

Your Drone Questions. Answered.
Drone Launch Academy
Have a drone question? We'll answer it. Welcome to "Your Drone Questions. Answered.", the podcast where we bring you the answers to your burning drone-related questions! Each episode, we take questions submitted by our audience and find industry experts to provide insightful and informative answers. Our interviews with these experts are typically 10-15 minutes long, making it easy to fit into your busy schedule. From flying techniques and gear to regulations and industry news, we cover it all. Whether you're a drone hobbyist, a professional, or just curious about the world of drones, "Your Drone Questions. Answered." is the podcast for you. So, send in your questions and join us as we explore the exciting world of drones!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 22, 2024 • 13min
YDQA: Ep 74- "How To Fly Drones In A Neighborhood Legally?"
In this episode of "Your Drone Questions. Answered", David tackles the common question of whether you can legally fly your drone in your neighborhood. He covers the key federal, state, and local laws and regulations you need to be aware of, including FAA airspace restrictions, privacy laws, and specific examples from states like California, Texas, North Carolina, and Florida.David also provides practical tips and best practices for being a considerate drone pilot, such as introducing yourself to neighbors, wearing a reflective vest, and respecting people's privacy. Even if you are following all the rules, he acknowledges that you may still encounter some unreasonable neighbors, so understanding your rights is important.This episode is a must-watch for any drone pilot looking to fly safely and legally in residential areas. Learn how to navigate the legal landscape and be a good neighbor when operating your drone. Check out the links below for the specific laws and regulations mentioned in the video.https://advance.lexis.com/open/document/openwebdocview/Cal-Civ-Code-1708-8/?pdmfid=10[…]ontentItem%3A5J6R-DR41-66B9-80J3-00000-00&pdcomponentid=4867http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0900-0999/0934/Sections/0934.50.htmlhttps://www.utsystem.edu/sites/default/files/offices/police/policies/UASFAQs.pdfhttps://www.ncleg.net/sessions/2013/bills/senate/pdf/s744v9.pdf (page 227)_____If you want to dive deeper into Drone Launch Academy and level up your drone skills, here are some links to some of the online drone courses we offer:Part 107 Exam Prep Course- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/drone-exam-study-course/Drone Mapping and Modeling Fundamentals- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/drone-mapping-and-modeling-fundamentals/Aerial Video A to Z- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/aerial-video-a-to-z/Aerial Photo Pro- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/aerialphotopro/Real Estate Media Pro- https://drone-launch-academy.webflow.io/Drone to $1K- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/drone-to-1k-2023/Aerial Roof Inspection Pro- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/aerial-roof-inspection-pro/

Aug 15, 2024 • 15min
YDQA: Ep 73- "Tips For Shooting Commercial Drone Videos For Clients"
In this episode of Your Drone Questions. Answered, host John Dickow interviews David Beedy, founder of Beedy Media, about shooting commercial drone video for clients. With over 30 years of video production experience, David shares valuable insights:What clients are looking for in commercial drone footageCombining conventional drone shots with FPV drone footageUsing the DJI Avata for indoor shootingTips for stabilizing shaky FPV footage in post-productionBest practices for sharing and delivering drone video to clientsAdvice for new drone pilots looking to work with clientsLearn how to elevate your drone videography and satisfy commercial clients in this information-packed episode. Whether you're an aspiring drone pilot or experienced professional, you'll gain practical tips to improve your craft and grow your business._____If you want to dive deeper into Drone Launch Academy and level up your drone skills, here are some links to some of the online drone courses we offer:Part 107 Exam Prep Course- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/drone-exam-study-course/Drone Mapping and Modeling Fundamentals- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/drone-mapping-and-modeling-fundamentals/Aerial Video A to Z- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/aerial-video-a-to-z/Aerial Photo Pro- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/aerialphotopro/Real Estate Media Pro- https://drone-launch-academy.webflow.io/Drone to $1K- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/drone-to-1k-2023/Aerial Roof Inspection Pro- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/aerial-roof-inspection-pro/

Aug 8, 2024 • 14min
YDQA: Ep 72- "Tips For Capturing Drone Video At Night"
In this episode of Your Drone Questions Answered, host John Dickow welcomes back Dave Downey, Senior Event Specialist at BCC Live, to discuss tips for capturing quality drone footage at night.Key topics covered:Challenges of shooting with prosumer drones at nightImportance of filming lit subjectsUsing dusk/dawn lighting tricksPros and cons of auto settings vs manual controlHigher-end drone options for night shootingConsiderations when filming fireworks displaysThe value of practice and test flightsDave shares insights from his extensive experience using drones for live event production. Whether you're a hobbyist or aspiring professional, learn how to reduce graininess and capture better nighttime drone video.Got a drone question? Submit it at YDQA.io or join the Drone Launch Connect community!#DronePhotography #NightDroneFootage #DroneTips

Aug 1, 2024 • 10min
YDQA: Ep 71- "What Is The Best App For Waypoint Missions? "
Discover the top applications for planning and executing drone waypoint missions with David Young, founder of Drone Launch Academy. Learn about options ranging from affordable apps like Litchi to more advanced solutions like DroneLink and DroneDeploy. Whether you're a hobbyist or professional drone pilot, this episode covers free and paid options to automate your drone flights, capture perfect orbits, and streamline your workflow.Key topics covered:Popular waypoint mission apps: Litchi, DroneLink, DroneDeployFree options for beginners: Pix4D CaptureEnterprise solutions: DJI Pilot, UGCSPlanning missions on computer vs. mobileApplications for construction, inspections, and videographyCompatibility with different drone modelsLearn how to take your drone flying to the next level with automated waypoint missions!#DroneWaypoints #FlightAutomation #DroneApps #Litchi #DroneLink #DroneDeploy #DJIPilot #Pix4DCapture #DroneMissions #DroneMapping #ConstructionDrones #DroneInspections #DroneVideography #DJIDrones #DroneLaunchAcademy #DroneAutomation #WaypointMissions #DroneOrbits #DroneFlightPlanning #DroneTechnology

Jul 25, 2024 • 9min
YDQA: Ep 70- "How To Fly Drones At Night In Class D Airspace?"
Can you fly your drone at night in Class D airspace? David Young, founder of Drone Launch Academy, breaks down the rules and requirements for nighttime drone operations in controlled airspace.Key points covered:Part 107 nighttime flying regulationsRequirements for anti-collision lightingDifferences between controlled and uncontrolled airspaceHow to get authorization for night flights in Class D airspaceOverview of airspace classes (B, C, D, E, G)Whether you're a new drone pilot or looking to expand your operations, this episode provides essential information on navigating FAA regulations for nighttime flights.Got a drone question? Submit it at ydqa.io or join our Drone Launch Connect community!#drones #Part107 #FAAregulations #nightflying #controlledairspace

Jul 18, 2024 • 10min
YDQA: Ep 69- "What Features Are Needed In A Drone To Measure Plant Health?"
Discover the essential drone features for measuring plant health on golf courses and beyond! 🌱🏌️♂️🚁In this episode of Your Drone Questions. Answered, John Dickow interviews Kendall Marquardt, founder of Precision Drone Mapping Services, about:Multispectral drone technology for assessing turf healthDJI Multispectral Enterprise 3 drone capabilitiesPost-flight data processing and analysis platformsColor-coded plant health indicatorsArbor Pearl software for tree managementTips for aspiring drone business ownersLearn how drones are revolutionizing golf course maintenance and resource management. Whether you're a drone enthusiast, golf course superintendent, or aspiring aerial mapping professional, this episode provides valuable insights into the latest plant health measurement techniques.Subscribe for more drone industry tips, technology updates, and expert interviews!#DroneMapping #GolfCourseMaintenance #MultispectralImaging #PlantHealth #DroneBusiness #DJIEnterprise3 #AerialSurvey #TurfManagement #DroneIndustry #YourDroneQuestionsAnswered

Jul 11, 2024 • 11min
YDQA: Ep 68- "What Vertical To Pursue in the Drone Industry?"
Thinking of starting a drone business but not sure which industry to focus on? In this episode, John Dickow of Drone Launch Academy interviews Nathan Sheets, founder of The Drone Ranger, about the top drone industry verticals to consider.Key topics covered:How to research and choose profitable drone industry verticalsFactors to consider when selecting an industry (personal interest, profitability, connections)Tips for market research and testing different verticalsAdvice for new drone entrepreneurs just starting outNathan shares insights from his 4 years of experience running a successful drone service company. Whether you're interested in real estate, construction, telecommunications, or other sectors, this episode offers valuable guidance on breaking into the drone industry.Don't miss this informative discussion on finding your niche in the growing world of commercial drones!#DroneIndustry #DroneServices #DroneEntrepreneur #DroneBusinessTipsHave a drone question? Submit it at YDQA.io or join our Drone Launch Connect community!

Jul 4, 2024 • 14min
YDQA: Ep 67- "Marketing Tips for Drone Business Owners"
In this episode of Your Drone Questions. Answered (YDQA), host John Dickow talks with Nathan Sheets, founder of The Drone Ranger, about effective marketing strategies for drone businesses.Key topics covered:Online vs offline marketing approachesBuilding a strong web presence and portfolioNetworking and in-person marketing tacticsTips for creating a professional websiteUtilizing social media for brand buildingNathan shares insights from his experience growing The Drone Ranger since 2021, offering services in construction, telecom, and videography. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your drone business, this episode provides actionable marketing tips to help you reach more clients.Check out The Drone Ranger at https://www.dronerangerky.com/Got a drone question? Submit it at https://ydqa.io or join the Drone Launch Connect community!#DroneMarketing #DroneBusinessTips #YDQA"

Jun 27, 2024 • 10min
YDQA: Ep 66- "How Much Does a Drone License Cost?"
In this episode of Your Drone Questions Answered, John Dickow and David Young break down the costs associated with getting a drone license. They cover:Recreational vs. commercial drone useThe free TRUST certification for recreational pilotsPart 107 commercial drone license costs ($175 exam fee)Optional training course costs ($150-$600)Drone costs for beginners ($29-$500+)Total investment for commercial drone pilots ($700-$1000+)David explains the differences between recreational and commercial drone use, exam requirements, and provides cost-saving tips. Whether you're a hobbyist or aspiring professional, this video gives you a clear picture of the financial investment needed to become a licensed drone pilot.Want your drone question answered? Submit it at YDQA.io or join our Drone Launch Connect community!For more resources on drone piloting and business, visit DroneLaunchAcademy.com#DroneLicense #Part107 #DronePilot #FAA #DroneTraining

Jun 20, 2024 • 14min
YDQA: Ep 65- "How Are Drones Used To Find Lost Pets?"
In this episode of Your Drone Questions. Answered, host John Dickow interviews Ryan Stotsky, the owner and operator of Zero to 400 Drone Services. Ryan shares his unique business of using drones with thermal cameras to help locate lost pets. He walks through the process of how he receives calls from distraught pet owners, assesses if a drone search is viable based on factors like airspace, and then conducts nighttime thermal imaging flights to try to detect the pet's heat signature.Ryan provides fascinating insights into guiding owners to the pet's location using the drone's spotlights and GPS coordinates, highlighting memorable rescues where owners came agonizingly close to the pet before his guidance led them right to it. He stresses the emotional nature of these operations and the joy of being able to reunite families with their fur babies.The interview also covers helpful tips for aspiring drone entrepreneurs, with Ryan advising them to identify unmet needs in their area that drone services could fill. His journey showcases how finding an underserved niche like pet search and rescue can lead to a rewarding drone business that truly makes a difference in people's lives.


