Starting an Aerial Photography Business
To start an aerial photography business, you need a quality camera, lenses, lighting equipment, a drone, computer, and editing software. Outline a comprehensive business plan covering your goals, objectives, strategies, and financial projections.
Licensing and Research
Get licensed and insured to operate drones legally. Research your local regulations.
Marketing and Promotion
Consider your niche – such as real estate, events, tourism – and market specifically to that audience. Build a portfolio of stunning aerial images to showcase your skills. Promote through social media and your professional website. Offer competitive rates while starting out to attract clients.
Skills and Growth
Stay up to date on the latest drone and camera technology. Continuously enhance your technique, composition, editing abilities. Join photography networks to connect with others.
Profitability of Aerial Photography
Income Potential
On average, a drone photographer makes around $50,000 a year. A well-planned and executed aerial photography business can generate anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000+ in its first year.
Pricing and Demand
Aerial photography business owners generally fare well in terms of income compared to photographers specializing in other niches. There is currently a huge demand for drone photographers in the real estate industry. Real estate shoots can range from $50 to $200 for a job.
Cost and Considerations
The cost of drone photography can vary based on location, project, drone used, length of shoot and experience of the photographer. Drone photography services can cost anywhere from $75 to $500 per hour on average.