end I've passed the test, gotten a pro 4 or Mavic and will be making money.
Thanks for sharing! Your video just popped up as a suggestion. I guess the YT algorithm saw I've been interested in this subject for a bit. There were also 333 comments when I saw this so that's a sign too that I should definitely look into getting started with this. You've got a new subscriber and IG follower.
I have a few side hustles, and do my own taxes ..... this guys on point. Hes just giving this away guys, if youre young just listen to what hes saying about everything, how he thinks, no need to copy, also do your own taxes with assistance if needed
I’ll be coming back to this video to say “thank you Russ” in a few months
Brilliant video, loved your thoughts and suggestions. Also appreciate you being open about your charging strategy. More of us that share and encourage each other, the better.
I disagree with giving away for free. At least monetarily. Free is the best way to get out there, gain real world experience, learn problems and solutions and increase your skills. If you ask for anything, ask for a public review. Ask for what they liked and didn’t like. Free is one of the best ways to grow, and when people can help you do that, without having to take a chance on their end with their money, even if it’s 10 or 20 dollars, it works out great for them and the starter business. 5-10 “Free Promotional Offers” in exchange for reviews, marketing, field experience with actual customers, as well as feedback and portfolio footage, is well worth any time that is put into a free offer. I agree with everything else 100% and this is great content! Thanks for taking the time to share!
2 days ago I bought the dji Matrice 30T. Hoping to expand my business, but your right, marketing is the key. Plenty of business out there for UAV pilots. Good video.
Such a perfect drone!
You spent that kind of money with no jobs lined up to require that equipment? Can't say much for your business knowledge. Let us know how you are doing in 6 months
@@silbay How do you line up work with no equipment? How do you get a job, then buy equipment, then learn how to use the equipment, in a timely matter to do the job you just got? I've been in business for myself for more than 23 years and have done quite well. Well enough that I could buy this equipment without worry, not desperation. You went down a path from my comments that was unnecessary, I just commented on marketing being a key component.
@@silbayCheer up buckaroo. Life will get better.
Thank you, you made me decide to start with the very same idea I had in mind. I will travel San Diego and try to buy my first DJI mini 2 se, that”s what I can afford. Have a great weekend!
Maybe look at more obscure events that haven’t been tapped into yet. Action sports have already been at the forefront of a lot of drone use, but what about rodeos, off-road competitions or clubs, shooting sports (firearms, archery, cowboy, etc.), equestrian (dressage, hunter/jumper), state/county fairs. Just started thinking about these things myself and thought others might be able to capitalize.
Don't forget, a "Service" can also be a "Product" on FB Marketplace.
Example:
5 min drone video = $$
15 min drone video = $$$
Thanks for the detailed review pal. I got everything I need to know
Great video Russ - as British Army veteran myself based in the UK, I love the idea of supporting Canine's for warriors :)
IRS did NOT allow me to write off the darkroom in one of the bedrooms in a house that I owned and lived in. They did allow writing off hardware/consumable costs but not rent or utilities. Hey thanks for the video.
It's the "home office" deduction and limited to areas with "exclusive use" to the business, so one simply needs to have this in mind and set up the space accordingly to qualify.
Yes, I did all that according to IRS rules and recommendations to no avail, and that was after a sit down with all three of us: IRS, accountant, me. Appeal would have cost 10k so I dropped it. IRS refusal cost me about a grand a year. Not the end of anything, just a minor irritation. I learned a lot about doing paperwork in my favor however, so the confrontation had some merit. I was never audited again after that.
At 62 I hope to keep building houses for the next 8 years. Drones of all types are just a hobby for me. Might be an option someday but not now. The market is booming and we can't build enough houses!
Never thought about a QR code on a business card. What a great idea for ANY card.
as soon as I saw the Scandinavian heritage park, I got flash backs haha! Thank you for the information!
13:10 beautiful shot of a beautiful property... nice work
Always such value from your channel, my friend!!
Other methods of money making may include industrial, engineering, construction, surveying, map creation, 3D modeling, etc.
The real estate industry is the perfect launch pad if you are just starting if you are willing to do interiors as well. You just cant charge a good enough rate for only real estate aerials unless you are doing some really high end homes.
Started doing factories that have expanded recently so they have up to date photos for presentations and capital meetings.
Great video and suggestions. Please keep in mind that some states are different than others when it comes to making money with a drone. Be sure you understand your local laws before you fly your drone commercially. My state of Minnesota requires registration of the drone with the state and also a business license. So you will need to start an officially business to fly commercially in the state of Minnesota. Also, in order to register the drone with the state for commercial purposes, you must have proof of insurance.
State law cannot trump Federal law so that state registration sounds totally illegal
Understand that the only entity who controls the airspace is the FAA. Check out Drone U's advocacy kit, it has the literal letter from the FAA telling states they cannot create a registration program. Its illegal.
I have performed aerial marketing videos for commercial businesses. Businesses with outdoor assists, i.e. agricultural trailer company, commercial livestock company.
I might suggest people form a corporation or legal entity and/or have good insurance. You never know where trouble may come from.. if you don't want to put your assets at risk, you need likely both- form a business entity AND have insurance before you do any commercial work.
It may be easy in your country! I’ve tried & tried in Kent England & haven’t made a penny!!!
This is a great video and super informative. Love that you are inspiring others to start their own business. I would honestly recommend charging more. If we have thousands of videographers flooding the industry only charging $100-ish per shoot then the product becomes a commodity and the value is degraded. Price should be based on value for the client, rather than your time.
holy smokes, that was freaking awesome...thank you!!! I'm 90%pulling trigger on one....I have some crazy ideas, can't wait!!!
Good information Russ, and thanks for sharing.
Thank you for this video. I appreciate how realistic, informative, and comprehensive it is. Well done
You have to make at least $600.00 before you can write-off income/expenses on a Schedule C.
I know that this is an old video, however I don't know if anybody else came up with this or not. There's the option of going to home inspectors and subcontracting out your flying to the home inspector. I know several home inspectors that are using drones to do roof inspections and overall exterior second floor inspections and at least two of them are not licensed, they're just throwing the Drone in the air and shooting the video if you could get with a home inspector who's doing this without a license and convince them that it would be safer for them and cheaper in the long run to hire you to do it rather than run the risk of getting caught that might open an opportunity there
Grand openings. Love's, for instance, likes to take a group photo of all its employees in the shape of a heart. It could turn into an aerial of their truck parking.
Thanks, i’m working on my business card now appreciate the encouragement
I had 2 air2's drones, an enterprise mapping drone that cost 7k plus, and experience using them, mapping, and modeling. I made 0 dollars. Everything legal, insured, and above bored. I couldn't even get companies to accept FREE services that typically would cost thousands. Not to mention my tax write offs didn't seem to help at all, I ended up paying more in taxes last year. I think most companies are happy paying insane prices to already established engineering and surveying firms. And the gig market is just laughable. I keep getting emails to drive hours for a 70 dollar job. Maybe its different in other parts of the country...
What apps or web sites do you use in the “gig market”? I’m aware of the BeesPilot app but haven’t tried it or any others yet.
I'm not seeing any advertising for drone jobs where I live. It's not a money making gig. There are agriculture jobs but they a few and far between. The FAA is making everything very difficult as well. If people are getting this license believing that they will make money they are in for a rude awakening
SUBSCRIBED what a heck of a channel! cant wait to watch every single video. thanks brother this is a great idea real estate photography has been an interest already, adding drones is going to double up my interest here. 500$ per property... i can live off of just one a week lol
I love your videos Russ. If I had something to add I'd say the number one thing drone pilots do wrong is.. selling themselves as drone pilots. Mechanics don't sell themselves as wrench turners, and photographers don't sell themselves as camera clickers. Your client does not truly care what drone you fly or the fact that you fly drones even, they care about the deliverables you give them. Being a drone pilot isn't what you get paid for, delivering a quality finished product is. I tell my new clients I will be their end-to-end data collection solution and in doing so I have expanded my business to include all sorts of new offerings besides drones and went from making a few hundred dollars for a "drone job" locally and now my flagship offering is $6,000 for what takes about 2 hours of work and I don't take jobs for less than $1,000 and have repeat business in 30 states.
We've all been doing it wrong for years, let's not confuse our tool with our product. All that being said, I love everything 51 Drones has been putting out for all these years.
Well stated
Sounds good but… I went to the trouble to get my drone license and was excited to start making extra money videoing. The trouble is everywhere I went, It was illegal to fly a drone so I gave up haven’t renewed my license.