Your Drone Questions. Answered.

We would like to thank our sponsor of this episode, AutoPylot. AutoPylot is an easy-to-use, all-in-one drone flight planning app.It’s an FAA-approved provider of both B4UFLY and LAANC services.On AutoPylot, you can plan your flights, check airspace and weather, and complete flight checklists to make sure you’re flying safely.AND, they’ve just launched a new drone insurance feature.You can easily purchase insurance and access your policy from right inside the AutoPylot app.If you want to give AutoPylot a try, you can download their free app on iOS or Android. And don’t forget to claim your drone insurance quote!https://apps.apple.com/us/app/autopylot/id1605785075 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.autopylot.app_v2&hl=en&gl=UShttps://www.autopylot.io/____In this episode of Your Drone Questions Answered (YDQA), John Dickow from Drone Launch Academy dives into the difference between FAA-approved no-fly applications and DJI's no-fly application, FlySafe. Our expert guest is Tauty Shalna, the founder of AutoPylot, an all-in-one drone flight planning app.AutoPylot is highlighted as an FAA-approved provider that simplifies drone flight planning by integrating features like airspace checking, weather updates, flight checklists, and now even drone insurance purchase directly within the app. Tauty emphasizes the importance of using FAA-approved apps for comprehensive airspace information and regulatory compliance, contrasting them with DJI's FlySafe, which lacks FAA approval and may not provide the same level of detailed airspace data.For more drone-related questions and insights, visit YDQA.io or join the Drone Launch Connect community. Stay tuned for more episodes and happy flying!____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/

Welcome to another episode of "Your Drone Questions Answered"! In this episode, John Dickow from Drone Launch Academy and Dusty Jolley, the community manager at Drone Launch Connect, discuss the world of FPV drones.Dusty shares insights on the differences between FPV drones and traditional drones, highlighting the immersive experience of flying FPV drones and the control it offers. He also delves into why building your own FPV drone can be a rewarding experience, offering customization options and cost-effective repairs.Join us as we explore the exciting world of FPV drones and learn why they are becoming increasingly popular among drone enthusiasts and professionals alike.Don't forget to check out Drone Launch Connect and use the promo code "DLC community" for a special offer to join the community and access valuable resources for your drone journey!If you have any drone questions, feel free to send them our way, and we'll make sure to find the answers for you. Happy flying!

Welcome back to "Your Drone Questions Answered"! In this episode, John Dickow from Drone Launch Academy sits down with David Young, the founder of Drone Launch Academy, to delve into the latest trends and lucrative opportunities in the drone industry.David shares invaluable insights gathered from the recent season of the "Drone to 1K" podcast, where successful drone entrepreneurs reveal their strategies for generating income using drones. Drawing from over 60 episodes of in-depth conversations with industry leaders, David unveils the most promising avenues for starting a drone business in 2024.From mapping and progress updates in construction projects to high-end FPV drone fly-through videos for luxury properties, David offers a comprehensive breakdown of where the most significant opportunities lie. He discusses the evolving landscape of construction companies embracing drones for site documentation, highlighting the immense value drones bring in mitigating disputes and ensuring project accuracy.Furthermore, David explores the niche of FPV drone videos, revealing their appeal in capturing breathtaking perspectives for luxury real estate and high-profile events like golf tournaments and Formula One races. He emphasizes the importance of skill and creativity in mastering FPV drone flying, making it a less crowded but rewarding segment for aspiring drone entrepreneurs.Lastly, David touches upon the enduring demand for general aerial photography and videography services, particularly in the real estate sector. Despite facing competition, he underscores the potential for substantial earnings by delivering quality work and establishing efficient client networks.Whether you're a seasoned drone pilot or a budding entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies to thrive in the dynamic world of drone business. Tune in for expert advice, success stories, and inspiration to take your drone venture to new heights!Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the sky and unlock the full potential of your drone business. Submit your drone questions on YDQA.io or join the Drone Launch Connect community to connect with like-minded enthusiasts and industry experts. 

In this episode of "Your Drone Questions. Answered," host John Dickow tackles the common question: how much to charge clients for drone video services and licensing? He's joined by FAA certified drone videographer and photographer, Kevin Olson.Kevin emphasizes that pricing depends on various factors, including experience level and geographical location. Starting with free work to build a portfolio is common, but as one progresses, pricing should reflect the value of time and expertise.For fresh drone video shoots, rates might range from $100-$150 initially. However, factors like travel, editing time, and complexity of the project should be considered. It's essential not to undervalue oneself, ensuring fair compensation for time and effort.When it comes to licensing existing drone footage, Kevin shares insights from his own experience. Prices can vary widely based on usage, clientele, and negotiation skills. For instance, licensing a short clip to NBC earned him $1000, demonstrating the importance of valuing one's work appropriately.Moreover, Kevin highlights the significance of networking within the drone community, sharing insights and collaborating with fellow professionals rather than seeing them as competitors. This collaboration can lead to future opportunities and referrals.In conclusion, Kevin advises drone enthusiasts not to undervalue their skills and to have confidence in pricing their services accordingly. With proper valuation and networking, one can build a successful drone videography business.

Welcome back to another episode of Your Drone Questions Answered! In this episode, John Dickow and David Young tackle the common misconception that drones can't be flown in national parks. David breaks down the legal pathway to flying drones in these protected areas, shedding light on the exceptions outlined in Policy Memorandum 14-05 issued by the United States Department of the Interior National Park Service.https://www.nps.gov/subjects/policy/upload/PM_14-05.pdfLearn about the detailed process of obtaining a Special Park Uses Permit, the criteria park superintendents consider, and the essential conditions drone operators must adhere to for safe and legal operations within national parks. From FAA regulations to environmental considerations, David provides valuable insights for drone enthusiasts looking to fly responsibly in these scenic locations.If you've ever wondered about the possibility of flying drones in national parks, this episode is a must-watch! Have your own drone-related question? Send it over to ydqa.io or join the discussion in the Drone Launch Connect community.

Welcome back to another episode of Your Drone Questions Answered! In this episode, John Dickow from Drone Launch Academy is joined by Alex Harris, a videographer, photographer, and drone pilot, to delve into the world of ND filters and their application in videography and photography.Have you ever wondered what ND filters are and how they're used? Alex breaks it down in simple terms, likening them to sunglasses for your drone's camera. He explains the significance of ND filters in controlling exposure, especially in bright daylight conditions, to achieve smoother and more cinematic motion blur in videos.From understanding the basics of ND filters to practical tips on using them effectively, Alex shares valuable insights for both beginners and experienced drone enthusiasts. Learn why ND filters are essential for video work and how they differ from polarizer filters. Plus, discover practical advice for aspiring drone videographers, including the importance of planning your shots and creating local town reels to showcase your skills and attract potential clients.If you're looking to elevate your drone videography and photography skills, this episode is a must-watch! Tune in for expert advice, practical tips, and insightful discussions on all things drones.Got a burning question about drones? Submit it at YDQA.io or join the Drone Launch Connect community to engage with fellow drone enthusiasts and experts. Keep soaring high in the sky with Your Drone Questions Answered!

In this episode of Your Drone Questions Answered, John Dickow and David Young tackle the topic of drones for kids. David, a father of five and founder of Drone Launch Academy, shares his insights and experiences on this matter. They discuss rules and regulations for kids flying drones, including the TRUST exam mandated by the FAA. David also provides practical tips based on his firsthand experiences, such as starting with indoor flying to avoid wind issues and the importance of avoiding trees. They delve into affordable drone options on platforms like Amazon, emphasizing the simplicity of control and the need for parental supervision. Additionally, David shares a fun game involving Nerf guns and drones. Whether you're a parent considering a drone for your child or a curious enthusiast, this episode offers valuable information and entertaining anecdotes. Tune in for expert advice and exciting drone discussions! If you have any drone-related queries, don't hesitate to submit them through ydqa.io or the Drone Launch Connect community. 

Welcome back to Your Drone Questions Answered! In this captivating episode, John Dickow is joined once again by Dave Downey, President and Senior Events Specialist at BCC Live, as they delve deep into the fascinating world of live drone broadcasting. Get ready to embark on an insightful journey as Dave shares invaluable insights, strategies, and tips garnered from his extensive experience in the field.Discover how drones are ingeniously integrated into live broadcasts, elevating the viewer experience with breathtaking aerial perspectives. From sporting events to scenic vistas, Dave unveils the intricate process of synchronizing camera feeds, transmitting drone signals, and incorporating dynamic shots seamlessly into live productions.Gain a profound understanding of the technology behind successful live drone operations, including the selection of streaming platforms, broadcasting software, and strategies for managing latency. Explore the crucial role of battery management in live broadcasting, as Dave sheds light on effective strategies for mitigating risks and optimizing performance.Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, this episode offers a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. Join us as we unravel the complexities and nuances of live drone broadcasting, and unlock the potential to elevate your aerial storytelling to new heights.

Welcome back to another episode of "Your Drone Questions Answered" where John Dickow, alongside David Young, founder of Drone Launch Academy, tackles a critical topic – the rules and regulations surrounding the consumption of alcohol and drugs while operating dronesDavid begins by emphasizing the potential dangers of combining drones with substances like alcohol or drugs, emphasizing that such a combination is never a good idea. He proceeds to break down the regulations for commercial drone operators under Part 107, drawing attention to the specific provisions outlined in section 107.27. These regulations encompass factors such as the time frame within which a pilot must abstain from alcohol before operating a drone, the prohibition of flying under the influence, and the restriction on using drugs that affect judgment or coordination.David delves into various scenarios to illustrate how these regulations may apply in real-life situations. For instance, he discusses the implications of having even a single drink within eight hours of drone operation, the risks associated with having a blood alcohol level of 0.04 or higher, and the consequences of appearing under the influence of drugs or alcohol during a flight.Transitioning to the recreational side of drone flying, David introduces the 44809 exemption, which governs model aircraft and recreational drones. He points out the importance of operating under the rules and policies of model aircraft organizations, such as the Academy of Model Aeronautics. Even in recreational settings, the administrator of the FAA retains the authority to enforce actions against individuals operating drones in a manner that endangers the national airspace system.The episode also touches upon the potential penalties and fines for violating these regulations, emphasizing that fines could apply to both recreational and commercial drone operators. David stresses the severity of consequences, especially when mixing drugs or alcohol with drone operation, urging all drone enthusiasts to prioritize safety and adhere to established guidelines.John and David discuss the potential loss of licenses and the release of medical records to the FAA, highlighting the gravity of breaking these regulations. They emphasize the importance of understanding and following the rules to ensure safe and responsible drone flying.

Welcome back to another episode of Your Drone Questions Answered! In this episode, John Dickow explores the question of which drones capture the highest quality video. Joined by Dave Downey, President of BCC Live, they delve into the world of drone videography.Dave shares insights into his background at Boulder County Communications, specializing in outdoor sporting events. Drones have become essential in capturing dynamic shots for live broadcasts, offering unique perspectives that were challenging to achieve before.The discussion covers the evolution of drone technology over the years, with Dave highlighting the importance of understanding the specific requirements for the type of video you aim to capture. Factors like resolution, frame rate, and the purpose of the footage play a crucial role in choosing the right drone.Dave recommends the DJI Mini Pro 3 (or Mini 3 Pro) for its balance of features and cost, emphasizing the importance of considering your needs and budget when selecting a drone. He touches on the advantages of shooting in 4K, allowing for flexibility in post-production editing.Throughout the conversation, Dave stresses the value of community engagement, citing social channels and Facebook groups as valuable resources for learning from real users' experiences. He encourages aspiring drone enthusiasts to research, set goals, and persevere in pursuing their passion.Stay tuned and see you in the sky!