Ever wondered what it takes to conduct drone photography in the heart of the Pacific Northwest? Navigating the world of drone photography requires more than just understanding your equipment and having an artistic eye. It’s a delicate balance of passion, precision, and knowledge of the regulations that govern our skies. In this post, we’re going to unravel the crucial guidelines, tips, and regulations every drone enthusiast should know when capturing the beauty of Seattle from the sky, particularly for property photography.
Get Certified
First things first, to provide professional drone photography and videography services, you need to be certified. If you’re planning to make a career out of your passion for drone photography, you need to have a Part 107 certification. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires this certification for anyone who wishes to use their drones for commercial purposes. This includes aerial videography, drone photo shooting, and especially, real estate or property photography. Earning this certification demonstrates your understanding of the complex operations associated with drone piloting and ensures you are operating within the legal framework.
Register Your Drone
Once you’re certified, the next step is to register your drone with the FAA. If your drone weighs more than 8.8 ounces or 250 grams, which is typically the case with most drones used for drone photography and videography, you must register it. The registration cost is only $5, and it includes an FAA identification number that you are required to display on the exterior of your drone. This is a small but crucial step in your journey to offering professional property photography services. Even lightweight drones need to be registered if they are being used for commercial purposes such as drone photography or videography.
Know the Rules of the Sky
Now that you’re certified and registered, it’s time to focus on the rules of the sky. Flying a drone, especially when capturing drone photos and aerial videography, comes with a lot of responsibility. The FAA has set rules that all drone pilots must follow:
- Fly at or below 400 feet
- Keep your drone within sight
- Don’t fly in restricted airspace or near other aircraft, especially near airports
- Don’t fly over groups of people, stadiums, sporting events, or emergency response efforts such as fires
- Don’t fly under the influence
These rules are not only for your safety but for the safety of others as well. Additionally, local areas have their own rules, such as the ban on drone use in National Parks. So, always make sure to check the specific rules of the area you plan to fly in. Some drones include geofencing tools to help identify restricted airspace. If your drone doesn’t have this feature, you can use the FAA’s B4UFLY app to ensure your flight plan is legal and safe.
Keep an Eye Out for Remote ID Requirements
In addition to the basic rules of flight, drone pilots should also be aware of the Remote ID requirements established by the FAA. Considered as a virtual license plate for the sky, Remote ID broadcasts your drone’s position and telemetry. As drone operations become more complex and widespread, this feature is seen as a necessary step for the future of drone usage. Even as a drone photographer, keeping an eye on such future requirements will help you stay ahead of the curve and prepared for any changes.
Local Regulations in Seattle
Seattle, being a bustling city with picturesque landscapes, offers a plethora of opportunities for drone photography and videography. However, it comes with its own set of local regulations. For instance, drone usage at special events in Seattle usually requires a City of Seattle Master Film Permit. This is something to keep in mind, especially if you’re planning to offer your drone videography services at such events. Also, drone usage is strictly prohibited in City of Seattle Parks. These local regulations are just as important as federal rules when it comes to operating your drone legally and safely in Seattle.
Conclusion
While drone photography and videography offer stunning perspectives and a unique medium for capturing the beauty of Seattle, it is crucial to be aware of and adhere to the FAA and local regulations. Doing so not only ensures that we can continue to provide top-notch drone photography and videography services, but it also guarantees the safety and privacy of everyone in our community. As always, we encourage responsible and respectful drone usage. Stay tuned for more updates and tips from your favorite Seattle drone experts here at Do It With A Drone. Fly safe!
