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How to Start a Drone Photography Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   February 3, 2024

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The drone services industry is taking off. Recent reports show the global market for commercial drone services reached $4.5 billion in 2021, with a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1%. The U.S. global drone camera market was $5.98 billion in 2022, with a shocking CAGR of 32.1%.

Aerial photography is the main reason for most drone photography. As camera and flight stabilization technologies continue to advance, drones become increasingly popular among photographers and videographers. Drones are used in a variety of industries including wedding and real estate photography.

In this guide, we’ll talk about how to start a drone photography business. Some topics being covered include market research, competitive analysis, registering an EIN, accounting protocols, and more. If you want to run your own drone photography business, check this out.

1. Conduct Drone Photography Market Research

Drone photographers must start a business plan like anybody else, with market research. There are two main types of market research, primary and secondary.

Primary research is information you get yourself. Examples include calling local competitors to learn about pricing and service models. Secondary research is research provided by a third party. This data might come from a government statistics website to tell you about market saturation.

Market research tells you a lot about your business prospects, including the following:

Trends in the Drone Market

Drone type is one of the trends to check on before purchasing your drone photography business equipment. According to Grand View Research , most drone photography businesses choose rotary blade-style drones. Fixed-wing and hybrid models are also allowed.

Service Pricing and Income

Knowing how much you can make as a drone photography business is important going in.

On average a single drone photographer makes $50,290 per year. On the low end. drone photographers earn $17,500 and on the high end $122,000. Different job types impact the amount you earn on any given task.

Uses of Drone Photography

There are many services offered by drone photographers, including:

• Real estate
• Surveying land
• Damage assessment
• damage assessment
• agriculture processing

There’s a recent influx of drone camera use in agriculture, construction, energy, and public safety.

Equipment Costs

The upfront costs of top-quality drone equipment can be steep, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 and up for higher-end enterprise models. The expanding drone photography market provides ample avenues to recoup investments.

2. Analyze the Competition

Thorough competitive analysis is crucial when assessing the drone photography landscape in any given region. Some things to consider during research are market saturation and how many drone photographers are in your area. Other things to factor in include service offerings and drone models.

There are a range of drone models, each with pros and cons. Some have one camera, others multiple. Some use fixed wings, others rotary.

In terms of energy, most competitors are using electric drones, compared to gas-powered, or a hybrid model.

Now that you know what you’re looking for, where do you look? Here are some tips for finding relevant competitor information.

Use Online Directories

Search online directories and platforms like Yelp to identify established photography studios offering drone photography services. Analyze their websites and marketing materials to gauge factors like pricing, positioning, types of clients, and portfolio quality.

Check Online Presence with Search

Evaluate online presence by compiling a list of drone photographers across review sites, Google searches, and social media. Analyze the SEO strength of their websites based on page rank and keyword visibility. Examine social followings, engagement levels, and customer sentiment in reviews.

Look at Social Media Hashtags

Exploring aerial photography hashtags on Instagram digs up active drone pilots in a region. You can also see the types of content receiving high engagement. Monitoring drone community forums like Dronethusiast also provides insight into key players and reputation.

3. Costs to Start a Drone Photography Business

Starting a commercial drone photography business requires significant upfront investment. High-quality equipment, licensing, insurance, and other expenses add up. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you’ll encounter as you start an aerial photography business.

Start-up Costs

Start-up costs are expenses you meet as a new professional drone photographer. These include costs such as:

• Photography drones: $5,000 to $20,000 and up for an enterprise-level quadcopter with a robust camera, extended flight time, and safety features.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License – $150
• Part 107 license: You must pass an aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved center. Allow $150 for prep materials and test fees.
• Liability Insurance – $1,200 per year
• Professional Photo/Video Editing Software – $10 to $50/month
• Photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom run $10-$20/month. Video editing software such as Premiere or Final Cut Pro cost $20-$50 monthly.
• Computer and Monitor – $1,500+
• A high-end laptop or desktop PC – $1,500 and up for suitable specs.
• Professional Association Fees – $275
• Miscellaneous – $500 (domain registration, cloud storage subscriptions, printing marketing materials, acquiring permits, and other initial administrative expenses).

With the equipment, licensing, insurance, and core infrastructure in place, photographers can expect around $7,000 to $25,000 in start-up costs.

Ongoing Costs

Ongoing costs are the expenses your business continues to meet throughout its lifespan. This includes inventory replenishment, maintenance, and rental fees. Here’s a breakdown of ongoing costs for a standard drone photography business:

• Equipment maintenance and replacement – $200/month
• Drone insurance premiums – $100/month
• Website hosting, maintenance – $100/month
• Software subscriptions – $100/month
• Professional association dues – $25/month
• Office supplies/utilities – $100-$200/month

Annual costs like domain renewals, liability insurance premiums, licensing renewals, equipment upgrades, and marketing expenses can run an additional $5,000 per year.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

When starting any business, one of the most important legal decisions is choosing your entity structure. For a drone photography company, the entity you form can impact taxes, personal liability, and options for growth. We’ll compare the most common structures:

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the simplest option. You operate as an individual with unlimited personal liability. Any debts or legal actions apply directly to you rather than a separate business entity.

Pros for drone photography:

• Easy and inexpensive to form – just start operating
• No corporate taxes – profits pass through to your taxes
• Maximum control as sole owner
• Unlimited personal liability if sued for drone mishaps
• Difficulty raising investment capital for growth

Partnership

A partnership involves two or more co-owners sharing profits and management duties.

• Relatively easy to form via partnership agreements
• Profits pass through to partners’ taxes
• Partners are jointly liable for debts and lawsuits
• Shared ownership can lead to disputes on strategy

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An LLC combines pass-through taxation with limited personal liability protection.

• Owners’ assets protected from debts/lawsuits
• Profits pass through as personal income
• Additional owners/investors easy to add
• More complex formation process than sole proprietorships
• Requires drafting an LLC operating agreement

Corporation

A corporation is a legal entity fully separate from its owners.

• Owners not personally liable for corporate debts/lawsuits
• Raising funds through the sale of stock shares
• The most complex and expensive entity to create and maintain
• Subject to corporate income taxes on profits

An LLC provides the best blend of protections while enabling pass-through income tax treatment. This is often a top choice for a drone photography business.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

One key legal task before operating any business is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.

An EIN is essentially a Social Security number for your business. It uniquely identifies your company for tax and reporting purposes. You’ll need an EIN to open a business bank account, apply for licenses/permits, hire employees, and file taxes. An EIN is required when registering your business as an LLC or corporation.

Applying for an EIN is free and fast directly through the IRS website. Follow the step-by-step application and you will receive your EIN immediately. Make sure to print/save the confirmation notice.

Along with your EIN, take the necessary steps to register with your state to collect and remit any required sales taxes. Failing to collect and submit sales tax exposes your business to hefty penalties.

6. Setup Your Accounting

Meticulous financial record-keeping is crucial for a drone photography business. It helps track revenue, expenses, profitability, and tax liabilities. For drone photography ventures, setting up organized accounting processes from the start prevents major headaches down the road.

Get a Business Bank Account

Begin by separating personal and business finances. Open a dedicated business checking account through your bank or an online provider to keep company funds isolated.

Use Accounting Software

Establish an accounting system to categorize and log all transactions. User-friendly software like QuickBooks automates records of income and expenses by syncing to your business bank/credit card accounts. Expect costs of $10-$50 per month.

Hire an Accountant

While accounting software is indispensable, partnering with an accountant provides professional guidance tailored to your situation. A qualified accountant can handle tasks like:

• Setting up your chart of accounts and accounting system
• Providing bookkeeping and reconciliation services
• Preparing sales tax filings
• Helping manage payroll/HR requirements
• Filing annual business tax returns

Expect to invest around $200 to $500 monthly for full bookkeeping services. Come tax time, accountants typically charge $500-$2,000 to prepare federal and state filings. However, proper year-round accounting reduces year-end work.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Applying for a small business credit card brings benefits like separate spending and rewards. Providers weigh factors like business revenue, credit score, years in business, and industry risk to determine credit limits. Expect a lower limit initially that increases as your company demonstrates financial soundness.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Before taking flight, new drone photography businesses require permits and licenses. Check with the U.S. Small Business Administration for federal requirements. The SBA also has a local search tool to look at state and city permits.

The most crucial license for commercial drone operators is the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Remote Pilot License ( FAA Part 107 certificate). Passing the aeronautical knowledge test earns your Remote Pilot certificate to fly drones under 55 lbs. in uncontrolled airspace. Renewals are required every 24 months.

The FAA Part 107 rules limit drone flights to 400 feet altitude and within visual line-of-sight. You can request waivers to exceed these restrictions for projects like tall structure inspections. Make sure all necessary waivers are secured for the planned flight activities.

For drone shoots on public property, you may need special permits from local authorities. Thoroughly check municipal codes for any restrictions on locations or times of use. Parks, beaches, and protected wilderness areas often have explicit drone regulations.

8. Get Business Insurance

Carrying adequate insurance is crucial to protect the drone photography business against liabilities. Without coverage, just one incident could permanently ground your business.

Here’s a closer look at the risks involved.

• A drone crash causes $250,000 in structural damage to a client’s building.
• Equipment theft during a shoot leaves you unable to operate and out $15,000.
• A battery malfunction ignites a fire that causes injuries and property damage.

The right insurance policies mitigate these risks that could otherwise inflict severe financial harm or bankruptcy:

• General liability – Covers property damage/bodily injuries caused by your operations.
• Commercial UAV policy – Protects your drone equipment and accessories.
• Errors & omissions – Safeguards against claims of inadequate services.
• Data/image loss – Reimburses clients if shoots fail to capture usable media.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) – Bundles property/liability coverage.

Purchasing coverage begins with requesting quotes from providers like Coverdrone , and SkyWatch.AI . When comparing policies, verify:

• Your particular equipment models are covered
• Liability limits align with replacement costs
• Operations like night flights or urban areas are eligible
• worldwide coverage for travel shoots

Expect annual premiums of around $1,200 to $5,000 based on your risk profile and coverage limits.

9. Create an Office Space

While much of the work is done in the field, securing office space provides an essential home base for operations. It also provides privacy for consultations, equipment storage, and media processing.

Some common office types for a drone photography business include:

Home Office

Converting a spare room into a basic office typically costs under $2,000 for a desk, chair, computer, and storage. No commute provides flexibility and work/life integration. However, home offices lack distinction from personal spaces.

Coworking Space

Shared offices like WeWork offer affordable plug-and-play environments with flexible month-to-month plans starting at around $300 per month. Networking opportunities, meeting rooms, and administrative support save startups time and money. Choose from private, semi-private, or shared spaces.

Retail Space

For drone operators who sell equipment or offer walk-in photo printing, a storefront allows product displays and local visibility. Triple-net leases around $3,000 per month provide full autonomy but require extensive build-outs. Retail space works best for established operators.

Commercial Office

Leasing dedicated office space provides room for staff expansion later on. Expect starting rates of $1,000-$1,500 monthly for simple commercial suites. While costly, traditional offices project professionalism for client meetings.

10. Source Your Equipment

Launching a drone photography business requires acquiring specialized gear to capture professional aerial media. From drones and cameras to accessories and software, operators have several options to secure the necessary equipment affordably.

Major online retailers like B&H Photo and Amazon offer the latest drone models, cameras, and accessories at MSRP prices. Local camera stores may also carry select inventory. Buying new gives you cutting-edge equipment under warranty but at premium pricing. Expect to spend $10,000 fully outfitted with pro-grade gear.

Buying Used

Purchasing used drones and equipment can greatly reduce upfront costs. Scour sites like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace for lightly used drones, gimbals, and cameras discounted 30% to 60% off retail prices. Perform due diligence inspecting used gear and verify remaining warranty coverage if purchasing from another operator.

Short-term rental services like Lensrentals allow testing drones, cameras, and accessories for 1 to 7 days at reasonable rates before committing to large purchases. Rentals provide flexibility but become pricey for ongoing long-term needs. Useful for trying options to determine ideal gear.

Some specialized equipment providers offer leasing programs for drones and industrial cameras designed specifically for commercial use. Monthly payments allow spreading costs over time rather than large lump sums. However, leasing terms tend to run for 12-24 months.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Developing a strong brand identity helps a drone photography business stand out, build credibility, and foster customer recognition. Essential steps for new startups include:

Getting a Business Phone Number

Purchasing a dedicated business phone number lends legitimacy versus using a personal cell. Options like RingCentral provide toll-free and local numbers with professional call routing starting around $30 per month. Custom greetings and extensions reinforce branding.

Creating a Logo and Brand Assets

A polished logo provides visual identity and memorability. Drone companies should consider an icon-based mark conveying key themes like flight, perspective, and technology. Services like Looka offer affordable logo design starting at around $20.

Cohesive fonts, colors, and graphic elements maintain branding on your website, business cards, packaging, and marketing materials.

Business Cards and Signage

Business cards enable providing contact info and conveying your brand stylishly. Signage with logo reinforces visibility. Services like Vistaprint print affordable batches of cards, banners, and decals starting at $10.

Purchasing a Domain Name

Secure a domain name matching your company for branding and professional email addresses. Aim for short, intuitive names clearly conveying services. Register for 2+ years. Use WHOIS privacy. Services like Namecheap provide domains starting at around $15 annually.

Building a Website

Every photography company needs a website to showcase work and book clients. DIY builders like Wix allow the creation of stylish sites with e-commerce and booking. Expect to invest $100 for a custom domain and removal of ads. Alternatively, you can hire web developers on freelance sites like Fiverr to fully custom-code sites starting around $500.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Tapping into local networks provides invaluable connections and marketing exposure for a new drone photographer. Some methods to get connected include:

Local Associations

Joining associations like the Professional Photographers of America connects you to established pros in your region sharing insights. Expect annual dues of around $250. Regional drone groups like the Drone Photo Awards provide access to local pilots.

Local Meetups

Sites like Meetup provide listings of meetups in your area related to drones, photography, videography, and entrepreneurship. These casual events offer low-pressure networking and chances to demonstrate your expertise.

Facebook Groups

From general small business advice to drone-specific conversations, Facebook groups create digital communities to exchange insights. Follow groups like Drones for Beginners and Drone Photography and Videography Techniques with thousands of users to connect with.

13. How to Market a Drone Photography Business

Implementing ongoing marketing is essential for your drone photography business to continually attract new clients.

The largest commercial drone market is in the United States. With a saturated market, a successful drone photography business needs to stand out. Smart marketing provides the tools needed to get ahead and make a mark among drone photographers.

Here are some ways to get your drone photography marketing started:

Friends and Family

Start by leveraging your existing network. Offer discounts to friends/family to generate portfolio samples and testimonials. Satisfied early customers who see you firsthand provide invaluable referrals as you build credibility.

Digital Marketing

Digital marketing enables efficiently reaching target customers. Effective approaches include:

• Google Ads to get found for searches like “drone photographer”
• Facebook/Instagram ads targeted locally and to photography/video interests
• Post portfolio clips on YouTube and Instagram Reels
• Start a drone photography blog and share insights
• Optimize website for SEO around aerial media keywords
• Email newsletters with exclusive behind-the-scenes footage
• Run drone photo contests offering prints as prizes
• Outreach to local media offering free aerial b-roll footage
• Sponsor relevant podcasts and blogs related to drones or photography

The wide digital reach positions you as an authority in aerial media and surfaces leads. Budget around $300 monthly to test various platforms and assess performance.

Traditional Marketing

Traditional tactics also still have roles in rounding out marketing:

• Business card and flyer distribution at events/networking meetings
• Attending local chamber of commerce mixers to connect in-person
• Direct mail postcards to real estate offices offering shoots for listings
• Radio ads on local stations describing your unique aerial services
• Billboards showcasing your work for commuters at busy intersections
• Vehicle wraps or signage on your car/drone case for brand visibility
• Cold calls and in-person meetings to pitch services to businesses

While digital channels tend to provide the best ROI, local print/radio ads and in-person networking inform prospects and reinforce your professional reputation in the community.

14. Focus on the Customer

Providing exceptional customer service is crucial for drone photography companies to keep clients satisfied, gain referrals, and stand out from competitors. Some ways to connect with drone photography customers are:

• Quick Responses: Responding promptly to inquiries with quotes within 24 hours shows prospects you value their time. Thoroughly explaining your creative process and listening to desired shots builds trust.
• Client Updates: Give clients frequent project updates and involve them in edits/proofs to meet their vision.
• Follow-up: Following up post-shoot to get feedback makes customers feel valued. Address any concerns immediately plus offer them prints at cost to show appreciation.

Be Flexible: Providing flexible scheduling and pricing options caters to different needs.

The goal is to craft a personalized 5-star experience. This fosters loyalty and motivates satisfied customers to enthusiastically vouch for your services.

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• Sample Business Plans
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Drone Business Plan

Maybe you are a photographer and find drones fascinating, or maybe you are passionate about the rewards that the drone business offers. Whatever your motivation is, starting a drone business in competition with a proper business plan is a wise idea.

Need help writing a business plan for your drone business? You’re at the right place. Our drone business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free drone business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How To Write A Drone Business Plan?

Writing a drone business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

• Market Opportunity: Summarize your market research, including market size, growth potential, and marketing trends. Highlight the opportunities in the market and how your business will fit in to fill the gap.
• Marketing & Sales Strategies: Outline your sales and marketing strategies—what marketing platforms you use, how you plan on acquiring customers, etc.
• Financial Highlights: Briefly summarize your financial projections for the initial years of business operations. Include any capital or investment requirements, associated startup costs, projected revenues, and profit forecasts.
• Call to Action: Summarize your executive summary section with a clear CTA, for example, inviting angel investors to discuss the potential business investment.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

• Business Description: Describe your business in this section by providing all the basic information:
• Drone photography business
• Drone manufacturing business
• Drone inspection services
• Drone surveying and mapping
• Agriculture drone services
• Drone delivery services
• Drone racing and entertainment
• Drone software and development

Describe the legal structure of your drone business, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.

• Owners: List the names of your drone business’s founders or owners. Describe what shares they own and their responsibilities for efficiently managing the business.

Business History: If you’re an established drone business, briefly describe your business history, like—when it was founded, how it evolved over time, etc.

• Future Goals: It’s crucial to convey your aspirations and vision. Mention your short-term and long-term goals; they can be specific targets for revenue, market share, or expanding your services.

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

• Target market: Start this section by describing your target market. Define your ideal customer and explain what types of services they prefer. Creating a buyer persona will help you easily define your target market to your readers.
• For instance, real estate & property owners, media & production people, and agriculture & farming people would be an ideal target audience for a drone business.
• Market size and growth potential: Describe your market size and growth potential and whether you will target a niche or a much broader market.
• Competitive Analysis: Identify and analyze your direct and indirect competitors . Identify their strengths and weaknesses, and describe what differentiates your drone services from them. Point out how you have a competitive edge in the market.
• Market Trends: Analyze emerging trends in the industry, such as technology disruptions, changes in customer behavior or preferences, etc. Explain how your business will cope with all the trends.

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your commercial drone business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

• Drone accessories
• Drone cameras
• Drone software
• Drone hardware or upgrade kits
• Sensors and other attachments
• Aerial photography and videography
• Surveying and mapping
• Drone repair and maintenance
• Drone training and certification
• Drone consulting and custom services
• Describe each product or service: Mention all the features and specifications of the drones you are selling. Also, describe any specialized hardware or accessories, like cameras, sensors, or other attachments of drones, if any are there.
• Quality measures: This section should explain how you maintain quality standards and consistently provide the highest quality service.
• This may include safety protocols, pilot training & certification, data accuracy & quality, insurance coverage, etc.
• Additional Services: Mention if your drone company offers any additional services. You may include services like 3D mapping & modeling, event coverage, live streaming, etc.

In short, this section of your drone business plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

• Pricing Strategy: Describe your pricing strategy—how you plan to price your products or services and stay competitive in the local market. You can mention any discounts you plan on offering to attract new customers.
• Marketing Strategies: Discuss your marketing strategies to market your services. You may include some of these marketing strategies in your business plan—social media marketing, Google ads, brochures, content marketing, and local marketing.
• Sales Strategies: Outline the strategies you’ll implement to maximize your sales. Your sales strategies may include direct sales calls, partnering with other businesses, offering referral programs, etc.
• Customer Retention: Describe your customer retention strategies and how you plan to execute them. For instance, introducing loyalty programs, discounts on bulk purchases, personalized service, etc.

Overall, this section of your drone business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your drone business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

• Staffing & Training: Mention your business’s staffing requirements, including the number of employees or drone pilots needed. Include their qualifications, the training required, and the duties they will perform.
• Operational Process: Outline the processes and procedures you will use to run your drone business. Your operational processes may include client consultation, project planning, drone operations, etc.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your drone business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

• Founders/CEO: Mention the founders and CEO of your drone business, and describe their roles and responsibilities in successfully running the business.
• Organizational structure: Explain the organizational structure of your management team. Include the reporting line and decision-making hierarchy.
• Compensation Plan: Describe your compensation plan for the management and staff. Include their salaries, incentives, and other benefits.

This section should describe the key personnel for your drone business, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

• Profit & loss statement: Describe details such as projected revenue, operational costs, and service costs in your projected profit and loss statement . Make sure to include your business’s expected net profit or loss.
• Cash flow statement: The cash flow for the first few years of your operation should be estimated and described in this section. This may include billing invoices, payment receipts, loan payments, and any other cash flow statements.
• Balance Sheet: Create a projected balance sheet documenting your drone business’s assets, liabilities, and equity.
• Financing Needs: Calculate costs associated with starting a drone business, and estimate your financing needs and how much capital you need to raise to operate your business. Be specific about your short-term and long-term financing requirements, such as investment capital or loans.

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your drone business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample drone business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful drone plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our drone business plan pdf .

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Steps for Preparing a Business Plan

Frequently asked questions, why do you need a drone business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful drone business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your drone company.

How to get funding for your drone business?

There are several ways to get funding for your drone business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

Small Business Administration (SBA) loan

Crowdfunding, angel investors.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your drone business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your drone business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your drone business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any drone business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software .

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Drone Photography Business Plan Template & Guidebook

How to write a drone photography business plan in 7 steps:, 1. describe the purpose of your drone photography business..

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Drone Photography Business.

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your drone photography business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

Target market

Customer base , product or service description, competitive analysis, marketing channels, form an llc in your state, 4. write your operational plan., what equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a drone photography business, 5. management & organization of your drone photography business..

The second part of your drone photography business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

6. Drone Photography Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a drone photography business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a drone photography business.

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your drone photography business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your drone photography business plan:

Frequently Asked Questions About Drone Photography Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a drone photography business, who should you ask for help with your drone photography business plan.

Entrepreneurship advisors or consultants, financial advisors, and other industry experts can be excellent sources of help and advice when creating a business plan for a drone photography business. Additionally, local small business development centers or incubators can provide resources, guidance, and assistance.

Can you write a drone photography business plan yourself?

Related business plans, home inventory business plan template & guidebook, home inspection business plan template & guidebook, home decor business plan template & guidebook, health and wellness business plan template & guidebook, hauling business plan template & guidebook, hardware business plan template & guidebook, handyman business plan template & guidebook, hair extension business plan template & guidebook, handbag business plan template & guidebook.

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

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How to Start a Drone Photography Business (12 Easy Tips)

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Drone photography is incredibly popular thanks to the breathtaking views it provides, the salaries it offers, and much more.

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Drone Photography Business Tips

Get a licence and insurance to become an official drone photographer.

Most drone photographers need a licence to work legally. Insurance is optional, but it will help you build trust with your clients.

A licence usually involves a test. Once you pass the test, you become an official drone pilot. An insurance guarantees that if anything goes wrong during your photoshoot (which hopefully will not happen), you will be compensated.

Even though a licence and an insurance take time and money, they’re both worthy investments. Clients find it easier to trust photographers who know how to control drones professionally. Make it clear that you’re licensed when you talk about your drone photography online.

Read Drone Laws to Avoid Shooting Illegally

There are many drone laws to keep in mind when you take photos anywhere. These laws, however, depend on the country you’re in.

For example, here are a few laws for American citizens :

• your drone must weight less than 55 pounds;
• you can’t fly above 400 feet; and
• you must always be able to see your drone.

Being aware of basic drone laws will help you have safe and successful photoshoots anywhere. This will also strengthen your reputation and make clients trust you more.

Start with an Affordable Drone to Practise Drone Photography

You might be tempted to invest in an expensive drone right away. Even if you have the money, consider buying a cheaper drone first.

This will give you a chance to experiment without worrying about damaging your equipment. You’ll be able to focus on composition, angles, and views instead.

The Ryze Tello is one of the most affordable drones out there. It’s a great place to start if you’re looking for an entry-level drone. You can also see more of the best beginner drones in this link.

Most of these are lightweight and have high-quality cameras, so you don’t need to worry about compromising the quality of your work.

Later on Invest in a High-Quality Drone to Take Amazing Shots

When you feel that you have enough experience as a drone photographer, you can invest in professional drones. The kind of drone you choose depends on the kind of work you plan to do. (More on this later.)

Some of the best drones today are:

• DJI Mavic 2 Pro
• Parrot Anafi
• DJI Inspire 2

These are all fairly pricey, but they’re all worthy investments if you want to start a sustainable drone photography business. The better your equipment, the more confident you’ll feel when offering your services to clients.

Experiment with Different Drone Genres to Find Your Favourite(s)

This is one of the most important steps of your business plan . As mentioned before, drone photography comes with a lot of sub-genres.

Here are just a few categories that drone photographers can get into:

• Real estate
• Surveillance
• Agriculture

Make sure that you experiment with as many genres as possible. Have at least two favourite photography genres that you can work on in the long run. The more skills you develop, the more clients you’ll have.

Once you pick a few favourites, you can start offering your services to a wide variety of people.

Create a Checklist to Ensure a Smooth Operation

Before you make your business official, you can make a list of everything you’d like to focus on. This can be a to-do list or simply a list of questions.

A few questions you can keep in mind are:

• What is my target audience?
• How much can I realistically earn in one year?
• Do I have any acquaintances or friends who might be interested in my business?
• Do I also want to offer drone videography ?
• What is the best social media platform to advertise my work?
• What is my backup plan if something goes wrong?

The more prepared you are, the easier you’ll find it to keep your business strong, no matter what you experience.

Improve Your Drone Photography Business by Looking at Competitors

Different kinds of drone photography thrive in different areas. Look at local drone photographers and see what they’re offering. Take note of similarities, pricing packages, and editing styles .

Do most of them offer photography services only? If so, maybe you can offer extra videography services. Your goal is to find what’s missing and use it to attract customers.

There are other things you can include in your offer, such as professional color correction and a 24-hour turnaround.

Of course, you need to make sure that what you’re offering is realistic for your lifestyle. While it’s important to take your work to the next level, don’t forget about your limits and abilities.

For example, if you have a part-time job, you can offer a 48-hour turnaround instead of a 24-hour turnaround. This might give you enough time to work on both jobs efficiently without compromising either of them.

Build a Strong Portfolio to Highlight Your Skills

Without an outstanding style, drone photos all look the same. You can naturally develop your style by taking lots of photos.

Experiment with different angles , heights, editing skills, and videography techniques. The more you do this, the closer you’ll get to discovering your unique preferences.

Store all of your photos on a hard drive . As long as a picture is sharp and has a good composition , keep it. You might come back to these outtakes and see potential in them. If nothing else, you’ll see where you went wrong and learn from it.

When you’ve already had a few photo shoots and feel confident in your work, you can start building your photography portfolio . Post your best work only. Keep your photos diverse. This means you should take photos of different events and landscapes .

Show visitors all of your skills so that they can get inspired by your work. And if you inspire them, you’re likely to be hired by them.

Draw up a Solid Pricing Plan to Avoid Confusion

There’s no right or wrong way to create a photography pricing plan . Drone photographers can charge anywhere from $50 to $450 an hour. If you’re a beginner and need experience, you’ll probably want to start at a low rate.

Come up with a rate that seems fair to you. Now, compare it to your competitors’ pricing packages. You have a right to charge more if you offer extra services.

Another thing to keep in mind is turnaround time. If you can send your client the results within 24 hours, you should charge extra.

Some drone photographers offer a variety of pricing packages. Instead of charging per hour, you can offer an entire package for a fixed price. Consider your turnaround time, how long you’ll be photographing for, and if the clients want edited pictures or not.

Sell Your Photos on Stock Photo Websites for Extra Income

You don’t always need to shoot for a client to earn some money. Many drone photographers sell their photos to publishers, advertising companies, and so on. One of the easiest ways to do this is to find a stock photo agency .

You can submit exclusive or non-exclusive work. Exclusive work can be used only once or for a limited time. Non-exclusive work can be bought over and over again.

Stock photo agencies don’t usually pay as much as clients do, but they can be a great source of passive income .

Be Present on Social Media to Get More Exposure

Once everything is ready, you can start posting your photos on social media . Social media exposure can lead to more clients, a strong reputation, and paid promotions. It can also help you build a community of inspiring artists.

Start with a couple of social platforms . If you focus on just a few, you’ll be able to spend your social media time wisely.

Post on a regular basis. Include people in your work so that they feel special. Use hashtags related to drone photography so more people can discover your work.

This might not always pay the bills, but it will keep you refreshed and motivated as a drone photographer.

Common Drone Photography Questions

Is drone photography profitable.

Drone photography can be quite a profitable job. Professional drone photographers can charge up to $450 per hour. In general, the amount of money you earn depends on the kind of aerial photography you want to pursue.

How Much Does a Drone Footage Cost?

The cost depends on how long you want your final video to be. Drone footage tends to last between 1-3 minutes. The average cost for filming something with a drone is around $100-$200 per hour. Of course, the final price also depends on the videographer’s experience and the kind of work that’s being requested.

Can Drones Be Used for Commercial Purposes?

Yes. In some countries, like the UK, you need to get special permission to use a drone for commercial purposes. Most commercial photographers need a drone insurance and a certification for their business to be considered legal.

Do I Need a Commercial Drone Licence?

It depends on the country you’re in. In general, you’ll need a commercial drone licence if you work on a commercial project. This includes client photoshoots.

If you’re planning to use your drone just for fun, you might not need a commercial drone licence.

Drone photography is a diverse genre that can help you look at the world from a unique point of view. It’s not surprising that so many people want to turn it into a thriving business.

With some patience and an open mind, you can have a successful drone photography business of your own that inspires both you and the people around you.

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How to get into the drone business: ideas, plans, models and business opportunities in 2021

We expect the drone services market to grow from $4.4 billion in 2018 to $63.6 billion by 2025.

Gearing Up Towards a Drone-Powered Economy

Some trends have the capacity of turning into mega trends and bringing about a dramatic shift in the economy as we know it. UAVs have managed to do that in a rather short period of time.

From being considered as mere "toys of the hobbyists", "flying cameras of the rich," or the "clandestine military operative machines," drones have further penetrated vast areas of our economy and are starting to become a major part of our everyday lives. Unimaginable uses of drones are coming to life every single day and their evolution is only going to surge with time.

Business tech buffs globally are trying to get a slice of this rapidly growing trend's pie. The drone services market size is expected to grow from $4.4 billion in 2018 to $63.6 billion by 2025.

For a budding entrepreneur, owning a drone in this day and age is a latent business opportunity just waiting to be explored and exploited. For opportunistic businesspeople, drones have multiple uses and can be explored and utilized in a variety of ways. 

Before getting started with a drone-related business, it is fundamental to check local regulations on the commercial use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Some countries already have introduced strict regulations that limit the use of drones. 

How to Get Started with a Drone Business

Before you decide to take the plunge into the intriguing world of drones and the business opportunities ascribed with them, the very first steps are to enroll in an FAA-approved aeronautical training program to get a Remote Pilot Certificate, which is a prerequisite to be able to commercially conduct a full-fledged drone business. You can enroll in the Drone Pilot Ground School , which helps fledgling drone pilots get the appropriate test prep for the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test. 

Related stories

UAV Coach also offers a step-by-step guide to FAA Part 107 for U.S. Commercial Drone Pilots to score a drone certification process that covers all the new regulations implemented by the FAA. 

Drone Business Opportunities 

The potential business opportunities with drones are extensive. Below, we've listed some of the ways people are breaking into the drone business.

One-man Aerial Film Unit (Filmmaking)

With basic knowledge of operating video cameras and piloting drones, people can produce in-house documentaries, short films, video snippets and montages that would otherwise require helicopters to shoot. Moreover, drones are cheaper, more maneuverable, and safer than helicopters .

Individuals and large enterprise consumers can also pursue a wedding and special events photography business with drones. Owning a drone can be the ultimate start to a freelance business of commercial photography and videography, which could prove to be a secondary or even a primary source of income.

Drone Photography Business

Aerial photography accounts for one of the largest shares of the drone services market. A variety of markets look to aerial photography for collecting digital data. For example, the architecture, oil & gas, and civil engineering industries rely on drone photography for data collection, assets management, and aerial mapping.

Agriculture Manning/Inspection Business Farmers can use UAVs for pest and blight identification, crop health, and weed identification. Drones in action

Farmers can reduce the variable cost of manually getting their farms inspected, as drones can reach niche areas in half the amount of time that manual labor would take. Farmers can also use UAVs for pest and blight identification, crop health and weed identification, and agriculture applications such as fertilizer, pesticides, and water distribution.

Mapping and Industrial Inspection Business

With a geo-referenced map, areas and objects can be easily measured and quantified with drones, which otherwise would take a ground survey team several days to cover. Architects, construction site owners, mining engineers, shipping and infrastructure professionals, and more can be potential customers for a drone inspection business.

Drone Repair Service Business

In most budding industries, there is a corresponding requirement of maintenance and repair jobs. With the escalating use of drones worldwide, and with associated probable military and domestic drone crashes, a good drone repair service is never going to be devoid of work.

Repairing drones may not sound like the most revolutionary business opportunity in the field, but it could be a great way to undercut the market and grow quickly in this particular niche — using 3D printing to lower costs.

Drone Professional Courses Provider Business

As the interest around drone uses and operations increases, more tech buffs can benefit from the teachings of professional pilots, drone tech experts and makers. Drone flying courses usually involve theoretical and practical sessions. Students can be taught the basic maneuvers and safe use of drones to take pictures or capture footage. Offering students licenses and certifications can also be offered as part of the courses by authorized instructors.

Small Business Delivery Drones can deliver everyday supplies and perform minor functions that can lower operational costs. Uber

Keeping in tandem with local rules and laws, small businesses can benefit immensely from drones. Drones can deliver everyday supplies, repair materials, commodities, and perform minor functions that can lower operational costs for small businesses considerably. Elimination of middle men and labor for menial work (such as deliveries and pick ups) can help boost the bottom line of many businesses across the globe.

Drone Advertising and Marketing Business

Drones have a yet another unusual function of intelligence gathering and data mining for businesses. As an example, one of retail's largest players, Walmart, is testing how drones could help improve warehouse inventory management.

Backed by cloud services and big-data techniques, the unprecedented data gathering capabilities of drones have the potential to radically alter the competitive dynamics of the information landscape.

Apart from this, drones can be used for marketing campaigns by carrying advertising banners and shooting aerial footage campaigns, maximizing exposure for companies.

Real Estate Drone Business 

The real estate market is an emerging opportunity for drone technology. Drones have the ability to generate video tours for customers interested in property. Soaring through halls and over rooftops, drones provide customers with a more immersive experience than traditional real estate photography. 

In addition to the above, some other drone business opportunities to look into are:

• Commercial Inspection Services: Provideing inspection services for bridges, cell and TV towers, wind turbines, power lines, pipelines, and even solar panels.
• Fast Food Delivery: Big companies such as Domino's Pizza will be looking to invest in drones for pizza delivery in the future.
• Package Delivery: Australia Post and Amazon are already investing in drone technology as a way of delivering packages.
• Residential Home Inspections: Check roofs, chimneys, siding, brick, and other structures for exterior damage.
• Drone Delivery Methods: Solve the "last 50 feet dilemma" by developing a method for delivery, such as drop, parachute, hoist, or landing.
• Software Programming/Applications : If you know something particular the drone market is lacking, then invest in creating an app for it.
• Drone Rentals: Because drone technology changes so rapidly, it doesn't always make sense for a company to make a long-term investment. Renting, rather than selling, drones can provide more flexibility where it's needed.

More to Learn

The opportunities listed here are just a few of the vast prospects this budding industry offers. After understanding the basic concepts behind drone usage and its business potential, time should be taken to assess possibilities and figure out what your biggest strengths are. 

Interested in learning more? Join other Insider Intelligence clients who receive thousands of Connectivity & Tech forecasts, briefings, charts, and research reports to their inboxes. >> Become a Client

• Below we've outlined some of the ways people are breaking into the drone business.
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How to Start a Drone Photography Business

Drone photography involves the taking of photos or videos by an autonomous UAV or one controlled by a person who manually operates it via remote control. Commercial drone photography plays a role across a wide range of industries including real estate, farming, films, advertising, and much more.

Learn how to start your own Drone Photography Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a drone photography business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Drone Photography Business
• Form your Drone Photography Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Drone Photography Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Drone Photography Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Drone Photography Business
• Get Drone Photography Business Insurance
• Define your Drone Photography Business Brand
• Create your Drone Photography Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your drone photography business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Drone Photography Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your drone photography business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a drone photography business.

There are many costs associated with opening a drone photography business. Besides the normal costs of starting any type of business, there are several unique costs for anyone thinking about a drone photography business:

• UAVs. The biggest cost by far will be your drones. While it is possible to purchase hobby-type drones for below $1000, commercial-quality UAVs can cost more than $10,000. It is very likely you will need more than one drone.
• Computer and software. Depending on whether you intend to shoot photographs, videos, or both, you will need the right editing software. Most drones come with their own software packages, but many aerial photographers prefer Adobe Photoshop for stills and Adobe Premier Pro for videos. Both programs are available on a subscription basis for around $50 a month. Of course, you will need a computer to run the editing software. If you do not already have a suitable computer, expect to spend around $1500.
• Certification. If you don't already have a Remote Pilot Certificate, you will need to get one. The testing fee is $150, but unless you already have a solid understanding of airspace regulations and aeronautical knowledge, you will probably want to take a prep course. There are many online and in person prep courses available ranging from less than a $100 for a basic online course to well over $1000 for in-person instruction.
• Website and hosting. A good website is critical for marketing your business. Consider a professionally designed site costing up to $1000. Hosting expenses are minimal.
• Insurance. Insurance is critical to protect your expensive equipment and your business from litigation. Insurance costs vary depending on the level of protection that you desire.
• Transportation. You will need reliable transportation which provide enough space to transport your drones. Transportation costs vary.

What are the ongoing expenses for a drone photography business?

Maintaining, repairing, and updating drones and software is the largest ongoing expense for those who work out of their homes. If your drone photography business operates out of a building or studio, you will also have to consider the costs of rent and office maintenance as ongoing expenses. Whether or not you have employees can also increase the expenses of your business.

Who is the target market?

Real estate agents, people who are selling a piece of property or a boat, advertising companies, and even local athletes are all potential clients. Your ideal client is anyone who wants to showcase something in a spectacularly unique way using aerial photography or videography.

How does a drone photography business make money?

A drone photography business can choose the best type of pricing policies to fit their clients. Some drone photography businesses charge their clients a set price for a complete package which includes everything from shooting to editing. Other businesses choose to charge an hourly rate for the shoot and a separate editing fee. A few drone photography businesses choose to provide only the raw footage to their clients.

You fees should reflect the valuable service you provide. Drone photography businesses usually charge between $150 - $450 per hour of shooting and around $100 per hour of editing. Package deals typically start around $500 and increase depending on the services desired by the client.

How much profit can a drone photography business make?

The Drone Training HQ suggests the average salary for a drone photography business is from $50,000 - $60,000 a year with some pilots making much more.

How can you make your business more profitable?

There are may additional ways to earn money with your drones. Aerial mapping and aerial inspections are two great ways to generate more money. In addition, there are opportunities to be had in local media and even search and rescue.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your drone photography business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a drone photography business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

For information about local licenses and permits:

• Check with your town, city or county clerk’s office
• Get assistance from one of the local associations listed in  US Small Business Associations directory of local business resources .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Service Agreement

Drone photography businesses should consider requiring clients to sign a service agreement before starting a new project. This agreement should clarify client expectations and minimize risk of legal disputes by setting out payment terms and conditions, service level expectations, and intellectual property ownership. Here is an example service agreement.

Recommended: Rocket Lawyer makes it easy to create a professional service agreement for your drone photography business when you sign up for their premium membership. For $39.95 per month, members receive access to hundreds of legal agreements and on call attorneys to get complimentary legal advice.

Certificate of Occupancy

A drone photography business can be operated out of a physical location. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a location :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a drone photography business.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a location :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for you business’ location to ensure your drone photography business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Drone Photography Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Drone Photography Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a drone photography business

Your own website is your best marketing tool, but think about advertising through third-party sites like Amazon Services or ThumbTack.com or even specialized site such as HiFlyPhotography.com . You may want contact potential clients within your niche through direct mail.

How to keep customers coming back

Concentrating on marketing in your local area and providing better than expected service to your clients will create a buzz for your business. A social media page consisting of fascinating pictures that your drones have taken and your business has edited is a great way to catch the eyes and interest of potential clients.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

A drone photography business is a wonderful opportunity for anyone who wants to make good money by combining their love of photography or videography along with their passion for flying. There is a high technical barrier to the business, so it is critical that potential business owners are dedicated to achieving a high degree of technical fluency. A drone photography business usually requires a lot of traveling to clients, so you will need to be comfortable with possible overnight travel.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a drone photography business?

A drone business owner spends most of the time running the back-end of the company. This involves marketing, speaking with potential clients and current clients, securing permission for flights, filing paperwork, and handling the billing. Only a small percentage of work time is dedicated to operating a drone and editing photographs or video footage.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful drone photography business?

Since August 29, 2016, in order to legally fly a commercial drone in the US, a pilot needs to have a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA . This requires passing the FAA Part 107 Aeronautical Knowledge Test with a 70% or better. In addition to possessing a Remote Pilot Certificate, a background in photography, videography, and editing is essential. Just like any other business, having knowledge about marketing and back-office procedures is important.

What is the growth potential for a drone photography business?

The growth potential is huge. There are currently only around 3000 certified commercial drone pilots in the United States, yet the popularity of aerial photography continues to grow. With the high level of technical knowledge required to enter into this field, the opportunities for work will continue to outpace the availability of licensed drone pilots to accept the work.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

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Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a drone photography business?

Invest in the best training and equipment you can afford to help you stand out from your competitors. Your clients will expect high-quality results, so you better have the technology and skills to deliver it to them. Choose a single niche, like real estate photography or extreme sport videography to allow yourself to focus your equipment and marketing budgets on a single market segment to reduce costs. Always deliver better and faster than you promised.

How and when to build a team

A team can help you complete the different duties of a drone photography business while letting you focus on the parts of the business which best suit you. For example, if you are most interested in taking the photos, but you are not confident in your post-production editing, you may want hire an expert or outsource your editing to a professional. You should build the rest of your team slowly, as needed.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• Drone Franchise opportunity
• Real Property Photography Franchise opportunity
• Professional Aerial Photographers

Real World Examples

• NY/NJ business
• ATL business

Further Reading

• Federal drone regulations
• Tips for Starting a Drone Photography Business

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Technology

A Sample Drone Photography Business Plan Template

Are you about starting a UAV (drone) photography business? If YES, here’s a complete sample aerial drone photography business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE to raise money . Drone technology is rapidly gaining prominence in the globe beyond the military circuit.

Drones are unmanned but controlled aircraft ( aerial vehicle or unpiloted vehicle ) used in the military during war to attack the enemy’s camp and also are used by the military for surveillance and to gather intelligence. Drones are also used by the military to deliver foods to front line troops during war. Drones come in handy when the risk and difficulty involved in any military operation is high and unsafe for soldiers.

In recent time, the civilian community has started developing and making use of drones to carry out task such as surveying of vast farm lands (plantation), for delivery of parcels, to monitor and count wildlife and livestock, for  geographical mapping, for search and rescue operations, for monitoring pipelines, for road patrol and for general commercial photography and motion picture film making.

A Sample Aerial Drone Photography Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Aerial photography is the taking of photographs of the ground from an elevated/direct-down position. Generally the camera is not supported by a ground-based structure. Platforms that are used for aerial photography include fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles ( UAVs or “drones” as they are commonly called ), balloons, blimps and dirigibles, rockets, pigeons, kites, parachutes, stand-alone telescoping and vehicle-mounted poles et al.

In all countries of the world where private investors are involved in aerial drone photography business, there are laws governing the industry. For example, in the united states, FAA guidelines stipulate that drones and other model aircraft must stay less than 400 feet above the ground and not within 3 miles of an airport or air traffic.

Some states in the US are strict when it comes to trespassing laws as well. Steering a drone over someone’s apartment and property could be considered a trespassing violation. Because anything capable of being viewed from a public space is considered outside the realm of privacy in the united states, aerial photography may legally document features and occurrences on private property.

On September 26, 2014, the FAA began granting the right to individuals and organizations to use drones in aerial film making. Operators are required to be licensed pilots and must keep the drone in view at all times and it is important to note that drones cannot be used to take pictures or film in areas where people might be put at risk.

The photography industry of which aerial drone photography business belongs to is indeed a very large and growing industry and pretty much active in the United States of America, Russia, Germany, Japan, China, South Korea and in most developed countries of the world.

If you are looking towards starting you’re an aerial drone photography business, then you should consider purchasing a 3D Robotics’ Iris or more popular models like DJI’s Phantom series. Generally, the GoPro Hero3 Black Edition is the standard when it comes to aerial videography and photography; it weighs only 73 grams and can record video (2,704×1,524 pixels) at 45Mbps.

It also features built-in Wi-Fi for downloading your footage and maximum compatibility with OEM and third-party accessories. You may want to see where you’re flying while steering a drone from the ground, for instance. To achieve this, you can use a tool like a video transmitter, such as the Immersion RC 5.8 GHz 600mw, which greatly increases the range of a 5.8GHz link, and then you can pair it with a Duo5800 or Uno5800 receiver on the ground to get noise-free video.

Over and above, the photography industry and the aerial drone photography line of business is a profitable industry and it is open for any aspiring entrepreneur to come in and establish his or her business; you can chose to start on a small scale working for just a private company or you can chose to start on a large scale working for both government establishments and large corporations who are into research and related businesses.

2. Executive Summary

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is a registered and licensed business enterprise in the photography industry that will specialize in aerial drone photography business. Although our business will be based in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts where we were intend setting up our corporate office, but we intend working for clients both in the United States of America and the any part of the world.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company will be involved in the all aspect of aerial drone photography services such as Phase I Environmental Site Assessments for property analysis, create orthophotos, alternatively known as orthophotomaps ( Orthophotos are commonly used in geographic information systems ), in cartography (particularly in photogrammetric surveys), which are often the basis for:

• Topographic maps
• Land-use planning
• Archaeology
• Movie production
• Environmental studies
• Power line inspection
• Surveillance
• Commercial advertising
• Conveyancing
• Artistic projects, et al.

Our business goal is to become one of the leading aerial drone photography company in the United States and we will make sure that every job we handle can favorable compete with the best in the industry.

We are aware that there are several large and small aerial drone photography businesses all around the United States which is why we spent time and resources to conduct our feasibility studies and market survey so as to position our aerial drone photography business in Bay Orleans – Massachusetts and also to offer much more than our competitors will be offering in terms of products and of course customer service.

Much more than producing top notch photos, our customer care is going to be second to none in the whole of Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts. We know that our customers are the reason why we are in business which is why we will go the extra mile to get them satisfied when they engage our services and also to become our loyal customers and ambassadors.

At Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company our client’s best interest come first and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics.

We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by delivering excellent and neat jobs and also meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely. We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living, and living in our world, for our partners, employees and for our clients.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is a family business that is owned by Rev. George Canton – Freeman and his family. The business will be managed by his son Marco Canton – Freeman a graduate of Business Administration who is a member of The DC Area Drone User Group – the largest UAV club in the US, and also the Academy of Model Aeronautics.

He has extensive experience working with one of the leading photography companies in the United States of America. He will bring his experience and expertise to help build and grow Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company to compete favorably with other leading aerial drone photography companies in the United States of America.

3. Our Products and Services

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is in the aerial drone photography industry for the purpose of making profits and we will ensure we go all the way position our business in key cities in Bay Orleans, Massachusetts and other key cities in the United States of America.

Here are some of the products and services that will be offering;

• Phase I Environmental Site Assessments for property analysis
• Create orthophotos, alternatively known as orthophotomaps (Orthophotos are commonly used in geographic information systems)
• Cartography services particularly in photogrammetric surveys, which are often the basis for topographic maps, land-use planning, archaeology, movie production, environmental studies, power line inspection, surveillance, commercial advertising, conveyancing, and artistic projects
• Other related aerial drone photography advisory and consulting services.

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to build an aerial drone photography company that will have active presence all over Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and other key cities both in the United States of America and Canada
• Our mission is to establish an aerial drone photography company that will make available a wide range of services and products as it relates to aerial drone photography business at affordable prices and to build a business that will grow to become one of the top 10 aerial drone photography companies in the United States.

Our Business Structure

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company do not intend to start a photo booth business whose presence can only be found in Bay – Orleans; our intention of starting an aerial drone photography business is to build a standard business with active presence in strategic locations in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and of course other key cities spread across the United States and Canada.

We will ensure that we put the right structure in place that will support the kind of growth that we have in mind while setting up the business.

In putting in place a good business structure, we will ensure that we hire only people that are qualified, honest, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stake holders (the owners, workforce, and customers).

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. In view of that, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Admin and Human Resources Manager

Sales and Marketing Manager

Aerial Drone Photographic Specialist / Operators

• Client Services Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Reports to the board

Admin and HR Manager

• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Enhances department and organization reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.
• Manages external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Documents all customer contact and information
• Represents these company in strategic meetings
• Helps to increase sales and growth for the company
• In charge of Phase I Environmental Site Assessments for property analysis
• Creates orthophotos, alternatively known as orthophotomaps (Orthophotos are commonly used in geographic information systems)
• Handles cartography services particularly in photogrammetric surveys, which are often the basis for topographic maps, land-use planning, archaeology, movie production, environmental studies, power line inspection, surveillance, commercial advertising, conveyancing, and artistic projects
• Handles other related aerial drone photography advisory and consulting services.
• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization

Client Service Executive

• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the human resources and admin manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc; to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries.

6. SWOT Analysis

Our intention of starting our aerial drone photography business in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts is to test run the business for a period of 3 to 6 months to know if we will invest more money, expand the business beyond Bay Orleans – Massachusetts to key cities in the United States and Canada.

We are quite aware that there are several aerial drone photographic businesses all over the United States and Canada and even in the same locations where we intend starting ours, which is why we are following the due process of establishing a business.

We know that if a proper SWOT analysis is conducted for our business, we will be able to position our business to maximize our strength, leverage on the opportunities that will be available to us, mitigate our risks and be well – equipped to confront our threats.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company employed the services of an expert HR and Business Analyst with bias in start – ups to help us conduct a thorough SWOT analysis and to help us create a Business model that will help us achieve our business goals and objectives.

This is the summary of the SWOT analysis that was conducted for Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company;

The strategic locations we intend covering, the business model we will be operating on, ease of payment, wide range of products and our excellent customer service culture will definitely count as a strong strength for Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company. So also, we have a well – experienced and qualified team that can go all the way to give our clients value for their money; a team that are trained and equipped to pay attention to details.

A major weakness that may count against us is the fact that we are a new aerial photography business and we don’t have the financial capacity to compete with multi – million dollars photography companies who are also into aerial photography business.

• Opportunities:

The fact that we are launching out in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts, provides us with unlimited opportunities to sell our products and services to a large number of corporate organization, research institute, and film makers who need the services of aerial drone photography companies.

We have been able to conduct thorough feasibility studies and market survey and we know what our potential clients will be looking for when they hire our services; we are well positioned to take on the opportunities that will come our way.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of an aerial photography company or a photography company in same location where ours is located. unfavorable government policies can also pose a major threat to businesses such as ours.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

A close observation of the Photography industry shows that the industry has experienced several changes as digital cameras and post – production technologies have increasingly affected players in the industry. So also the use of aerial drone photography is on the rise and more businesses are keying into the trend.

While photographers are benefiting from the changes by increasing their efficiency and availability, consumers are now able to take professional-quality images without the need of a specialist. Nevertheless, revenue is expected to improve slightly in the next five years as photo booths and photography companies focus on niche markets, such as wedding photography, children photography, documentary photography, events, sports and church directory photography, to sustain demand.

Lastly, it will be observed that on recent time, the FAA began granting the right to individuals and organizations to use drones in aerial film making. Operators are required to be licensed pilots and must keep the drone in view at all times and it is important to note that drones cannot be used to take pictures or film in areas where people might be put at risk.

8. Our Target Market

The target market for those who need the services and products of aerial drone photography companies are all encompassing. It is a fact that there are some forms of photography that can’t be carried out except with the use of aerial drones or similar equipment / tools.

In view of that, we have positioned our aerial drone photography company to service the businesses, government agencies and corporate organizations Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and every other in the United States of America and Canada. We have conducted our market research and we have ideas of what our target market would be expecting from us.

We are in the aerial drone photographic business to services clients such as;

• Businesses in the Agriculture Industry
• Film Makers
• Government agencies
• Every other organizations / businesses and individual who would need the services of an aerial drone photography company

Our Competitive Advantage

The competitions that exist in the aerial drone photography line of business may not be stiff simply because the business requires some level of technical skills and certifications. Although, the aerial drone photography business requires some form of trainings, certifications and expertise, it does not stop any serious minded entrepreneur to start the business and still make good profit out of this business.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is launching a standard aerial drone photography business that will indeed become the preferred choice of businesses and government agencies in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and in every other location where our business will be opened.

The strategic locations we intend covering, the business model we will be operating on, ease of payment, wide range of products and our excellent customer service culture will definitely count as a competitive advantage for Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company. So also we have a well – experienced and qualified team that can go all the way to give our clients value for their money; a team that are trained and equipped to pay attention to details.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups photography / aerial drone photography companies) in the industry meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the photography / aerial drone photography industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to offer our services and products to a wide range of customers.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company will generate income by offering the following services and products;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain; there would always be corporate organizations, businesses and government agencies in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and in the United States of America who would always need the services of aerial drone photography companies for the various purposes.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and in the United States and Canada. We are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow the business and our clientele base beyond Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts to other cities in the United States and Canada where we intend marketing our services.

We have been able to critically examine the aerial drone photography / photography industry and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to startups in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts.

Below is the sales projection for Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company, it is based on the location of our business and the wide range of products and services that we will be offering;

• First Fiscal Year-: $100,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $250,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $750,000

N.B: This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and natural disasters within the period stated above. There won’t be any major competitor offering same additional services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Before choosing locations for launching our aerial drone photography business, we conduct a thorough market survey and feasibility studies in order for us to be able to be able to penetrate the available market and become the preferred choice for corporate organizations, business and government agencies in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and other cities in the United States and Canada.

We have detailed information and data that we were able to utilize to structure our business to attract the numbers of customers we want to attract per time.

We hired experts who have good understanding of the aerial drone photography / photography industry to help us develop

In other to continue to be in business and grow, we must continue to attract clients to patronize our products and services which is why we will go all out to empower or sales and marketing team to deliver. In summary, Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company will adopt the following sales and marketing approach to win customers over;

• Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to corporate organizations, businesses in the agriculture sector, film makers, research organizations and key stake holders in Bay – Orleans and throughout the United States and Canada.
• Print handbills about our aerial drone photography business and its locations and drop them in public facilities.
• Advertise on the internet on blogs and forums, and also on social media like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn to get our message across, so that those on the social media or those who read blogs can know where to go when they need the services of an aerial drone photographer
• Creating a basic website for our business, so as to give our business an online presence
• Directly market our aerial drone photography business.
• Join local photography / aerial drone photography associations for industry trends and tips
• Provide discount days for our customers
• Advertise our business in community based newspapers, local TV and radio stations
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Encourage the use of Word of mouth marketing (referrals)

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Despite the fact that our aerial drone photography company will be well located, we will still go ahead to intensify publicity for the business. We are going to explore all available means to promote our aerial drone photography business.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company has a long term plan of covering various locations in major cities in the United States and Canada which is why we will deliberately build our brand to be well accepted in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts before venturing out. As a matter of fact, our publicity and advertising strategy is not solely for winning customers over but to effectively communicate our brand.

Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company;

• Place adverts on both print (community based newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, et al to promote our brand
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations all around Bay Orleans – Massachusetts
• Engage in road show from time to time
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• Position our Flexi Banners at strategic positions in the location where our photo booths are located.
• Ensure that all our workers wear our branded shirts and all our aerial drones, vehicles are well branded with our company’s logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Pricing is one of the key factors that gives leverage to aerial drone photography business, it is normal for consumers to go to places where they can get good deals or hire the services of a company that can give them good bargain for their money. We are aware of this trend which is why we have put structures in place that will enable us charge fees that are a little below the industry’s average.

We will ensure that we reduce our overhead, and we are ready to run on low profit margin for the first six months of launching the business just for the purpose of attracting loyal clients and build our clientele base.

• Payment Options

At Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company, our payment policy will be all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by via bank transfer
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft
• Payment with cash

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business.

The tools and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked. As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a photo booth business; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money.

When it comes to starting an aerial drone photography business the major areas that you look towards spending the bulk of your cash is in the purchase of standard aerial drones with excellent cameras and of course renting or leasing well located facilities. Aside from that, you are not expected to spend much except for paying of your employees and the purchase of supplies.

This is the key areas where we will spend our start – up capital;

• The Total Fee for Registering the Business in the United States – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services ( software, P.O.S machines and other software ) – $1,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of the business in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580.
• Cost for hiring Business Consultant – $2,500.
• Insurance ( general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty ) coverage at a total premium – $2,400.
• Cost for payment of rent for 12 month at $1.76 per square feet in the total amount of $105,600.
• Cost for the facility and remodeling ( construction of racks and shelves ) – $70,000.
• The cost for the purchase of aerial drones, cameras and accessories (a 3D Robotics’ Iris or DJI’s Phantom series, GoPro Hero3 Black Edition, built-in Wi-Fi for downloading your footage and maximum compatibility with OEM and third-party accessories, a video transmitter, such as the Immersion RC 5.8 GHz 600mw, which greatly increases the range of a 5.8GHz link, and then you can pair it with a Duo5800 or Uno5800 receiver on the ground to get noise-free video.) – $150,000
• Other start-up expenses including stationery ($500) and phone and utility deposits ( $2,500 ).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
• The cost for start-up inventory (stocking with printing and photography supplies) – $100,000
• Cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
• Cost of purchase and installation of CCTVs: – $10,000
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets for the office (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al): $80,000.
• The cost of Launching a Website: $600
• The cost for our opening party: $7,000
• Miscellaneous: $10,000

We would need an estimate of $400,000 to successfully set up our aerial drone photography business in Bay Orleans, Massachusetts. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all the staff for the first month of operation.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is a private business that is solely owned and financed by Rev. George Canton – Freeman and his family. We do not intend to welcome any external business partners; which is why we have decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital to 3 major sources.

Since they are the sole financier of the business, they have decided to adopt the following means to generate start – up capital for the business;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Apply for loan from my Bank

N.B: We have been able to generate about $50,000 (Personal savings $40,000 and soft loan from family members $10,000 ) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $300,000 from our bank. All the papers and document have been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited with the amount.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running. We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to deliver excellent jobs at all times

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing standard photo booths: In Progress
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Leasing of our corporate office and remodeling the facility : In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed aerial drone photography equipment, furniture, racks, shelves, computers, electronic appliances, office appliances and CCTV: In Progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
• Compilation of our list of products that will be available in our various photo booths location: Completed
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – suppliers of all our needed products and photo booths et al: In Progress

More on Technology

How to Start a Drone Photography Business (6 Essential Steps)

Drones are everywhere these days and as a photographer if you have yet to become a commercial drone pilot , you’re missing the boat.

And, you’re missing a boatload of income opportunities.

The commercial drone industry is absolutely taking off and the drone industry as a whole holds a very optimistic outlook. But what does that mean for traditional photographers?

At SolDrones, we assist digital creators in expanding their businesses and increasing their earning opportunities by providing resources that enhance their skills and optimize their business operations.

If you’re just starting off as a drone photographer or are looking to scale your drone business and start earning more , we’ve created the perfect guide just for you.

Highlights: 

• Now is the best time to start a drone photography business 
• 6 key steps to starting your drone business (hint: market niche selection) 
• Getting starting is much simpler than most photographers are aware of

Why Start a Drone Photography Business? 

Drones have changed the way we see the world. Not too long ago, aerial photography and videography was only available through helicopters which can cost hundreds – if not thousands of dollars per hour. 

Nowadays, just about anyone can buy a drone, get it registered, and become a certified pilot by passing the Part 107 exam. Within a matter of weeks, drone photographers can start finding customers, some of which are willing to pay $500+  per hour! 

But, like most businesses throughout industries, not everyone is an overnight success. In fact, the vast majority of startup businesses fail . To avoid the failed drone photography business startup trap, it’s critical to have a comprehensive plan that allows you to find clients and scale your income streams. 

The great news is, as much as you want to become a drone photographer, other businesses need your drone photography services. Weddings, sports events, and movie production agencies are willing to pay a premium for the right drone photographer. 

Simply put, while there are more and more commercial drone photographers entering the industry, the demand is also surging.

So, will you be one of the top pilots that leads the industries and scales your drone photography income? As with most businesses, it starts with having a plan and creating the right processes and systems built to scale. 

Commercial Drone Business Plan 

Once you’ve committed to starting your drone photography business, you’ll want to develop a sound business plan. To help guide you along your way, we’ve outlined 6 key steps that will help you hit the ground running. 

Legal Requirements 

Business setup, scaling your commercial drone business.

The sections below explain each step in detail. 

Commercial Drone Industry Research 

When you’re just starting off as a drone photographer, you’ll want to conduct ample research so you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into. As the old saying goes: measure twice, cut once . 

Here are a few key tenets to keep in mind to guide your research: 

• Legalities & FAA Regulations : Familiarize yourself with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines and regulations for commercial drone operation. For example, to earn an income as a drone photographer, you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate by passing the Part 107 exam , as well as register your drone with the FAA. 
• Market and Competition : Analyze the current landscape of drone service providers and identify potential areas for growth and differentiation. By developing a better understanding of your potential customers and the market competition, you’ll be able to properly set up your business for success with marketing and sales.
• Technology and Equipment : Research the technology and equipment that’s best for the type of business you wish to operate. Look into drone cameras, sensors, and video editing software. Determine which of these will best suit your business needs and budget.
• Financing : Research the different financing options available to you, such as bank loans, crowdfunding, and venture capital, or bootstrapping your business with your own funds. 

The FAA has regulations for all commercial pilots seeking to fly drones in the United States. If you’re abroad, there are other country-specific regulations you need to also be aware of. It’s in your best interest to work with the FAA’s guidelines, rather than against them. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines and restrictions. 

A few legal requirements to keep in mind include: 

• Certifications : Make sure you’ve passed the Part 107 exam and are certified as a remote pilot. 
• Registering Your Drone : Register your drone with the FAA. 
• Flying in Legal Airspace : Only fly in legal airspace. The best resource in the U.S. to determine authorized airspace is the B4UFLY app, which is an FAA-partnered app that allows drone pilots to access an interactive map that identifies airspace classes. 

Niche Selection 

Do you want to be a drone pilot that photographs real estate photography, weddings, or marketing content? When it comes to selecting a commercial drone business niche, it’s critical to consider how you’re going to stand out from the competition while maintaining a steady customer flow. 

Some factors to consider when selecting your drone business niche include: 

• Equipment Required : Will your niche require a heavy-duty drone like the DJI Phantom 4 Pro, or something more simple, like a DJI Mini 3 Pro ? Typically, the more sophisticated the drone, the higher earning potential for your business. 
• Environment : Do you want to be spending time in nature flying a drone through farmlands or national parks, or do you prefer inspecting buildings? Or, in the case of real estate drone photography, taking photos and videos in and around houses and properties. 
• Content Production : Drone footage and images can require editing and post-production that can often deter pilots and photographers. It’s important to understand your willingness to edit and the content you capture through video editing software before making an extensive commitment to your niche. 
• Services : As a drone photographer, it’s very likely that you’ll need to provide editing services to your clients. In many cases, you’ll need to edit videos and raw images to fit your client’s needs. It’s worth considering if you’ll want to offer different photo and video editing packages along with your services. 

Determine what business setup and structure most benefits your entrepreneurial goals. Your drone business can operate as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), C corporation, or S corporation. 

Freelance drone pilots often fly under a sole proprietorship or LLC structure. Sometimes it makes sense to set up your drone business as a partnership, C corporation, S corporation, or other types of corporation. Each structure has its own advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to choose one that aligns with your goals and potential liabilities.

It’s also necessary to obtain insurance coverage to protect your business and assets. In fact, the FAA requires drone operators to have liability insurance. 

Finally, it’s always recommended to have a record-keeping system. This will help you manage your finances and ensure you are compliant with tax laws. 

One of the most difficult aspects of all businesses is finding new customers. Ultimately, finding new customers is the only way you’re going to generate income and improve your profit margins. In some cases, you may be able to rely on relationships you’ve established throughout the years to generate new customers. But more often than not, you will need to deploy marketing and sales tactics that generate brand awareness and new leads. 

Some of our top suggestions for marketing your drone business include: 

• Digital Properties : Create a website for your business, along with social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. 
• Networking : Attend industry events and meetups that attract your ideal buyer personas. 
• Portfolio: Create a portfolio to showcase your work. In many cases, you can use an Instagram channel as a digital portfolio. 
• Partnerships : Form partnerships with associates throughout the industry and exchange value with each other. 
• Sales Outreach : Research companies that could utilize your drone services and reach out via email and phone, offering your services with unique value propositions. 

Photography Drone Selection

Selecting a drone as a drone photographer can be daunting. There are hundreds of drones to choose from which could cost you a few hundred to thousands of dollars. 

To help you with your selection, we’ve identified some of the top criteria: 

• Sensors : The last thing any drone pilot wants to do is crash their drone into a tree or building. Sensors help with obstacle avoidance and guiding the drone safely through various terrains. 
• Stability : Gimbals stabilize the camera, keeping it level and allowing for smooth footage. Small motors and sensors adjust the camera’s position to compensate for the drone’s movement. 
• Battery Life : Some drones can only fly for less than 20 minutes while others can last up to an hour. You’ll want to consider the required distances and flight durations for drone photography projects before making a purchase. 
• Camera Quality : Purchasing a drone with at least 12-megapixel photos and a 4K camera is recommended if you’re going to be offering professional drone photography services. In general, the more you pay for your drone, the better quality the camera. 
• Additionally Features : Obstacle avoidance, GPS, and return ot home are some of the key features that can making flying and capturing photos and videos easier. 

Recommended Photography Drones for Beginners

If you’re just getting started as a commercial drone photographer, you’ll want to select a drone that matches the type of work you’ll be doing, along with your pilot skillset. There’s a bit of a learning curve when it comes to flying drones, so brace yourself to spend some hours learning how to fly. 

We recommend the following drones for beginner drone photographers: 

• DJI Mini 3 Pro : the DJI Mini 3 Pro is very affordable, weighs less than 0.55 lbs., and shoots 4K video at 30 FPS. The battery lasts around 32 minutes and the drone comes with several user-friendly intelligent flight modes such as Mapping & 3D Modeling, Digital Zoom, Hyperlapse, MasterShots, and FocusTrack. 
• Skydio 2+ : the Skydio 2+ is a great drone that also has a 4K camera at 60 FPS and is very affordable. The battery life is 27 minutes and can fly up to about 36mph/58kph. Some key features include autonomous subject tracking, collision detection, ease os use, and automatic video recording. 
• Ryze Tello : the Ryze Tello is very affordable, has a 5MP camera, is small and lightweight, and has responsive controls. This is a great starter drone that’s a great pick especially if you’re on a budget for your first drone.

Mastering the fundamentals of being a commercial drone entrepreneur will take time, but in the long run, is totally worth it. Once your business is up and running, you’ll want to double down and scale so you can watch your profits grow. Building a business that is highly discoverable for your ideal buyer personas and brings them value is the key to success. Leverage your network, marketing, and skills to get in front of the right customers and you’ll be destined for success. 

We wish you the absolute best in your commercial drone business ventures and happy flying!

About The Author

Rodney Watkins

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How To Start a Drone Photography Business: 9 Keys To Success

Starting a drone photography business can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s not without its challenges. Here are nine steps to success that will help you get your business off the ground and running.

Here are the 9 steps you can take to get started on building your very own drone photography business.

9 Steps to Launching a New Drone Photography Business

1. name your drone photography business.

Give your drone photography business an identity so people will think of it as a well-known and respected brand. You can take the name of your drone photography business from your industry, focus on a geographical location, or use your own name among other options.

The main goal for naming your drone photography business is to make it sound appealing and trustworthy so that people will want to hire you.

2. Determine Your Drone Photography Business Model

There are several possible types of business models for a drone photography business including:

• Selling digital downloads of photos
• Selling physical prints of photos
• Selling photo packages 

No matter which model you choose, make sure that it aligns with your business goals and the services you offer.

3. Choose a Legal Form for Your Business

By incorporating your drone photography business, you will limit your liability. You can incorporate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a C Corporation (C-Corp), or an S Corporation (S-Corp). Or you can operate as a sole proprietorship.

The business structure you choose for your drone photography business will determine the amount of taxes you pay and which state or federal tax forms you need to file.

Read our article comparing the most common drone photography business structures .

4. Write a Drone Photography Business Plan

All drone photography business owners should develop a business plan. 

A business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and operations of a business. It can be used to secure funding from investors or lenders, as well as to guide the day-to-day operations of the business. The business plan should include information on the company’s products or services, market analysis, financial projections, and management team among other things.

Read our article about how to write a drone photography business plan .

5. Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses

There may be required licenses and permits you need to obtain before launching your drone photography business.

For example, in order to operate a drone, you will need to be certified by the FAA. 

You will also need a business license. 

And, if you want to open a studio, there may be zoning permits required.

You must also register your drone photography business as a legal entity with the state where you plan to do business. You can simply file an online form through your Secretary of State website.

Registering with the federal government is also essential so you can properly pay taxes for your business. You will also need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you can apply for at the IRS website, if you plan to hire employees.

Read our article about obtaining the proper drone photography business licenses .

6. Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed

In developing your drone photography business plan, you will figure out how much funding you need to start and grow your business.

If you have your own funds to invest in your drone photography business, you may consider taking advantage of that. In addition to your personal funds, other forms of potential funding for your drone photography business include traditional bank loans, SBA loans, credit cards, angel investors and family and friends.

Read our article about the costs associated with starting a drone photography business to help you determine if funding is needed. 

7. Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently

When you start your drone photography business, it’s essential to have the right technology in place to maximize efficiency. You definitely need a computer with Internet access, and accounting software for tracking expenses and revenues. 

You may also want to invest in a customer relationship management (CRM) system to help manage your clients and prospects. There are many CRMs available, including some that are specific for photographers.

You should also have a professional email address and website for your drone photography business. You can use a platform like WordPress to create a simple website on your own, or you can hire a web designer to create a more customized site.

If you plan to sell your photos online, you will need eCommerce software as well.

Read our article about the technology and software you need to run a drone photography business .

8. Market Your Drone Photography Business to Potential Clients

Before you start selling your services , you have to let the world know you exist. The first step is to create a website so people can learn more about your services and how they benefit them.

After you launch your website, start promoting it through social media channels like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Also consider networking with other people in the drone photography industry through social media and blogs so they can help share your business. 

You also need to start gathering the materials needed to execute on your promotions strategy, which is your strategy for attracting new customers. Drone photography businesses should consider the following promotional strategies for which you should start getting prepared: 

• Creating a portfolio
• Creating an email list
• Photography contests
• Sponsorships
•  Collaborations with other vendors

Read our article about how to market your drone photography business for more tips.

9. Get New Clients & Grow Your Business

When you promote your services , you’ll start to get interest from potential clients . 

Make sure you’re ready to serve these clients . Also, be sure to establish systems to ensure consistency and reduce costs. And be sure to find and train the right people to help you grow your drone photography business.

Read our article about how to effectively grow your drone photography business to learn more.

Starting a Drone Photography Business FAQs

Why start a drone photography business.

The drone photography industry is growing rapidly. Technology has made it possible for anyone with a drone and camera to start a drone photography business. And, there are many opportunities for photographers to make money.

If you have a passion for drone photography and are creative, you may be able to succeed as a photographer. Then, you can grow your business.

What is Needed to Start a Successful Drone Photography Business?

There are several things you need to do to start a successful drone photography business.

First, you will need a “Remote Pilot Certification” from the FAA. You will find online courses and other brief classes in this certification readily available.  

Second, develop your skills. You can do this by taking classes, practicing and studying the work of other drone photographers.

Third, you should create a portfolio of your best work. This will show potential clients what you can do.

Fourth, you need to get the right technology and software. This will help you run your business efficiently.

Fifth, you need to market your business to potential clients. You can do this through social media, networking and creating promotional materials.

Finally, you need to get new clients and grow your business. You can do this by providing good customer service and finding ways to effectively market your business.

How Can I Start a Drone Photography Business From Home?

Start your drone photography business from home by first obtaining a “Remote Pilot Certification” from the FAA. Start developing your skills utilizing your drone and camera. Then, create a portfolio of your best work, get the right technology and software, market your business to potential clients, and finally, get new clients to grow your business.

Starting from home has low overhead costs and can be a great way to get your business off the ground. However, you may need to invest in some additional equipment as your business grows.

How Can I Start a Drone Photography Business Online?

The first step in starting a drone photography business online is obtaining a “Remote Pilot Certification” from the FAA. Next, you’ll need to create a website. This will be your platform to showcase your work and market your services.

Once you have a website, promote your drone photography through social media and other online channels. You can also create an email list of potential clients so you can keep them updated on your latest work.

Finally, make sure your website is optimized for search engines so potential clients can easily find you online.

What are Some Tips for Starting a Drone Photography Business?

Here are some tips for starting a drone photography business:

• Develop your skills – Take classes, practice and study the work of other photographers.
• Create a portfolio – This will show potential clients what you can do.
• Get the right technology – This will help you run your business efficiently.
• Market your business – Use social media, network, and create promotional materials.
• Get new clients – Provide good customer service and find ways to effectively market your business.
• Grow your business – Train the right people to help you grow your drone photography business.

Where Can I Find a Simple Checklist for Starting a Drone Photography Business?

A simple checklist to use when starting a drone photography business is as follows:

• Name Your Drone Photography Business : This should be done with care, as your brand is important for attracting the right customers. A simple, memorable name will go a long way.
• Choose a Legal Form for Your Drone Photography Business : Whether you choose to become a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation or another option will depend on your business. Ensure that you are aware of all the implications of each type.
• Determine Your Drone Photography Business Model : Determine how your business will make money. Will you sell products, services, or a combination of both?
• Write a Drone Photography Business Plan : Your business plan will also help you determine what your start-up costs will be and will provide a roadmap with which you can launch and grow .
• Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses : In most locations you will be required to apply for a business license and/or permits before you can begin operations.
• Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed : You will need to know how much money you have to spend on all of your business-related expenses before opening any doors. If needed, apply for a small business loan or other funding options.
• Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently : You need to have the right tools in place to succeed. Implement software that will help you manage your time, contacts, and business operations in general.
• Market Your Drone Photography Business to Potential Clients : A solid marketing plan will be crucial to your success. It should focus on attracting the right customers so that you can provide them with the services they truly need. 
• Get Clients & Grow Your Business : Once you have a solid marketing plan, it's time to actively pursue and secure those who could benefit the most from your services . 

Starting a drone photography business can be an exciting and rewarding venture. By following the tips we’ve outlined in this article, you’ll be on your way to starting a thriving drone photography business in no time. 

Get instant access to detailed competitive research, SWOT analysis, buyer personas, growth opportunities and more for any product or business at the push of a button, so that you can focus more on strategy and execution.

Table of contents, designing a winning drone photography business plan.

• 4 April, 2024

Starting a Drone Photography Business

In recent years, the rise of drone photography businesses has been significant. These businesses offer a unique perspective and capture expansive views of special events, businesses, and even real estate that would be impossible using only traditional photography. Aspiring photographers with a passion for innovation and a keen eye for capturing stunning aerial shots are increasingly venturing into the world of drone photography.

The Rise of Drone Photography Businesses

The global drone services market is on a growth trajectory, with a projected increase from $22.5 billion in 2020 to $42.8 billion in 2025 ( Northwest Registered Agent ). This substantial growth indicates the increasing demand for drone photography services across various industries. The versatility and unique perspectives offered by drones have revolutionized the way photographs are captured and utilized.

Benefits of Drone Photography in the Industry

Drone photography brings numerous benefits to various industries, particularly in real estate. Traditional photography methods often struggle to capture the full scope and beauty of properties. Drones, on the other hand, provide an unparalleled view, showcasing the landscape, size, and surrounding neighborhood of a property ( Small Business Trends ). This allows potential buyers to have a comprehensive view, potentially impacting their purchasing decisions.

Some key benefits of drone photography in the industry include:

• Aerial Perspectives: Drones enable photographers to capture stunning aerial shots that provide a unique and captivating perspective of events, landscapes, and properties. These shots can reveal details and angles that were previously inaccessible.
• Increased Attractiveness: The use of drone photography can significantly enhance the visual appeal of real estate listings, making them stand out from the competition. Aerial shots can showcase the beauty of a property, highlight its size, and even show off the surrounding neighborhood, attracting potential buyers.
• Versatility: Drone photography is not limited to real estate. It can be utilized in various industries, including special events, tourism, construction, and more. The ability to capture dynamic shots from above offers endless creative possibilities.
• Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness: Drones can cover large areas quickly, reducing the time and effort required to capture stunning shots. This efficiency translates into cost-effectiveness for both photographers and clients.

As you embark on starting your own drone photography business, it is important to be aware of the legal requirements, obtain the necessary certifications and licenses, and structure your business accordingly. Additionally, investing in quality equipment and insurance is crucial for the success and safety of your operations. For more information on starting a drone photography business, check out our comprehensive guide on starting a drone photography business .

By understanding the rise of drone photography businesses and the benefits they bring to the industry, you can position yourself to take advantage of this growing market. With careful planning and a solid business strategy, you can elevate your photography business to new heights and capture breathtaking images from above.

Getting Started in the Drone Photography Business

Before launching your drone photography business, there are several essential steps you need to take to ensure a successful start. This section will guide you through obtaining the necessary certifications and licenses, structuring your business, and investing in equipment and insurance.

Obtaining the Necessary Certifications and Licenses

Operating a drone for commercial purposes requires compliance with regulations set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Commercial drone photographers are required to carry a Part 107 Drone License through the FAA and register their drones with the agency. To obtain the Part 107 license, aspiring drone photographers must pass a knowledge test and pay a fee of $160 ( Northwest Registered Agent ). Obtaining this license demonstrates your commitment to safety and professionalism, allowing you to legally operate your drone photography business.

Structuring Your Drone Photography Business

Structuring your drone photography business properly is essential for legal and financial purposes. You have several options when it comes to business structure, including sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each structure has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to consult with a legal professional or business advisor to determine the best fit for your specific needs.

Registering your business with the appropriate local, state, and federal authorities is also a crucial step. This process ensures that your business is recognized and compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.

Investing in Equipment and Insurance

Investing in the right equipment is crucial for delivering high-quality aerial imagery and videos. Determine the necessary equipment, technology, and software requirements for your professional drone photography service. This may include drones with advanced camera capabilities, spare batteries, memory cards, stabilizers, and other accessories. Conduct thorough research and choose equipment that aligns with your business goals and budget ( finmodelslab.com ).

In addition to equipment, it’s imperative to have dedicated drone insurance. This insurance provides coverage for potential accidents, damages, or liability issues that may arise during drone operations. Having insurance not only protects your business but also instills confidence in potential clients, increasing their willingness to work with your drone photography business. Consult with insurance providers specializing in drone photography businesses to find a policy that suits your needs ( drone photography business insurance ).

By obtaining the necessary certifications and licenses, structuring your business appropriately, and investing in quality equipment and insurance, you are laying a solid foundation for your drone photography business. These steps help ensure compliance with regulations, protect your business and clients, and position you as a professional in the industry. Remember to stay informed about any updates or changes in regulations and industry best practices to maintain a successful and thriving drone photography business.

Creating a Drone Photography Business Plan

To establish a successful drone photography business, it is essential to create a comprehensive business plan. This plan will serve as a roadmap for your operations and help you make informed decisions. In this section, we will explore three crucial aspects of creating a drone photography business plan: understanding the market and target audience, determining pricing and revenue streams, and conducting competitor analysis.

Understanding the Market and Target Audience

Before launching your drone photography business, it is crucial to conduct thorough market research to identify your target market and understand their needs and preferences. By doing so, you can tailor your services to meet the specific requirements of your customers and differentiate yourself from competitors. Analyzing the market landscape will also help you identify potential opportunities and challenges.

To understand the market and target audience, consider factors such as:

Demographics: Determine the demographics of your target audience, such as age, gender, location, and interests. This information will guide your marketing efforts and help you craft messages that resonate with your audience.

Industry Focus: Identify the industries or sectors that require drone photography services. This could include real estate, construction, agriculture, or events. Understanding the needs and pain points of these industries will enable you to position your services effectively.

Market Trends: Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in the drone photography industry. This will help you adapt your services and stay ahead of the competition.

By understanding your target market, you can develop marketing strategies that effectively reach and engage potential customers. For more information on marketing strategies for your drone photography business, refer to our section on marketing strategies .

Determining Pricing and Revenue Streams

Determining the right pricing for your drone photography services is crucial for the success of your business. Consider factors such as equipment costs, labor, and market demand. It is important to offer a range of pricing options to cater to different client budgets and project requirements.

When determining your pricing and revenue streams, consider the following:

Equipment Costs: Take into account the cost of purchasing and maintaining your drone equipment, cameras, and other necessary tools. This includes considering any financing or leasing arrangements.

Labor Costs: Assess the time required for each project, including pre-flight preparations, flight time, post-processing, and client communication. Calculate your labor costs based on an hourly rate or project basis.

Market Demand: Research the prevailing market rates for drone photography services in your area. Consider whether you want to position your services as premium or more budget-friendly, depending on the target market.

Additional Services: Explore additional revenue streams, such as aerial videography, 3D mapping, or surveying. Offering a range of services can help diversify your income and attract a wider range of clients.

By carefully considering these factors, you can establish competitive pricing that reflects the value of your services while remaining attractive to potential clients. For more tips on running a successful drone photography business, refer to our section on drone photography business tips .

Conducting Competitor Analysis

A thorough competitor analysis is crucial for understanding the competitive landscape of the drone photography industry and identifying opportunities for differentiation. By studying your competitors, you can gain insights into their service offerings, market positioning, strengths, weaknesses, and operational tactics.

When conducting competitor analysis, consider the following:

Direct Competitors: Identify other drone photography businesses in your area or those targeting similar industries. Analyze their services, pricing, marketing strategies, and customer reviews. This will help you identify areas where you can differentiate your business and provide unique value to clients.

Indirect Competitors: Consider indirect competitors such as traditional surveying methods, manned aerial services providers, or other alternative solutions that clients may consider. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses can help you position your drone photography services effectively.

Market Gaps: Look for gaps in the market that your competitors might not be addressing. These gaps could be specific industries or niche services that are underserved. By focusing on these areas, you can set yourself apart and attract clients seeking specialized drone photography services.

By conducting a thorough competitor analysis, you can develop strategies to differentiate your drone photography business and capitalize on opportunities. For more information on marketing strategies, refer to our section on marketing strategies for your drone photography business .

Creating a comprehensive drone photography business plan involves understanding the market and target audience, determining pricing and revenue streams, and conducting competitor analysis. By dedicating time and effort to these aspects, you can set a strong foundation for your business and position yourself for success in the drone photography industry.

Marketing Strategies for Your Drone Photography Business

To elevate your drone photography business and stand out in a competitive market, effective marketing strategies are essential. Here are three key approaches to consider: building a professional online presence, utilizing SEO and social media marketing, and creating informative content through blogging.

Building a Professional Online Presence

Establishing a professional online presence is crucial for making a great first impression and attracting potential clients to your drone photography business. A well-designed website that showcases your services, portfolio, and customer testimonials is key. Consider investing in a user-friendly layout with intuitive navigation to ensure a positive user experience. By highlighting your expertise and the quality of your work, you can build trust and credibility with prospective clients ( Blue Falcon Aerial ).

Don’t forget to optimize your website for search engines by using relevant keywords, meta tags, and descriptions. This will help improve your visibility in search engine results and attract organic traffic to your site. Additionally, make sure your website is mobile-friendly, as an increasing number of users access the internet through mobile devices.

Utilizing SEO and Social Media Marketing

To maximize your online presence and reach a larger audience, it’s crucial to combine both search engine optimization (SEO) and social media marketing strategies. SEO involves optimizing your website and online content to improve your search engine rankings. This can be achieved through keyword research, on-page optimization, and link building. By implementing effective SEO practices, you can increase your website’s visibility and attract targeted traffic.

Social media platforms provide a powerful tool for promoting your drone photography business. Create profiles on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Regularly update your social media accounts with engaging content, including high-quality images and videos showcasing your work. Interact with your audience, respond to comments and inquiries, and consider running targeted advertising campaigns to reach potential clients in your area.

Creating Informative Content and Blogging

Content marketing is an effective strategy for establishing your expertise in the drone photography industry and attracting potential clients. Creating informative content through blogging allows you to provide valuable information to your target audience, answer common questions, and address their pain points. By sharing your knowledge and insights, you can build trust and credibility with your audience.

Consider writing blog posts that cover topics such as drone photography techniques, industry trends, tips for capturing stunning aerial shots, and the benefits of drone photography in various industries. Optimize your blog posts for SEO by incorporating relevant keywords and providing informative, well-structured content. This will not only help improve your search engine rankings but also position you as a trusted authority in your field ( Blue Falcon Aerial ).

Remember to promote your blog posts and other informative content through social media channels and email newsletters. Encourage your audience to share your content, which can help increase your reach and attract new clients to your drone photography business.

By implementing these marketing strategies, you can effectively promote your drone photography business, increase brand awareness, and attract potential clients. Building a professional online presence, utilizing SEO and social media marketing, and creating informative content through blogging will help you stand out in the competitive drone photography market and elevate your business’s success.

Drone Photography in Real Estate

Drone photography has become increasingly popular in the real estate industry, offering unique and captivating aerial perspectives that can showcase properties in a compelling way. In this section, we will explore the legal requirements and compliance involved in drone photography for real estate, as well as the benefits of utilizing this technology and how to effectively target the real estate market.

Legal Requirements and Compliance

When incorporating drone photography into your real estate business, it is essential to comply with the legal regulations governing drone usage. Commercial drone photographers are required to carry a Part 107 Drone License through the FAA and register their drones with the FAA. Obtaining the license involves passing a knowledge test and paying a fee ( Northwest Registered Agent ).

To ensure legal compliance and maintain quality standards in drone photography for real estate, it is crucial to choose certified and licensed photographers. Navigating permissions, permits, and local regulations is essential, along with advance planning and staying informed when hiring a drone pilot ( Captivly ). Realtors can access resources like government websites, industry associations, and legal experts to stay informed about drone regulations and regularly check for updates and guidelines to remain compliant with the law in drone photography practices ( Captivly ).

Prioritizing legal compliance by understanding the legal framework, choosing certified photographers, and obtaining necessary permissions is not only crucial to avoid legal troubles but also to provide a higher level of service to clients. Adhering to legal requirements ensures that drone photography continues to be a valuable asset in the real estate marketing toolkit, providing breathtaking aerial perspectives that attract potential buyers ( Captivly ).

Showcasing the Benefits of Drone Photography in Real Estate

Drone photography offers numerous benefits in the real estate industry. It allows for stunning aerial shots that capture the entire property, showcasing its size, layout, and surroundings from unique angles. Potential buyers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the property’s features, such as landscaping, pools, and architectural details, which may be difficult to capture with ground-level photography alone.

By utilizing drone photography, real estate professionals can create visually compelling marketing materials that set their listings apart from the competition. These captivating visuals can attract more potential buyers, leading to increased interest and faster sales.

Targeting the Real Estate Market

To effectively target the real estate market with drone photography services, it is important to understand the specific needs and preferences of realtors and property sellers. Realtors are constantly seeking ways to differentiate themselves and provide a competitive advantage in the market. By leveraging the unique perspectives offered by drone photography, you can offer a valuable service that helps realtors stand out.

Developing strong relationships with real estate agents and agencies is crucial. Networking within the industry, attending real estate events, and showcasing your portfolio can help establish trust and credibility. Additionally, creating targeted marketing materials that highlight the benefits of drone photography for real estate can effectively communicate the value you bring to the table.

By understanding the legal requirements, showcasing the benefits, and effectively targeting the real estate market, you can position yourself as a trusted and sought-after drone photographer in the real estate industry. With the ability to capture captivating aerial shots, you can help realtors market properties more effectively and provide potential buyers with an immersive experience that sets their listings apart.

The Future of Drone Photography Businesses

As the drone photography industry continues to evolve, it is essential for drone photography businesses to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to the changing landscape. This section explores the future growth and projections for the drone services market, the potential for expanding into new industries and applications, and the benefits of partnering with industry professionals.

Growth and Projections for the Drone Services Market

The drone services market has witnessed significant growth in recent years and is expected to continue expanding in the future. According to Northwest Registered Agent , the global drone service market is projected to double in size between 2020 and 2025, reaching $42.8 billion from $22.5 billion.

Furthermore, a study conducted by finmodelslab.com reveals that the global drone services market is projected to reach $127.3 billion by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate of 53.1%. These figures demonstrate the immense potential for growth and profitability in the drone photography industry.

Expanding into New Industries and Applications

As the drone services market continues to flourish, there are ample opportunities for drone photography businesses to expand into new industries and applications. Drones are being utilized in various sectors, including real estate, construction, agriculture, cinematography, and more. By diversifying their services and targeting these industries, drone photography businesses can tap into new revenue streams and broaden their client base.

For example, in the real estate industry, drone photography has become indispensable for capturing stunning aerial shots of properties. By showcasing the benefits of drone photography in real estate and highlighting the unique perspectives it offers, drone photography businesses can attract clients looking to enhance their property listings and marketing materials. To learn more about drone photography in real estate, refer to our dedicated section on Drone Photography in Real Estate .

Partnering with Industry Professionals

Collaborating with industry professionals can be a strategic move for drone photography businesses. By partnering with marketing agencies, real estate firms, event planners, and other professionals in related fields, drone photography businesses can access new clientele and establish mutually beneficial relationships.

Partnering with marketing agencies, for instance, can provide opportunities for joint marketing efforts and cross-promotion, enabling businesses to reach a wider audience. Real estate firms often require high-quality aerial photography for their listings, making them ideal partners for drone photography businesses in the real estate industry. By forming partnerships with industry professionals, drone photography businesses can leverage their expertise and expand their reach within specific markets.

The future of drone photography businesses looks promising, with ample opportunities for growth and expansion. By staying abreast of market trends, exploring new industries and applications, and fostering strategic partnerships, drone photography businesses can position themselves for long-term success in this dynamic industry.

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The All-in-One Guide to Starting a Drone Photography Business

• Published: May 16, 2019
• Updated: Nov 21, 2023

Drones  have single-handedly changed the aerial photography industry. Thanks to advanced technology and dropping drone prices, becoming a drone photographer is easier than ever. You can survey land, explore hard-to-reach places, or even create a unique  aerial video  for the cost of a simple drone. 

But there’s more to becoming a  professional drone photographer  than buying a drone, snapping some shots, and selling your work…

While drones offer you the chance to capture stunning aerial shots and help improve your portfolio, getting started can be challenging. If you want to create your own drone photography business, you should follow these steps to push ahead of the competition and succeed.

1. Learn the Basics

This may seem obvious, but learning the basics about drones with cameras before starting your business can be helpful.

Drones can be expensive. Investing a lot of money into something that may not work the way you expect it to may not be the best idea.

Though every drone will be different , here are some things all photography drones should have:

• Camera Gimbals:  A gimbal stabilizes your drone camera’s steady from vibrations during flight. This is the key to grabbing high-quality aerial images and has the potential to make or break your shots.
• GPS:  Just like the GPS functionality you have on your smartphone, drones have ways of determining their exact position and relaying that information to the controller so you always know where your drone is.
• FPV:  FPV stands for “First Person View” and refers to when your camera broadcasts live video content to you as you fly your drone. Though typically used for drone racing, this feature is helpful when grabbing that one-of-a-kind shot mid-air.
• Flight Controller:  This is the equipment used to fly your drone. It should come with flight status data, a map overlay, waypoint control, live streaming video, a long-lasting battery, and manual flight control.
• Collision Avoidance:  This feature helps your drone avoid crashing into objects that appear in its flight path.

Of course, these are just the basics. The range of features your camera drone has will depend on the model you buy.

2. Buy the Right Equipment

To start a drone photography business, you must buy a drone that can handle your photography needs. And while knowing the basics mentioned above is a great start, there’s more to owning a camera drone than that.

???? Check our list of the best drones for photography .

For example, you must decide whether you want a built-in or on-board camera. Drones with built-in cameras are larger and usually take lower-quality images. However, drones that allow you to attach your own camera are easier to manage and take higher-resolution photos once you learn how to fly the drone.

It’s recommended that beginner drone photographers start with a lightweight drone that doesn’t come jam-packed with features. They are sturdy, cheap, and easier to fly than their heavier counterparts. After all, just because you have a high-tech drone doesn’t mean you can take amazing images from the start. Drone photography takes practice; sometimes, that practice is better done with a cheaper model.

In addition, it’s best if you familiarize yourself with some of the most vital drone accessories:

• Additional drone batteries since drones typically fly between 10-25 minutes before dying
• Propeller guards to help prevent damage from getting too close to things like foliage
• Extra propellers in case they do become damaged mid-flight
• SD cards so you never run out of memory while out shooting
• LED lights for nighttime flights
• Landing pad to protect your drone when you’re finished

Need help finding a suitable drone for your needs? Check out resources like That Drone Show and Drone Camps RC on YouTube for testing, reviews, and drone comparisons.

Modula Gallery Plugin

Start your drone photography business by displaying your masterpieces in stunning galleries!

3. Learn to Fly

If you don’t know how to fly your drone correctly, you can’t expect to grab worthy images or videos for your drone photography business.

It’s okay to start with a basic drone camera and work up to more advanced drones with specialty add-ons. Mastering the craft of aerial photography from the beginning will help you hone your skills, become a better photographer, and secure more customers and sales in the long run.

Here are some helpful tips for getting started:

• Read the manual so you know how everything is supposed to work
• Configure your speed and maneuvering settings
• Test the camera settings each session to make sure you get the best images possible

In addition, be sure to read up on how to use these standard features:

• Smartphone feed for seeing exactly what your drone camera is capturing
• Smart mode to help with stabilizing shots in windy or otherwise shaky conditions
• Tracking so you can capture elements, such as yourself, in every shot
• Geofence so you can restrict how high and far your drone will go

Again, the features you can use will depend on your model. However, knowing which features exist and are helpful for those just starting gives you a good foundation to work with.

4. Update Yourself on the Laws

Many places have strict rules regarding drones, their flight patterns, and the types of images they can capture. This is especially true if you are near private property, federal buildings, schools, or airports.

Knowing where you can operate your drone will help you avoid fines. For example, drones weighing between 0.55 and 55 lbs in the United States require a  Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) registration . 

It’s also important to note that taking photos with a drone for personal use is acceptable. But if you plan to use the images you capture for commercial use, you’ll need professionals’ help to ensure you aren’t breaking any federal rules by selling your drone images.

It’s important to note that different countries will have different rules regarding commercial drone photography. And as drones with cameras become more commonplace, new legislation is being developed to address new situations.

???? Check out the FAA website for more information about drone laws in the United States. For those in the UK, refer to the Civil Aviation Authority website .  Lastly, check out this helpful article for more generalized information about where you can legally fly your drone.

Additional Legal Considerations

You might also consider doing the following to help better protect yourself:

• Buy Drone Insurance:  This protects you against accidents involving your drone and gives you priority over those without it. It’s also nice to point out to potential customers so they never fear that you captured an image illegally. Lastly, you want to protect your investment in every way possible since drones and their accessories can become expensive as you advance your business. 
• Get a Flying License: While there is no simple “yes” or “no” answer to the question about needing a flying license ( mainly because the answer is primarily based on where you live ), the truth is many countries will require licensure for those flying drones for commercial purposes. In other words, if you’re making money with your drone, you should probably get a license.

Remember, we are  not  lawyers! We are simply relaying helpful information. It’s ultimately your responsibility to research local and federal laws to avoid fines or punishment. Consider consulting with a professional if you are unsure how to conduct your drone photography business per the law.

5. Prepare a Pre-Flight Checklist

Creating a pre-flight checklist is crucial if you rely on the images you capture to make money. After all, you don’t want to waste time or money taking aerial shots. And being prepared before you start is the best way to avoid preventable issues. It will also ensure everyone is safe, including your drone.

Here are some of the most important things to include on your pre-flight checklist:

• Flying Area: Where will you be flying your drone? Will it be on private property where you need a permit and permission, or in a public area?
• Surroundings: Will there be a lot of people around? Will you have the freedom to fly high and low without risk of injury or damage? Will you need permission from anyone around to have a drone flying near them?
• Weather Conditions: What will the weather be like and how will you need to prepare?
• Battery Life: Do you have all your batteries charged and extras on hand? How long will have to capture the images you want to photograph?
• Drone Settings: Based on things like weather, surroundings, and fly area, what settings will you need to configure on your drone to capture the highest resolution images possible?
• Propellers: How do your propellers look? Do they need replacing, and if so, do have some on hand?
• Drone Camera: Is the drone’s camera properly mounted, whether built-in or on-board?
• Controls: Are all the functions on the controller working? Is your smartphone properly synced with the controller? Are the controller and drone communicating with one another?

Answering all of these questions before you set out to take your aerial shots will save you much time and frustration. It will also ensure you grab the best images possible, which will only help your business succeed.

6. Remember Drone Photography Tips and Tricks

Besides remembering every step up until now, you must familiarize yourself with some tips and tricks for capturing the best aerial shots you can:

• Start filming or taking photos right before you hit the sweet spot and continue afterward to guarantee you got the shot you want
• Always watch your battery life so you don’t risk losing out on a great shot or accidentally crashing your drone
• Be aware of the sunlight, just as you would taking photographs on land, to prevent unwanted shadows, cast-offs, or warped images
• Aim to take photos of things directly in front of the drone camera for the best quality and perception
• Experiment with long exposure to capture movement with your still shots
• Look for patterns and symmetry as they are pleasing to the eye and create a sense of order

You can follow many tips and tricks to get your drone photography business started in the right direction. And the better the images you capture, the more clients and customers you’ll have. That’s why the ultimate tip for starting a drone photography business is never to stop  learning .

???? Check out our top picks if you’re looking for the best online places for photography courses and guides .

7. Work on the Business Side of Things

It can be fun and exciting to invest in a drone, learn all the tips and tricks for taking great pictures, and get out into nature and start snapping shots or recording video content. But remember,  this is a business you’re creating,  and you need to find a way to monetize your new skills as a drone photographer.

Study the Competition

As drone photography advances, you’ll find more drone photography businesses emerging. If you want to be competitive, you have to study the competition and see the gaps in services so you can fill those gaps and offer customers or clients what they’re looking for but can’t find.

For instance, maybe all the drone photographers in your area only focus on still shots, leaving video content open. Or only high-end services are being offered, and you can offer lower prices for those looking to buy affordable aerial prints.

Don’t waste your time trying to join an oversaturated industry. Instead, highlight your specialties and choose a niche ( such as real estate, boats, landscapes, etc. ) that is both competitive and unique to generate the most revenue possible.

Create an Online Portfolio

People are always looking online for businesses to help them with their photography needs, such an example is this article:  6 Things to consider when making your portfolio website . 

And if you sell prints of your aerial shots, you can bet people will be online looking to buy.

Because of this, you should launch a website where you  showcase your best work  and give people a way to either buy from your online store or get in touch and hire you.

Market Your Drone Photography Business

Stacy Garlington , the owner of DIJ Aerial Photography Academy, says that these days almost everyone has a social media account, and “By posting your best images this will get the word out that you are serious about pursuing aerial imaging.”

You can’t just hope that people will hire you for your drone photography services or buy your aerial images because they happened to land on your website. You have to market to your target audience. If you don’t, all you have is an expensive hobby that makes you no money.

By posting your work on social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, you can reach a broader audience, drive traffic to your website, and secure highly qualified leads interested in what you offer.

In addition to promoting your online business, you should monetize your love of drone photography by  selling your photos online  on platforms like Adobe Stock, Getty, or Shutterstock to increase your profits and establish your reputation as a professional drone photographer.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it – we hope you enjoyed our ultimate guide to starting a  drone   photography  business! ????

Launching a drone photography business can be tricky if you aren’t sure where to start. But once armed with the proper steps, a little advice, and some persistence to succeed, you can have your online business up and running in no time, complete with images of your best work that people will want to buy.

If you want to ensure your aerial images are secure from theft, check out this guide to  protecting your website images . And if you need help getting your drone photography business website started, look at the  best WordPress plugins for photographers .

Cristian Raiber

Self-taught entrepreneur with a deep passion for learning, understanding human nature and what drives businesses forward. Our products are being used by over 7500,000 users, daily.

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11 Comments

Good stuff!

Thank you so much, I am glad you feel that way. Don’t forget, we always have good stuff here for you guys. Come back again!

~ Lindsay 🙂

Thanks for taking the time to put this guide together Lindsay! 🙂

You are so welcome! I am glad you enjoyed it. Be sure to come back again and check out more great content!

Amazing article you’ve put out there.

Any kind of business consists of the technical part and the sales and marketing part getting better in both of these sides is essential for the growth and the development of the business.

For example, if you take brilliant drone shots but you’re not good at marketing them then your business will suffer because no one knows you and vice versa if you’re a good marketer but a lousy photographer you will have a bad reputation.

It’s essential to have both, and this article helps to achieve that.

I agree, Karim – thanks for the kind words about this article! 🙂

Your work is great inspiration for me. I like it! Thanks for sharing, very helpful.

Thank you very much. 🙂 . it was very helpful to me . Cheers .

This is great information and knowledge. I appreciate you sharing it!

I bought drone but not the expensive one, I am still confused on how to operate it. Want to cover weddings with drone

Planning to start a Drone photography business.All information can be considered useful. Regards, Mike.

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Small Business Trends

Starting a successful drone photography business, understanding commercial drone photography.

Drone photography is rapidly becoming a mainstay in numerous industries. There are many ways to use drones as you learn how to make money with photography . Real estate is just one of them, where drone-captured aerial views have transformed property showcasing. There’s also the events sector, where drones have revolutionized the way we capture and memorialize special moments, from weddings to large-scale festivals. The tourism industry is another arena where drone photography is making waves, enabling stunning perspectives of travel destinations.

The Benefits of Starting an Aerial Photography Business

Are drone photography businesses profitable, challenges in the drone photography business.

Even with blue skies and clear horizons, the drone photography business is not without its turbulence. Here are some challenges you might encounter:

Key Steps to Start a Drone Photography Business

Acquire the necessary skills for flying drones and certification for aerial photography, choosing the best drone for a photography business.

Setting Up Your Business – Legal Considerations and Drone Insurance

Building a drone photography portfolio and finding clients, scaling and growing your drone photography business.

Expanding your drone photography business? Excellent! But as the sky has no limits, neither should your aspirations. Let’s look into strategies to elevate your venture to the next tier.

Investing in Advanced Equipment

Diversifying your services, building partnerships and collaborations, marketing and digital presence, getting a great drone photography business website, drone photography tips, mastering the art of composition in aerial photography, understanding the drone’s camera settings, embracing different perspectives and angles, the importance of planning and safety precautions, faqs: drone photography business, do i need a license to start my own drone photography business, what is a remote pilot certificate.

A Remote Pilot Certificate is a certification issued by the FAA that permits individuals to operate drones for commercial use. It ensures that the operator understands the regulations, operating requirements, and safety procedures for drones. To obtain one, candidates must be at least 16 years old, pass an initial aeronautical knowledge exam, and undergo security vetting by the TSA.

What type of drone is best for a drone photography business?

How much can i earn from a drone photography business, how can i attract clients to my drone photography business, what role does the federal aviation administration play in drone photography.

The FAA oversees and regulates drone use in the U.S., ensuring safe skies for all. This includes setting rules for drone operations, defining no-fly zones, issuing licenses like the Remote Pilot Certificate, and updating safety regulations.

What type of insurance do I need for a drone photography business?

How much should i charge as a drone photographer, does drone photography sell, how are drones used in real estate photography.

Drones offer an unparalleled view of properties, allowing potential buyers to see the full scope of a property, its landscape, and its proximity to other landmarks. Aerial shots can showcase the beauty of a property, highlight its size, and even show off the surrounding neighborhood, giving buyers a comprehensive view and potentially impacting their purchasing decision.

Photography Spark

Business Education for Photographers

The All-in-One Guide to Starting a Drone Photography Business

Last updated on April 28, 2020 By Photography Spark

** This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Opinions expressed are based on the Author’s own experience.

Being able to buy and use a drone is a fairly new thing and drone photography is booming all over. It’s stepped up aerial photography, making it cheaper and easier for photographers to capture scenes they once only dreamed imaginable.

If you’re thinking about starting a drone photography company, you’re likely taking a step in the direction of constant work. So, we’ve created an all-in-one guide to help you start your drone photography business. Everything you need to know about getting your foot in the door is in this article.

The Steps to Starting a Drone Photography Business

You can’t just jump headfirst into drone photography. There are steps you need to take before you start shooting. Let’s jump right in:

1. Get Certified to Fly a Drone

In the United States, you have to be certified to fly a drone for commercial purposes, kind of like a drone license. If you plan on making money with your drone, you’re using it for a commercial purpose and it is considered a commercial drone.

This wasn’t necessary until 2016 when the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) passed a set of rules for flying a drone for commercial purposes . This set of rules includes that you must receive a Part 107 Certificate from the FAA and register your drone as a “non-modeler”.

2. Purchase the Perfect Drone for Photography

You need the perfect drone for drone photography – not any drone will do. Below, we’ve outlined some of the biggest features to look for when buying a drone for your photography business .

Some of the high-quality and high-priced photography drones include amazing cameras. If not, there are fantastic cameras that you can purchase separately.

3. Purchase Drone Insurance

Yes, there’s drone insurance. There’s insurance for everything but commercial drone insurance for your business is a must-have.

You’re spending a pretty penny on a drone and you want to protect it. They can easily get damaged or destroyed. The right insurance plan will either fix the damages or replace the drone. Otherwise, you’re going to be left spending even more money on a brand new one.

You should also consider liability insurance which is separate from drone insurance. Liability for your drone works just like liability insurance for your car. If your drone causes damage to someone else’s property, your insurance will cover it.

Learn more about photography business insurance .

4. Practice Flying

No matter the settings on your photography drone, you might want to test the waters first.

Take some time out to practice flying it manually. That way, if an emergency comes up, you can take control and get your drone to the ground without crashing it.

5. Create a Portfolio

Most people will want to see your work before they decide if you’re worth hiring. While you may already have a standard portfolio, this doesn’t equate to a drone photography portfolio .

It doesn’t matter if you’re going to be taking drone landscape photography, drone real estate photography, or any other field you’re in. You need photos proving you have the talent and skill potential clients are looking for. Be creative with your portfolio and have fun.

The Right Drone for A Photography Business

Before you purchase a drone for photography, there are a few features to look for. You can’t buy just any drone to capture aerial views. Here are things to consider:

• Gimbal: First, your drone needs a gimbal. What’s a gimbal? It’s a stabilizer that protects your camera from moving around while it’s in the air to prevent blurry or distorted images. The camera will be as stable as it would sitting on a tripod .  
• First Person View: A drone with a First Person View (FPV) is also a huge asset. An FPV allows you to send a live feed from the drone to your phone or other equipment. If you see something while it’s flying in the air, you can take a shot right away.  
• Object/Collision Avoidance: Most higher-priced drones have this technology and its great for all drones, regardless of why they’re being flown. It detects objects and flies around them when you’re using automatic flight mode. This, of course, prevents your drone from colliding with a tree or other obstacles that could get in the way and otherwise cause damage.  
• GPS: GPS also is helpful for any drone. It determines where your drone is flying and sends that information to either your phone or the controller. As helpful as it is, it’s not necessary to start your drone photography business. But it is something to consider, especially if you’re new to flying drones.

Our Favorite Drone for Photography

Parrot anafi fpv drone set.

• Included with the Parrot Anafi FPV Drone set are the drone, a long-range remote control, cockpit glasses, and compact backpack among other small items.
• It includes a 16MB SD card.
• The included camera included is a 4K HDR 21MP with a 3x zoom and 180-degree vertical orientation.
• The cockpit glasses give you a first-person view of everything your camera is seeing.
• The remote controller included with this drone is the Skycontroller 3. This nifty controller has a tablet and cellphone holder and folds up so it’s super portable.
• The drone is easy to fold down and pack away and you can charge it through the USB port on your computer.
• The image or video quality won’t be blurry when you zoom in thanks to the Dolly Zoom function that prevents it from affecting the quality of the image.

Check Price of the Parrot Anafi FPV at Amazon.

The Bottom Line

Going into the drone photography business is a smart move. Before you start, however, you need to know what to consider and the correct steps to take.

We hope this all-in-one guide helps you through the process of beginning your drone photography business.

If you are already established and want to upgrade your equipment, check out our guide to professional drone cameras .

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Comprehensive Drone Business Guide: Starting, Scaling, and Soaring to Success

• Updated on January 30, 2024
• By Jerry Ouellette

Hey there, fellow entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts! Have we got an exciting journey for you – it all starts with our comprehensive drone business guide. Our skies are buzzing with potential and you’re about to take flight into a booming industry. Are you ready to spread your wings?

We understand that diving into the drone industry might seem overwhelming at first. But guess what? We’re here to navigate the skies with you, ensuring a smooth takeoff. Questions on your mind? We’ve got answers. Concerns about regulations or choosing the right model? We’ll tackle them together.

Think of drones, and you might picture amazing aerial footage or cutting-edge delivery services. These are just a snippet of the vast opportunities awaiting us. The key is to stay informed, agile, and ready to adapt. We’re in an era where technology evolves at breakneck speeds, and we’re here to keep you up-to-date.

Join us as we embark on this exhilarating adventure. We’ll explore everything from the latest drone technologies to effective business strategies. With our guide, you’ll master the art of drone entrepreneurship with ease. So, let’s get our propellers spinning and our business soaring to new heights. Are you with us?

Key Takeaways

• We’ve covered the essentials to launching our own drone business, ensuring we’re prepared for the skies ahead. Remember, it’s not just about the drones; it’s about understanding the market.
• By securing the proper licenses and insurance, we’re not just following the law; we’re building trust with our clients. They’ll know we mean business – safely and professionally.
• Don’t we all agree that finding our niche is crucial? It’s about standing out. So, let’s leverage the specific needs within industries like real estate or agriculture to showcase our drone expertise.
• Effective marketing is our best friend. We’ve learned that an online presence and word-of-mouth can go a long way. Let’s get our drones out there and our brand soaring!
• Continuous learning is vital. The drone world is always evolving, just like us. Keeping up with tech developments ensures that our business never falls behind.

Remember folks, it’s all about taking these insights and propelling our drone business to new heights. With these takeaways, we’re a step closer to achieving that dream. Happy flying!

Understanding the Drone Industry

History and evolution of drones.

The drone industry has evolved dramatically from its military beginnings. Initially used for reconnaissance and combat, drones have soared into the commercial and recreational arenas. Our journey through the drone’s history reveals a rapid transformation. This evolution is key to anticipating where this technology may take us next.

Types of drone businesses

Drone businesses have branched into numerous sectors. Common ventures include aerial photography, surveying, agriculture, and delivery services. Each segment requires different skill sets and technologies. Understanding where our passions and skills intersect with these opportunities is crucial. This can guide us in finding our niche in the drone world.

Current market analysis and trends

The current drone market is thriving, with increasing applications in various industries. According to recent reports, the commercial drone market size is expanding. Drones are not only about the sky but also about data. Businesses are tapping into drone technology for its unparalleled ability to gather and analyze data from above.

Future predictions for the drone industry

As for the future, the sky seems to be just the beginning for drones. Advancements in AI and machine learning promise to unlock even more potential. We are on the cusp of seeing drones that are increasingly autonomous and capable of complex tasks. Trends suggest significant growth in both capabilities and market size within the next decade.

In our guide on launching your drone business, we emphasize the importance of staying abreast of these trends. Doing so will not only fuel our entrepreneurial spirit but also prepare us to be pioneers in the drone domains of tomorrow.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Navigating the legal landscape is critical for our drone business. The United States treats airspace as a national asset. Understanding this is the first step to flying legally.

Overview of drone regulations

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) lays out strict guidelines for drone use. We must adhere to these to operate our drones for commercial purposes. The FAA’s Part 107 is the section we focus on the most. This part governs the commercial use of drones weighing less than 55 pounds.

Let’s be clear: no one can fly a drone for commercial use without understanding Part 107. It includes rules on flying over people, at night, and beyond the visual line of sight. Falling foul of these can land us with hefty fines.

We keep a close eye on updates, too. The FAA occasionally tweaks rules. In 2021, for example, operations over moving vehicles became relaxed under certain conditions.

Licensing and certification requirements for commercial drone operations

Anyone in our business who wants to pilot a drone must have a Remote Pilot Certificate. It involves passing an aeronautical knowledge test. We ensure our pilots are certified, which instills trust in our clients.

To maintain our edge, we refresh this knowledge every two years as the FAA requires. This keeps our skills sharp and our business compliant. Don’t forget, a certification lapse can ground our drones—and our business—quickly.

Insurance considerations for drone businesses

To insure your drone business , we deal with a range of potential liabilities. Drone insurance typically includes coverage for damage and liability. It protects us, our clients, and the public in case of accidental damage.

We consider both hull insurance, for physical damage to the drone, and liability insurance. Liability insurance covers injuries or property damage caused by our drones. It’s essential for our peace of mind and for protecting our assets.

Having comprehensive insurance is not only prudent; it’s often a requirement for contracts. Clients feel safer knowing they’re working with a fully insured operation.

Privacy and ethical guidelines

We can’t overlook privacy concerns in our drone operations. Our drones capture images and videos that could invade personal privacy if misused. We navigate this by setting strict ethical guidelines for our pilots.

We’re mindful to comply with local privacy laws. This means gaining consent when flying over private property and being transparent about what we’re recording. We prioritize ethical conduct—you could say it’s our flight pattern for success.

At the end of the day, our drone business is about more than just the technology. It’s about trust and reliability. We ensure we’re always above board, so our clients feel secure at all times.

Crafting a Drone Business Plan

Importance of a comprehensive business plan.

When we dive into the drone industry, a comprehensive business plan isn’t just helpful, it’s crucial. This roadmap outlines our path, detailing everything from start-up costs to potential profits. Without one, we’re navigating blind in a competitive world – and that’s a risk we can’t afford to take.

Market research and competitive analysis

Here’s the deal: we need to know what we’re up against. Conducting thorough market research gives us insight into what’s out there. It guides us in analyzing competitors to find out how we can soar above them. After all, understanding the market is the first step towards conquering it.

Identifying your target market and niche

Finding our tribe means understanding who benefits most from our services. Is it real estate agents hungry for aerial shots? Farmers needing crop surveillance? Pinpointing our niche informs our marketing strategy and service offerings, making sure we’re flying toward the right audience.

Setting clear business objectives and goals

Every successful mission needs clear objectives. We set specific, measurable goals for our drone business to track our progress. From sales targets to operational milestones, these goals keep us focused on growth and sky-high achievements.

Outline of a business plan structure tailored for drone businesses

A well-structured business plan specific to our drone venture includes several key components. We hammer out the executive summary and company description but don’t stop there. Our Services, Marketing Plan, Operational Plan, and Financial Projection sections are all custom-crafted with our aerial aspirations in mind.

With each section, we paint a clear picture for potential investors and partners. We highlight our unique selling propositions and detail our plans to navigate regulations and insurance. Our business plan isn’t just a document; it’s an evolving strategy that pilots our drone business to success.

Drone Technology and Equipment

Types of drones and their commercial applications.

When we consider the types of drones available, it’s like walking into a candy store, right? From multirotor drones to fixed-wing models, each has its specialty. Our multirotor buddies are perfect for aerial photography and real estate, capturing those high-definition images and videos. Meanwhile, fixed-wings, which resemble planes, are ideal for mapping large areas. They’re the marathon runners of the sky. Let’s not forget our tiny pal, the nano drone, suitable for indoor inspections and those hard-to-reach places.

Necessary equipment and technology for a drone business

Diving into a drone business, you’ve got to have the right gear. Think of it as suiting up for the Super Bowl. We need high-resolution cameras, gimbals for stability, and proper communication tech to keep our drone within sight. High-quality sensors come into play for precision work, like surveying. It’s not just about the drone; it’s the reliable accessories that make our services top-notch.

Maintenance, repairs, and upgrades

Maintenance is like the drone’s spa day, and it’s non-negotiable. Regular check-ups keep them soaring smoothly. Even the smallest hiccup in a propeller can lead to a clumsy flight, and we can’t have that. Repairs are part of the gig, and upgrading? That’s how we stay ahead of the curve. It’s a constant cycle of care to ensure longevity and performance.

Software and applications crucial for drone operations

Software is the brain behind the brawn. We’ve got to have top-notch apps for flight planning, data capture, and processing. Think about it; without the perfect software, a drone is just a fancy remote-controlled toy. We use powerful tools for photogrammetry and 3D modeling because details matter. It’s this software that turns raw data into gold mines for our clients.

Our use of technology and equipment is like a well-oiled machine. We don’t just fly drones; we deliver precision, quality, and innovation. With the right types, tech, and tender loving care, our drone business is soaring high, capturing opportunities left and right. How about joining us on this high-flying adventure?

Starting Your Drone Business

Embarking on a drone business journey requires strategic planning. How to start a drone business is a question we often ponder. We must tread carefully through a series of legal and strategic steps.

Steps to setting up the business (legal structure, registration, etc.)

Deciding on our legal structure is imperative. We lean towards an LLC (Limited Liability Company) for protection and flexibility. Registration with federal and state agencies follows. Securing an EIN (Employer Identification Number) us essential for tax purposes.

We never neglect FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) regulations. We obtain necessary drone pilot certifications and ensure our drones are registered. This safeguards us against hefty fines and legal issues.

Insurance for our drones and business shields us from unforeseen liabilities. It covers damage and injury claims which could otherwise anchor us down.

Building your brand (logo, website, marketing materials)

Brand identity sets us apart. Our logo is our visual handshake; it’s crafted to convey our values and mission. A professional, responsive website is our digital storefront. It draws clients and showcases our expertise.

Marketing materials articulate our services in clear, compelling language. They include brochures, business cards, and digital ads. High-quality imagery of our drone work captivates potential clients, illustrating our proficiency.

Financing your drone business (loans, investors, crowdfunding)

We explore various financing avenues. Loans might be a straight path, but they tether us with long-term commitments. Pursuing investors grants us capital in exchange for equity. They not just fund us, but sometimes guide us with their expertise.

Crowdfunding lets us tap into a wider pool of small investors. It’s not just about the funds, it also tests our concept’s market appeal. Managing these funds wisely is key to sustained lift-off.

Establishing operational processes and workflows

Efficient workflows are our operational backbone. We refine our client onboardings, such as consultations and site visits, to ensure smooth take-offs for every project. Automating bookings and payments through our website saves us time and enhances client experience.

Maintenance schedules for our drones ensure they’re always mission-ready. We diligently log flight hours and maintenance activities, forestalling problems before they arise. Safe, legal, and efficient flight operations are our enduring priority.

Tips for setting competitive pricing strategies

Our pricing reflects our value, costs, and market position. We perform market analysis to price our services competitively. This involves studying our competitors and understanding client expectations.

We consider offering packages or tiered pricing for different services. Specializing or providing unique services could command premium pricing. But we always stay attuned to what clients are willing to pay.

Transparent pricing fosters trust. We clarify what’s included in each quote, avoiding surprises that can disrupt client relationships. This transparency cements our reputation and fuels growth through referrals and repeat business.

Marketing Your Drone Business

Embarking on the journey to market our drone business demands strategic thinking and innovative approaches. We recognize that enhancing our online presence is crucial in today’s digital world. Here begins our adventure into marketing our drone services effectively.

Developing a digital marketing strategy

Digital marketing can seem like a maze, but with the right strategy, we can navigate it successfully. Our plan begins with identifying our target audience. We need to know whom we’re talking to, what they need, and how our drone services fulfill that. With goals set and metrics to measure them, we track our progress and keep our strategies agile.

Leveraging social media for brand awareness and customer engagement

Social media isn’t just about posting pictures; it’s about storytelling. We use platforms like Instagram and YouTube to showcase our drone footage, stirring interest and engagement. Interaction is key; we listen and respond to feedback, creating a community around our brand. This cultivates customer relationships that go beyond a single transaction.

Content marketing ideas for drone businesses

Content is king, but context is queen. We publish blogs that highlight the versatility of our drone services, from real estate photography to agricultural surveys. How-to guides, behind-the-scenes looks, and industry news solidify our authority. We create content that educates and entertains, positioning ourselves as thought leaders.

Networking and building partnerships within the industry

No business is an island. Our networking efforts involve attending industry conferences and engaging with online communities. Establishing mutually beneficial partnerships with related businesses expands our reach. Through collaborations, we share our expertise and learn from others, sparking innovation in our services.

Essential SEO practices for a drone business website

Our website isn’t just a digital brochure; it’s a lead generation machine. We optimize it with SEO best practices, utilizing keywords that potential clients are searching for. Our site’s structure, on-page content, and meta descriptions are fine-tuned. This ensures that when clients look for drone services, ours appear front and center.

Each of these strategies is a step in our ongoing quest to ensure that our drone business soars high above the competition. Through careful planning and engaging content, we aim to capture the attention and trust of our prospective clients.

Expanding Your Drone Business

Diversifying your services to capture new market segments.

In the fast-paced world of drone technology, standing still means falling behind. To thrive, we must diversify our services. This involves looking beyond photography and videography. Have we considered thermal imaging for inspections, or GIS mapping for land management? These additions can open doors to new clients and industries, bolstering our business against market shifts and competition.

Collaborating with other sectors (real estate, agriculture, photography)

Collaboration is key in expanding our drone business. By partnering with real estate agents, we can offer stunning aerial views of properties. This service can significantly enhance listings. In agriculture, drones play a vital role in monitoring crops and managing resources. Meanwhile, our aerial photography can complement ground photographers at weddings and events. Identifying these synergies not only diversifies revenue streams but also broadens our network.

Steps for scaling operations and increasing revenue

Scaling our drone operation requires careful planning. First, ensuring we have the right blend of equipment is crucial. We don’t need the most expensive gear, but we do need reliable drones suitable for a variety of use cases. Next, hiring skilled pilots and technicians will help us manage increased workload and maintain a high quality of service. Lastly, never underestimate the power of marketing; a strong online presence and targeted ads can go a long way in attracting new business.

Importance of continuous learning and adapting to technology advances

In the drone industry, technology evolves rapidly. We must stay informed on the latest advancements, be it in battery life, camera resolutions, or flight software. Continuous learning through online courses, webinars, or workshops can give us an edge. It prepares us to swiftly adapt our services, ensuring we meet our clients’ evolving needs. After all, being at the forefront of technology is not just a selling point; it’s a survival strategy for our drone business.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Identifying potential pitfalls in the drone business.

Jumping into the drone business can be thrilling, but it’s not without hiccups. Regulatory compliance is a hurdle we all face. The rules can be tricky, but keeping abreast of FAA regulations is essential. Remember, fines for non-compliance can be steep!

Apart from legalities, there’s also market saturation . The trick is to find a niche that’s untapped. This might mean specialized services, like thermal imaging for inspections. Unique offerings set us apart in a crowded marketplace.

Another concern is technical difficulties – drones aren’t immune to malfunctions. It’s crucial to invest in quality hardware and to keep up with maintenance. A drone down is a day’s work lost, and in our world, time is money.

Strategies for risk management and problem-solving

When it comes to managing risks, we can’t be too careful. First, insurance is non-negotiable. It protects our assets and peace of mind.

We also emphasize thorough training. Skilled pilots are the best defense against accidents. It’s not just about flying; it’s understanding the tech inside and out.

Creating a robust business plan is a must. It should lay out clear goals and contingency strategies. This blueprint helps us navigate the choppy waters of the drone industry.

Building resilience and adapting to market changes

The drone industry evolves rapidly. Staying updated with the latest trends is paramount. Gone are the days when flying a drone was enough. Now, it’s about the data and what we do with it.

E-commerce giants and logistics companies are eyeing drones for delivery. This could be a game-changer for us. Keeping an eye on such developments helps us pivot as needed.

Lastly, customer feedback is our compass. It directs our services and innovation. We listen, adapt, and refine. It’s what keeps our rotor blades spinning and our business soaring.

Ready to Take Off?

So, you’ve dipped your toes into the vast ocean of our drone business guide. Feeling the thrill? Confused about your next big move?

No worries! We’re all in this flight plan together. Think we’ve covered the nitty-gritty details? Bet you’re brimming with questions!

Remember, the sky’s the limit, but we’ve got to navigate those pesky regulations. Tricky, right? But hey, we’re pros at dodging obstacles. After all, isn’t that what piloting a drone is all about?

Your Next Milestone Awaits

Arming yourselves with our guide, you’re now set for the journey ahead. Eager to chart your own course? We’re excited for you!

Let’s not just hover in place, though. It’s time to soar! Ready to turn passion into profit, friends? Said yes? That’s the spirit!

We’ve reached the end of our guide, but it’s just the beginning for you. Still hungry for more? Our knowledge base doesn’t have a ceiling!

Charting Your Flight Path

Partner with us as you map your trajectory in this thrilling drone space. Uncharted territory? Sure, but that’s what exploration is all about!

Got your drones lined up and tech sorted? Your entrepreneurial spirit’s got wings now! Just remember, safe flights and satisfied clients are the true north of this venture.

Let’s touch base soon, shall we? Your stories of conquering the skies with innovative drone solutions—can’t wait to hear ’em! After all, we’re in this drone-powered journey together. Here’s to your sky-high success!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a drone business.

A drone business involves using drones to provide services like aerial photography, surveillance, or inspection. We offer our clients cutting-edge solutions using these high-flying technologies.

Do I need special training to start a drone business?

Yes, you certainly do. We recommend getting certified through an FAA-approved training program. This ensures that you’re well-versed in safety and regulations.

Are there legal requirements for operating a drone business?

Absolutely. We advise you to get familiar with the FAA regulations. Obtaining a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is a must for commercial operations.

Can drones be used for delivering packages?

Yes, drones can be used for package delivery. However, this is subject to specific FAA guidelines. Ensuring your operation complies with these rules is essential.

What types of drone services are in demand?

Real estate aerial photography, agricultural surveying, and industrial inspections are hot. These services provide clients with invaluable data and visuals.

How can I market my drone business?

Utilize social media, attend industry networking events, and consider partnerships. Showcasing your unique drone services is key to catching clients’ eyes.

Is drone insurance necessary?

Definitely. We believe in being prepared for any situation. Drone insurance can protect you from liability and accidental damage both to your drones and property.

How much can I make with a drone business?

Income varies widely based on the services offered and client base. Some well-established drone businesses rake in substantial profits.

What kind of drones are best for starting a business?

Choose drones based on the services you plan to offer. Drones with high-resolution cameras and advanced flight features are typically sought after.

How does weather affect drone flying?

Weather plays a big role. We recommend checking forecasts regularly and planning missions accordingly. Safety and quality of service are our priorities.

Can I operate a drone business part-time?

Sure, starting part-time is a great way to dip your toes in. This allows you to build experience and clientele without overwhelming commitment.

Where can I find clients for my drone services?

Look for clients in industries like real estate, construction, and agriculture. These sectors frequently seek out drone services for various projects.

What’s the future outlook for the drone industry?

The future is bright! Industry forecasts predict growth as technology advances and regulations evolve. We’re excited to be part of this innovative field.

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How To Start A Drone Photography Business

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Introduction

Welcome to the world of drone photography! With the advent of modern technology, drones have revolutionized the way we capture images and videos from the sky. The demand for aerial photography has soared, creating a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to start their own drone photography business.

Drone photography offers a unique perspective that was once only accessible to professional photographers with expensive equipment. Now, anyone with a passion for photography and a drone can take stunning aerial shots. Whether it’s capturing breathtaking landscapes, real estate properties, or special events, drone photography adds a whole new level of creativity and storytelling to any project.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of starting your own drone photography business. From choosing the right equipment to building client relationships, we will cover all the essential steps to help you turn your passion into a profitable venture.

Before diving into the details, it’s important to note that starting a drone photography business requires commitment, dedication, and a willingness to continuously improve your skills. It’s not just about operating a drone and clicking the shutter button; it’s about capturing unique perspectives, composing compelling shots, and delivering high-quality content that exceeds client expectations.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking to expand your services or a newbie eager to enter the world of photography, this guide will provide you with invaluable insights and practical tips to help you succeed. So, let’s get started on this exciting journey!

Choosing the Right Equipment

When starting a drone photography business, selecting the right equipment is crucial. The quality of your drone, camera, and other accessories will directly impact the quality of your aerial photos and videos. Here are some factors to consider when choosing your equipment:

1. Drone: Look for a drone that offers stable flight capabilities, good battery life, and a high-quality camera. Popular options include DJI Phantom, DJI Mavic, and Autel Evo. Consider the drone’s range, flight time, and maximum speed, as these factors will determine your ability to capture shots from varying distances and angles.

2. Camera: Ensure that the drone comes equipped with a high-resolution camera capable of capturing sharp and detailed images. Look for models that shoot in RAW format for maximum editing flexibility. The camera’s sensor size, aperture, ISO range, and image stabilization are important considerations for achieving professional-quality results.

3. Accessories: Invest in additional batteries, memory cards, and propellers to ensure uninterrupted shooting sessions. Filters such as ND filters can help control exposure and create more balanced images. A sturdy carrying case will protect your equipment during transportation.

4. Remote Controller: Check for a remote controller with a comfortable grip and responsive controls. Some models offer advanced features like live video transmission, GPS capabilities, and obstacle avoidance sensors, which can enhance your shooting experience and improve flight safety.

5. Software and Apps: Research the available flight planning and image editing software that are compatible with your drone model. These tools can assist in pre-flight planning, autonomous flights, and post-processing to enhance your images and videos.

Before making your final purchase, read reviews, watch tutorial videos, and compare prices to make an informed decision. Consider your budget, intended use, and long-term goals when selecting your equipment. Remember, investing in high-quality gear upfront will save you time and money in the long run and set the foundation for delivering exceptional results to your clients.

Acquiring the Necessary Skills

While having the right equipment is essential, developing the necessary skills is equally important for success in drone photography. Here are some key skills to focus on:

1. Drone Flight Skills: Familiarize yourself with the controls of your drone and practice flying in different environments. Mastering maneuvers like takeoff, landing, hovering, and smoothly controlling the drone’s movement will help you capture stable and precise shots.

2. Aerial Composition: Learn the principles of composition and apply them to aerial photography. Consider factors such as framing, leading lines, perspective, and the rule of thirds. Experiment with different angles and viewpoints to create visually appealing and balanced compositions.

3. Photography Basics: Understand the fundamental principles of photography, including exposure, shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. Learn how these settings affect your images and how to adjust them accordingly to achieve the desired results. Take the time to study lighting techniques and how they differ in aerial photography.

4. Image Editing: Develop your post-processing skills to enhance your drone photos. Learn how to adjust exposure, color balance, and sharpness to bring out the best in your images. Familiarize yourself with software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop, which offer powerful editing tools specifically tailored for photography.

5. Legal Knowledge: Stay updated on the legal requirements and regulations regarding drone operation in your region. Familiarize yourself with airspace restrictions, permit requirements, and privacy considerations. This knowledge will not only keep you in compliance with the law but also help you educate and reassure your clients about the legality and professionalism of your services.

6. Ongoing Education: Keep learning and improving your skills through online tutorials, workshops, and networking with other drone photographers. Stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in drone photography to continually push the boundaries of your creativity and deliver exceptional work.

Remember, acquiring and refining these skills will take time and practice. Be patient, stay dedicated, and don’t be afraid to experiment and explore new techniques. As you continuously develop your skills, you’ll gain confidence, produce better results, and establish yourself as a capable and reliable drone photographer.

Understanding the Legal Requirements

Operating a drone photography business requires a thorough understanding of the legal requirements and regulations governing drone usage in your area. Compliance with these laws will not only keep you on the right side of the law but also help you build trust and credibility with clients. Here are some key aspects to consider:

1. Drone Registration: Check if your country or jurisdiction requires you to register your drone. In many places, drones above a certain weight limit must be registered with the appropriate authorities.

2. Pilot Certification: Some countries mandate that commercial drone pilots hold a certification or license. Check the requirements and procedures for obtaining the necessary certifications in your area.

3. Airspace Regulations: Understand the airspace restrictions and no-fly zones in your region. It is crucial to know where you can and cannot operate your drone to avoid any legal or safety issues. Familiarize yourself with local airports, restricted areas, and any other designated no-fly zones.

4. Privacy Considerations: Respect the privacy of individuals when conducting aerial photography. Understand the laws regarding capturing images of private properties or individuals without their consent, and ensure you comply with relevant privacy laws.

5. Commercial Permits and Insurance: Some areas may require you to obtain specific permits or licenses to operate your drone commercially. Additionally, consider obtaining liability insurance to protect yourself and your business from any potential damages or accidents.

6. Client Contracts and Usage Rights: Clearly establish the terms and conditions of working with clients through contracts. Specify the ownership and usage rights of the images and videos you capture to avoid any legal disputes in the future.

It is imperative to stay updated with any changes or updates in the drone regulations in your area. Follow local aviation authorities or regulatory bodies for the latest information and guidelines. Being well-informed about the legal requirements will help you operate your drone photography business legally and professionally, ensuring a smooth and successful operation.

Setting Up Your Business

Starting a drone photography business involves more than just capturing stunning aerial shots. It requires careful planning and setting up the foundation of your business. Here are some key steps to help you get started:

1. Business Structure: Determine the legal structure of your business, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or LLC. Consult with a legal professional or business advisor to choose the most suitable structure that aligns with your goals and provides legal protection.

2. Business Name and Branding: Choose a memorable and unique name for your business. Create a logo and develop a brand identity that reflects your style and professionalism. Consistency in branding across your website, social media profiles, and marketing materials will help establish brand recognition.

3. Business License and Permits: Check with your local authorities about obtaining any necessary business licenses or permits. This may include a general business license or specific permits for conducting aerial photography services in your area.

4. Insurance: Protect your business and assets by obtaining appropriate insurance coverage, including liability insurance and equipment insurance. This will provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of accidents or damages.

5. Accounting and Financial System: Set up an accounting system to track your business income and expenses. Consider using accounting software or hiring an accountant to ensure accurate record-keeping, financial management, and tax compliance.

6. Website and Online Presence: Create a professional website to showcase your portfolio, services, contact information, and any client testimonials. Optimize your website with relevant keywords and ensure it is mobile-friendly. Establish a presence on social media platforms to reach a wider audience and engage with potential clients.

7. Pricing Structure: Determine your pricing strategy based on factors such as the complexity of the project, the time involved, and the value you provide. Research the market rates in your area to ensure your pricing is competitive yet profitable.

8. Contracts and Terms of Service: Develop clear and comprehensive contracts outlining the terms and conditions of your services. Include details regarding pricing, deliverables, usage rights, and any other relevant terms to protect both parties involved.

9. Professional Network: Build relationships with other professionals in related industries, such as real estate agents, event planners, or videographers. Collaborating and networking with others can lead to referrals and collaborations that expand your business reach.

By carefully setting up your business, you’ll establish a strong foundation that will support your growth and success as a drone photography entrepreneur. Take the time to plan and execute each step with attention to detail, ensuring that your business is well-positioned in the market and ready to serve clients effectively.

Developing a Portfolio

Building a strong portfolio is crucial for showcasing your skills and attracting potential clients to your drone photography business. A well-curated portfolio demonstrates your expertise, creativity, and versatility as a drone photographer. Here are some tips to help you develop an impressive portfolio:

1. Variety and Diverse Subjects: Include a wide range of aerial photographs showcasing your ability to capture different subjects and environments. This can include landscapes, architecture, real estate, events, and more. Diversifying your portfolio will showcase your versatility and appeal to a broader client base.

2. Quality over Quantity: Focus on showcasing your best work rather than overwhelming viewers with too many mediocre images. Select images that highlight your technical skills, aesthetic eye, and ability to capture captivating compositions.

3. Consistency in Style: Develop a consistent style and aesthetic in your portfolio to create a cohesive and recognizable brand. This could be achieved through consistent editing techniques, color palettes, or shooting preferences. Clients often seek photographers who have a distinct style that matches their vision.

4. Show Progression: Include samples from various stages of your photography journey to demonstrate growth and improvement over time. This can inspire confidence in potential clients and highlight your dedication to continually honing your skills.

5. Consider Context: Provide context and background information for each image in your portfolio, such as the purpose, location, or client. This helps potential clients understand the scope and versatility of your work and how it can relate to their own projects.

6. Presentation: Present your portfolio in a clean and professional manner. Use a well-designed and easy-to-navigate website or a digital portfolio platform to showcase your work. Ensure that the images are showcased in high quality and accurately represent the original captured image.

7. Update Regularly: Continuously update your portfolio with your latest and best work. As you grow as a photographer, replace older images with newer, more impressive ones that reflect your current skill level and style.

8. Seek Feedback: Share your portfolio with fellow photographers or mentors and seek constructive feedback. This can provide valuable insights on areas for improvement and help you refine your portfolio to its optimal state.

Remember, building a portfolio takes time and effort. It’s an ongoing process that evolves as you grow as a photographer. Invest time in curating and updating your portfolio to ensure it reflects your skills, expertise, and unique perspective as a drone photographer.

Marketing and Promoting Your Services

Effective marketing and promotion are key to building a successful drone photography business. By implementing strategic marketing efforts, you can increase brand awareness, attract new clients, and differentiate yourself from competitors. Here are some effective strategies to market and promote your drone photography services:

1. Create a Strong Online Presence: Establish a professional website that showcases your portfolio, services, and contact information. Optimize your website for search engines using relevant keywords to improve your online visibility. Utilize social media platforms to engage with your target audience, share your work, and build a community of followers.

2. Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share your aerial photographs, behind-the-scenes footage, and client testimonials. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and questions, and consider running paid advertising campaigns to reach a larger audience.

3. Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with local businesses that could benefit from your drone photography services. This could include real estate agents, event planners, resorts, or travel agencies. Offer to capture stunning aerial shots for their marketing materials or collaborate on a joint promotional campaign.

4. Participate in Industry Events and Trade Shows: Attend industry-related events, conferences, and trade shows to network with potential clients and professionals in the field. Display your work and distribute business cards or brochures to create brand awareness and generate leads.

5. Offer Special Promotions and Packages: Create special promotions, discounts, or package deals to attract new clients and encourage repeat business. Consider offering limited-time promotions for specific events or holiday seasons to drive interest and increase bookings.

6. Develop Partnerships with Influencers or Bloggers: Collaborate with influencers or bloggers in your niche who have a significant online following. Offer them complimentary drone photo sessions in exchange for exposure on their platforms. Their endorsement can significantly boost your visibility and attract new clients.

7. Utilize Testimonials and Referrals: Encourage satisfied clients to provide testimonials that highlight their positive experience working with your drone photography business. Display these testimonials on your website and share them on social media to build trust and credibility. Additionally, ask happy clients to refer you to their connections, offering incentives as a token of appreciation.

8. Professional Networking: Attend local business networking events or join professional associations to meet potential clients and establish valuable connections. Networking allows you to build relationships with individuals who may refer clients to you or collaborate on projects.

9. Showcase Your Expertise: Demonstrate your expertise and share your knowledge by creating valuable content through blog posts, tutorials, or educational videos. Position yourself as a thought leader in the drone photography industry to gain credibility and attract clients who value your expertise.

Remember, effective marketing requires consistency and persistence. Evaluate the results of your marketing efforts, and adjust your strategies accordingly. With a well-executed marketing plan, you can effectively reach your target audience, generate leads, and grow your drone photography business.

Pricing Your Services

Determining the right pricing for your drone photography services is essential for the success and profitability of your business. While it can be challenging to find the perfect balance, considering various factors will help you set competitive and fair prices. Here are some key considerations when pricing your services:

1. Cost Analysis: Calculate your expenses, including drone maintenance, equipment upgrades, insurance, marketing costs, and any other business-related expenses. Factor in the time spent on each project, including pre and post-production work, to determine your cost base.

2. Market Research: Research the market rates for drone photography services in your area. Compare prices charged by other photographers with similar skill levels and services. Setting your prices too high may deter potential clients, while setting them too low might compromise your profitability.

3. Complexity of Projects: Consider the complexity and scope of each project when determining your prices. Projects that require special permissions, extensive editing, or specific expertise should be priced higher than simpler assignments.

4. Time and Effort: Evaluate the time and effort required for each project. This includes not only the time spent capturing the shots but also post-production work, such as editing and delivering the final images or videos. Factor in the cost of your time and expertise.

5. Value Provided: Assess the value you provide to clients. This includes your unique skills and expertise in aerial photography, the quality of your final product, and the level of customer service you offer. Clients are often willing to pay a premium for exceptional quality and a positive experience.

6. Packaging and Add-Ons: Consider offering different pricing packages that cater to varying client needs and budgets. This could include options for different levels of editing, additional equipment or personnel, or expedited delivery. Offering add-ons or extras allows clients to customize their experience and potentially increase your overall revenue.

7. Client Budget: While it’s important to consider your own costs and value, it’s also essential to be mindful of your potential clients’ budgets. Adjust your pricing accordingly to strike a balance between profitability and providing competitive rates for your target market.

8. Re-Evaluate Periodically: Regularly review and reassess your pricing strategy. Take into account changes in operating costs, market demand, and the value you provide. Adjust your prices as necessary to stay competitive and maintain profitability.

9. Communicate Clearly: Clearly state your pricing structure on your website or in your contract to avoid any misunderstandings. Be transparent about what is included in your pricing and any potential additional charges or fees.

Remember, finding the ideal pricing strategy may require some trial and error. Continuously evaluating and adjusting your prices will help you find the right balance that aligns with your business goals, attracts clients, and ensures sustainable profitability.

Building Client Relationships

Building strong and lasting client relationships is a crucial aspect of running a successful drone photography business. Happy and satisfied clients not only become repeat customers but also refer your services to others. Here are some key tips for building and nurturing client relationships:

1. Effective Communication: Communicate clearly and promptly with your clients from the initial inquiry to the final delivery. Keep them informed about the progress of their project and promptly address any questions or concerns they may have. Good communication builds trust and shows your professionalism.

2. Understand Client Needs: Take the time to truly understand your clients’ needs, vision, and expectations. Ask them questions and actively listen to their responses. Tailor your approach to their specific project requirements to deliver results that exceed their expectations.

3. Provide Exceptional Customer Service: Go above and beyond to provide exceptional customer service. Be responsive, friendly, and professional in all interactions. Make your clients feel valued and appreciated by offering personalized experiences and addressing their individual needs.

4. Deliver High-Quality Work: Consistently deliver high-quality work that showcases your skills and meets or exceeds client expectations. Pay attention to details, maintain consistency in your work, and strive to continuously improve your craft.

5. Manage Expectations: Be transparent and manage client expectations from the outset. Clearly communicate the scope of work, timelines, and deliverables. If there are any limitations or constraints, communicate them upfront to avoid misunderstandings later on.

6. Seek Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from your clients to gauge their satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. Actively listen to their input and take steps to address any concerns or suggestions. Feedback helps you refine your services and demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement.

7. Build Long-Term Relationships: Look beyond individual projects and aim to build long-term relationships with your clients. Stay in touch, send personalized greetings on special occasions, or provide exclusive discounts for repeat clients. Fostering long-term relationships leads to recurring business and client loyalty.

8. Showcase Client Work: With your clients’ permission, showcase your work for them in your portfolio or on your website. This not only highlights your capabilities but also serves as a testimonial to the quality of your services.

9. Ask for Referrals: Satisfied clients are often willing to refer your services to their network. Don’t hesitate to ask for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations can be a powerful marketing tool for your business.

Remember, building client relationships is an ongoing process that requires dedication and consistent effort. By focusing on delivering outstanding customer service, providing high-quality work, and building rapport with your clients, you can foster long-lasting connections that contribute to the growth and success of your drone photography business.

Managing Your Business Finances

Properly managing your business finances is essential for the success and sustainability of your drone photography business. By effectively tracking and planning your finances, you can make informed decisions, maintain profitability, and ensure financial stability. Here are some key steps to manage your business finances:

1. Separate Business and Personal Finances: Establish separate bank accounts and credit cards for your business to maintain clear separation between your personal and business finances. This simplifies bookkeeping, ensures accurate financial records, and helps you track business expenses and revenues more efficiently.

2. Set Up an Accounting System: Choose an accounting system that suits your needs, such as accounting software or hiring an accountant. This will help you track income, expenses, and cash flow, allowing you to have a clear overview of your financial health.

3. Track Income and Expenses: Regularly monitor and record all income and expenses related to your drone photography business. This includes equipment purchases, marketing expenses, insurance premiums, and any other business-related costs. Staying organized and up-to-date with your financial records will enable better financial decision-making.

4. Invoice Promptly and Follow Up: Send out invoices promptly after completing a project. Clearly outline the services provided, payment terms, and due dates. Follow up with clients for any overdue payments politely but firmly to ensure timely payment.

5. Budgeting and Financial Planning: Develop a budget to forecast your income and expenses. Plan for upcoming expenses and set aside funds for reinvesting in your equipment, marketing activities, or professional development. Regularly review and adjust your budget to accommodate changes in your business needs.

6. Cash Flow Management: Monitor your cash flow closely to ensure you have enough funds to cover your operating expenses, investments, and unexpected costs. Implement strategies to improve cash flow, such as offering discounts for early payments or setting up installment plans for your clients.

7. Tax Compliance: Understand and comply with tax regulations specific to your jurisdiction. Keep accurate records of your income and expenses, and consult with a tax professional to maximize allowable deductions and ensure timely filing of tax returns.

8. Seek Professional Advice: Consider working with an accountant or financial advisor who specializes in small businesses. They can provide guidance on financial strategies, tax planning, and help you navigate complex financial matters.

9. Regular Financial Analysis: Analyze your financial statements regularly to assess the overall financial health of your business. Review your profit and loss statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement to identify trends, areas for improvement, and make informed business decisions.

Managing your business finances requires discipline, organization, and attention to detail. By implementing these strategies, you can ensure the financial stability and long-term success of your drone photography business.

Expanding Your Business

Once your drone photography business has gained momentum and established a solid foundation, you may consider expanding your operations to reach new markets and increase your revenue. Here are some strategies to help you expand and grow your drone photography business:

1. Offer Additional Services: Consider diversifying your services by offering additional photography or videography services. This could include ground-level photography, time-lapse videos, or even 360-degree virtual tours. Expanding your services can attract a wider range of clients and increase your earning potential.

2. Explore New Markets: Identify new markets or industries where your drone photography services can be in demand. Research and target sectors such as real estate, construction, agriculture, tourism, or events that may benefit from aerial photography. Tailor your marketing efforts to reach these specific industries and establish your presence in those markets.

3. Collaborate with Other Professionals: Forge partnerships or collaborations with other professionals in related industries. For example, team up with videographers, event planners, or wedding photographers to offer comprehensive packages that include both aerial and ground-level photography services. These collaborations can help you tap into new client networks and expand your reach.

4. Geographic Expansion: If you have established a strong presence in your local market, consider expanding your operations to neighboring areas or even different cities. This allows you to reach a larger customer base and explore new opportunities for growth.

5. Target Corporate Clients: Market your services to corporate clients who may require drone photography for advertising, marketing campaigns, or project documentation. Reach out to businesses, advertising agencies, or marketing departments to showcase how your services can add value to their operations.

6. Invest in Advanced Equipment and Technology: Stay updated with the latest advancements in drone technology and invest in advanced equipment that can expand your capabilities. This may include drones with higher camera resolutions, longer flight times, or specialized features like thermal imaging. Offering innovative and unique services can give you a competitive edge and attract clients seeking cutting-edge aerial solutions.

7. Train and Expand Your Team: As your business grows, you may need to hire additional team members to handle the increased workload and expand your service offerings. Train your team to ensure consistency in quality and customer service. Having a dedicated team allows you to take on larger projects and serve multiple clients simultaneously.

8. Build an Online Presence: Continue to enhance your online presence through consistent branding and active engagement on social media platforms. Regularly update your website and portfolio with your latest work to showcase your growth and expertise. Actively participate in online communities and photography forums to network with industry professionals and generate leads.

9. Customer Referrals and Testimonials: Leverage existing customer relationships by asking for referrals and testimonials. Satisfied clients can become your brand advocates and help attract new clients to expand your business. Offer incentives or referral programs that encourage clients to refer their connections to your services.

Expanding your drone photography business requires careful planning, strategic partnerships, and continuous innovation. By implementing these strategies, you can position your business for growth and take advantage of new opportunities in the ever-evolving drone photography industry.

Starting a drone photography business offers a thrilling and rewarding journey filled with opportunities for creativity and entrepreneurship. While the process may seem daunting, breaking it down into manageable steps allows for a smoother transition into the industry.

From choosing the right equipment to understanding the legal requirements and managing your business finances, each aspect of starting and running a drone photography business plays a crucial role in your success. Acquiring the necessary skills, developing a portfolio, and effectively marketing your services are key to attracting clients and building lasting relationships.

As you navigate the world of drone photography, always strive for excellence in your work and dedication to customer satisfaction. Continuously refining your skills, keeping up with industry trends, and staying informed about legal requirements will position you as a professional in the field.

Remember, success in the drone photography business is not measured solely by revenue. It is also about creating meaningful connections with clients, capturing stunning images, and delivering exceptional service. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities, adapt to changes in the industry, and always seek ways to innovate and expand your offerings.

Starting a drone photography business requires patience, persistence, and a passion for capturing captivating aerial shots. With the right equipment, skills, and business strategies in place, you can turn your love for photography and drones into a thriving and fulfilling entrepreneurial venture.

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How To Start A Drone Photography Business

Posted by Michael Tripac | Jan 10, 2023 | 0

A drone photography business can be a rewarding and exciting enterprise. Drone photography has unique selling points compared to traditional photography methods, and it is gaining in popularity as prosumer drones become more affordable, and demand rises for drone photography. In this article, we shall explore the benefits of drone photography and discuss how to start a drone photography business.

Table of Contents

The Benefits Of Drone Photography

There are several reasons why photographers might want to use a drone in their business:

Unique perspectives:  Drones can capture images and video from angles that would be impossible or impractical to obtain using other methods, which can help photographers to stand out and offer a unique perspective to their clients.

Speed:  Drones can quickly and easily be deployed to capture images and video, making them useful for capturing fast-moving events or objects.

Flexibility:  Drones can be used in various settings and environments, making them versatile tools for photographers.

Efficiency:  Drones can cover large areas quickly, making them an efficient tool for capturing images and video.

To start a drone photography business, or any business for that matter, you need to formulate a business plan.

A drone business plan is essential for several reasons. First, it helps you define and articulate your business idea and goals. This can be useful in convincing potential investors or partners to invest in your business or obtain funding from banks or other lending institutions.

Second, a business plan can help you identify and analyse potential market opportunities and understand the competitive landscape in which your business will operate. This can help you to develop strategies to differentiate your business and target specific customer segments.

Third, a business plan can help you plan and organise your business’s various aspects, including marketing, sales, operations, and financials. This can help you stay on track and ensure that your business is operating efficiently and effectively.

Finally, a business plan can be a valuable tool for tracking and measuring the performance of your business over time. By regularly reviewing your business plan and updating it as needed, you can identify areas for improvement and make adjustments to make sure that the business is ready to meet its goals.

In summary, a drone business plan is essential for planning and growing a successful drone business . By clearly defining your business idea and goals, identifying market opportunities, and planning and organising various aspects of your business, a business plan can help you to take your drone business to the next level.

Get Registered & Obtain A Part 107 Certificate

So, the first thing you will need to familiarise yourself with is the rules and regulations concerning using drones for commercial applications in your country.

For example, if you live in the USA, you will need to obtain the Part 107 certification from the FAA . This certification requires passing an aeronautical knowledge test, which consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and requires at least 70% to pass. The test can be taken at any FAA-approved testing centres found all over the USA, and you will have 2 hours to complete the test. For more information about the Part 107 certification and if you are eligible to take it, visit the FAA website .

Although the FAA does provide training materials for prospective candidates, it’s advisable to purchase one of the many training courses that are now available, many of which guarantee a pass or your money back. One of the best Part 107 training courses is from Pilot Institute, which boasts a 99%+ pass from their students.

Purchase insurance:  It is important to have some form of insurance to protect yourself and your business in case of any accidents or damages. There are various insurance options available for drone operators, including coverage for physical damage to the drone and liability coverage for any third-party claims.

Choose a niche:  Decide what type of drone photography you want to specialise in. This could be anything from real estate to wedding photography and wildlife photography. Identify your target market and build a portfolio showcasing your skills in that specific niche.

Choosing a niche is important when starting a drone photography business, as it allows you to focus your efforts and target a specific market. Here are some tips for choosing your niche:

Consider your strengths and interests: Think about what types of drone photography you enjoy and are the most skilled at. This will help you choose an area of interest you are passionate about and will be more likely to succeed.

Research the market:  Look at what types of drone photography services are in demand in your area and what your competition offers. This will help you to identify areas where there is a need for your services and where you can differentiate yourself from other drone photographers.

Determine your target market:  Consider who your ideal clients would be and what type of photography they are most likely to need. For example, if you enjoy landscape photography, your target market may be real estate agents looking to showcase properties.

Be open to new opportunities:  As you gain experience and build your portfolio, you may discover new areas of drone photography that you enjoy and are good at. Keep an open mind and be willing to explore new niches as they arise.

Ultimately, the most important thing is choosing a niche you are interested in that aligns with your strengths and interests. This will make it more enjoyable to work in and increase your chances of success in the drone photography business.

Purchase A Good Drone: There are many good photography drones to choose from; the drone that is suitable for you depends on your budget. My favourite is the DJI Mini 3 Pro, an excellent beginner-friendly drone and ideal for photography.

Learn Drone Photography Skills:  There are tons of free videos on YouTube that will teach you how to capture great drone photos and videos. If you are completely new to photography, you must learn how to use photo editing applications like Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Lightroom.

Create a website: A website is essential for promoting your business and attracting clients. It should include a portfolio of your work, information about your services and rates, and contact information. You may also want to include a blog or news section to keep clients updated on your latest projects and accomplishments.

Promote your business:  In addition to your website, there are several ways to promote your drone photography business. Network with local businesses, join industry organisations and attend events and trade shows. You should also use social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your work and reach potential clients.

Follow the rules:  It is important to follow all applicable laws and regulations when operating a drone for commercial purposes. This includes obtaining the necessary permissions and approvals for flights, maintaining a safe distance from people and property, and respecting privacy rights.

Starting a drone photography business in the USA requires hard work, creativity, and business savvy. By following these steps and staying up-to-date on the latest regulations and industry trends, you can build a successful and fulfilling career as a drone photographer.

Is There A Market For Drone Photography?

There is a growing market for drone photography services in various industries. According to factmr , drone photography services have an estimated market value of $617.6 million, which is expected to grow to over $3 billion by 2033. Drones are used for various applications, including real estate photography, construction site monitoring, event coverage, and wildlife photography. Many businesses and individuals are willing to pay for professional drone photography services due to the unique perspective and capabilities that drones offer.

As the use of drones in various industries continues to increase, the demand for qualified drone pilots is likely to grow.

That being said, the drone photography market is still relatively new and competitive. It is important to carefully research the market and target a specific niche to stand out and attract clients. Marketing and promoting your business effectively will also be crucial to finding success in the drone photography industry.

How Much Can You Earn As A Drone Photographer?

As with any business, the income potential for a drone photographer will depend on many factors, including your skills, experience, location, and the demand for your services. Some drone photographers may be able to earn a full-time income from their business, while others may only work part-time or on a project-by-project basis.

There is no set fee for drone photography services, and rates can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the project and the client’s budget and location. Some drone photographers charge an hourly rate, while others charge a flat fee for a specific project.

According to Droners.io , a popular website where freelance drone pilots offer their services, the average hourly rate for drone photography services in the United States is $150. According to salary.com and glassdoor.com , the average salary for a drone pilot is around $80,000. You can use these figures as a baseline for what you should be charging for your drone photography services.

However, these rates and figures can vary significantly depending on the location, the type of work done, and the photographer’s experience level. Depending on their skills and reputation, some drone photographers may charge much more or much less than this average.

It is important to carefully research the market and set your rates based on the value you provide to your clients and the going rates in your area. You should start with competitive rates and gradually increase them as you gain experience and build a portfolio.

What Is The Best Drone For Photography?

When choosing a drone for your photography business, assuming you do not already have one, you are spoilt for choice. Plenty of drones on the market are suitable for professional drone photography . My favourite are the DJI Mini 3 Pro and the DJI Air 2S ; both drones have fantastic cameras and a range of advanced features that make them great drone photography.

However, there are many options for you, even some of the older DJI drones that are no longer in production, like the DJI Phantom drones or original Mavic Pro and its successors, the Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom are suitable for drone photography. These older models can be found on sites like Amazon and eBay and maybe more budget-friendly than the newer models.

If you have never operated a drone, you may consider purchasing a cheap drone to practice and hone your flying skills. However, it should be noted that most high-end consumer drones are very easy to operate and come with safety features that minimise the risk of accidents, so it is not necessary to purchase a cheap model first.

Final Thoughts

Starting a drone photography business can be rewarding if you are willing to invest time and effort. Starting a small business is tough, but with the right attitude and a comprehensive plan, you will give yourself a better chance at success. If you want to make money with a drone , I believe starting a drone photography business is one of the best ways to achieve this goal.

About The Author

Michael Tripac

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Drone Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Drone Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their drone companies. 

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a drone business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a drone business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Drone Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your drone business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Drone Business

If you’re looking to start a drone business or grow your existing drone company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your drone business to improve your chances of success. Your drone business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Drone Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a drone business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan (hand it to them in person or email to them as a PDF file) and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for drone companies.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a drone business.

If you want to start a drone business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide and sample below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your drone business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of drone business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a drone business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of drone businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. 

• Give a brief overv iew of the drone industry. 
• Discuss the type of drone business you are operating. 
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. 
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team. 
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of drone business you are operating.

For example, you m ight specialize in one of the following types of drone businesses:

• Drone photography: specializing in photographs of nature, scenic areas, and hard-to-reach places, drone photography services create high-resolution images.
• Drone real estate videography: High-end homes use drone real estate photography to assist in demonstrating the superior value of the home and grounds.
• Drone security: Businesses and private home owners utilize drone security as an extra measure of protection, particularly those with properties containing several acres.
• Drone building inspections: Specialized building projects, such as underwater, high towers, or hard-to-reach areas require drone coverage to inspect and certify work.

In addition to explaining the type of drone business you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of high-end homes served, your on-going contracts with clients, or the multiple locations you serve.
• Your legal business structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the drone industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the drone industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating. 

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your drone business plan:

• How big is the drone industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your drone business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your drone business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, families, business entities.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of drone business you operate. Clearly, individuals would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers. Ideally you can speak with a sample of your target customers before writing your plan to better understand their needs.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are othe r drone businesses. 

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes real estate companies, building inspectors, and wedding photographers. You need to mention direct competition, as well.

For each direct competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of drone business are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide customized online videography services?
• Will you offer 24/7 protective drone security that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a drone business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type o f drone company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you video large acreage areas for farm and ranch owners? Will you provide drone services in out-of-reach areas for drone inspections? Will you offer referral rewards for those who bring other clients to you?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of yo ur plan, yo u are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your drone company. Document where your company is situated. Identify the breadth of your traveling capabilities (county-wide? state-wide?) for drone video or photography projects. For example, can you take photos of a skyscraper rooftop area? Will you provide 24/7 security for a large property owner? Discuss how your services might be the ideal answer for your customers and their needs.

Promotions : The final part of your drone marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites 
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your drone business, including answering calls, planning and providing drone services, invoicing and paying bills, etc. 

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to book your Xth client, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to secure a long-term state government contract for drone services.

Management Team

To demonstrate your drone business’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company. 

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing drone businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a drone business or successfully running a photography or videography business.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance s heet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you book drone service requests at least twice per day, or extend your drone business to new locations ? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your drone business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt. 

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a drone business:

• Cost of drone equipment, drone maintenance and office supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your real estate drone contract with a new realtor or a list of corporate clients who use your drone for security services. 

Writing a business plan for your drone business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the drone industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful drone business.

Drone Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my drone business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your drone business plan.

How Do You Start a Drone Business?

Starting a drone business is easy with these 14 steps:

• Choose the Name for Your Drone Business
• Create Your Drone Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Drone Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Drone Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Drone Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Drone Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Drone Business Equipment
• Develop Your Drone Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Drone Business
• Open for Business

Where Can I Download a Free Business Plan Template PDF?

Click here to download the pdf version of our basic business plan template.

Our free business plan template pdf allows you to see the key sections to complete in your plan and the key questions that each must answer. The business plan pdf will definitely get you started in the right direction.

We do offer a premium version of our business plan template. Click here to learn more about it. The premium version includes numerous features allowing you to quickly and easily create a professional business plan. Its most touted feature is its financial projections template which allows you to simply enter your estimated sales and growth rates, and it automatically calculates your complete five-year financial projections including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Here’s the link to our Ultimate Business Plan Template.

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How to Start a Drone Business: The Ultimate Guide

All trends have the power to turn into super trends — and drones have managed to do just that in an incredibly short space of time.

They started out as a bit of kit for tech-nuts to play around with but have quickly become far more than that. When drones first arrived, no one imagined they’d have such a dramatic impact on our lives. But they have.

But how do you get started? That’s a good question and one that we’re going to help you with right now! While a lot of it is the same as beginning any other type of business, there are extra steps you have to take.

How to Start a Drone Business

Step one: get the certificate.

There are approximately 700 FAA-approved test centers across the United States of America where you can sit the Part 107 examination. In other words, the test you need to pass to obtain the required certificate!

When looking to get through this qualification, you should enroll in the Drone Pilot Ground School . It’s an online course you can do in the comfort of your own home that will prepare you for the exam. You get an eye-popping 70-lesson suite that covers all the topics including:

Step Two: Consider The Best Type of Drone Business For You

We understand that this seems rather extensive — to tell you the truth, it is. However, anything that’s worth doing isn’t going to be easy. So, we’ll go over 10 of the most popular drone business ideas right now.

1. Drone Photography Business

2. agriculture inspection business.

Yup, we know this isn’t what typically comes to mind when you think of starting a drone business. However, it is a rather lucrative industry. How? Because we’re always going to need the services of our agriculture sector.

Ever since drones stepped their game up, they’ve been revolutionizing the lives of many farmers. Let us explain how. These low-cost aviators can seamlessly survey crops by using specialist sensors that allow the farmer to acquire valuable information. This data includes statistics on the following:

Accurate measurements let the farmers do the best possible job by telling them when they should fertilize, irrigate, and control pests.

Plus, drones can be flown whenever they’re needed. Some farmers may want to take hourly measurements, while others will be fine with weekly updates.

In time, you’ll be running a pretty well-paying ordeal!

3. Mapping Business

More frequently, we’ve seen land surveyors wanting to utilize drones to gather supremely accurate digital survey information. You could argue, that this is slightly similar to the agriculture inspection drone business idea we just suggested. However, you’ll be looking at very different factors.

Surveyors can gather their data easily from the air, rather than having to rely on comparatively slow ground vehicles to do their analysis.

You will then use your drone to gather 3D cartographic data. The accuracy is astounding. Seriously, it has leeway of a mere 1 centimeter!

Starting this type of business could land you in all sorts of industries, including:

4. Small Business Delivery Service

To be effective, you ideally need a whole army of drones. However, when you’re just starting out, you might not want to invest all of that cash (completely understandable. You could try asking one business in your town or city, whether they would like to try your services before diving into the deep end with loads of drones.

Don’t be discouraged if not every business owner says yes. You’ll get there, we believe in you.

5. Real Estate Drone Business

The real estate sector is a fledgling opportunity for you as a potential drone business. You could be making video tours of fancy apartments in New York or quaint log cabins in Georgia. The world is pretty much your oyster here.

6. Aerial Security Surveillance Business

Drones have the power to discreetly record home invasions, armed robberies, and more while sending notifications to a smartphone. How amazing would it be to bring that feeling of safety and contentment to homeowners and retail managers?

Alongside all of this, your drone can let their host know when things such as floods or fires are imminent by assessing cracks or leaks. Needless to say, people will pay a pretty high price if they’re looking to protect their loved ones or their business!

7. Underwater Inspection Business

It isn’t just taking pictures though. You could be involved in the following:

8. Drone Customization and Repair Business

What do we mean by customization? Well, it could be anything from new paint jobs to applying vinyl stickers with the owner’s name on. The only limit is your creativity and imagination!

9. Drone Course Provider Business

10. drone advertising and marketing business.

You might want to go down the warehouse inventory route. In this case, you will be supplying drones that gather intelligent data about stock, space, and plenty of other variables. This allows shop managers to effectively monitor their back end while continuing to provide substantial support on the shop floor.

Step Three: Consider The Target Market and Competition

Step four: write a business plan, step five: acquire the necessary business licenses and insurance.

Regardless of the business type, there will be certain licenses and insurance you need to obtain. Since you’re starting a drone-based enterprise, there are arguably far more certificates you need to acquire here.

Step Six: Check The Current Drone Regulations

You may also like, how to calibrate a drone: a beginner’s guide, swift stream z-9 drone review, best vr drones of 2020: complete reviews, leave a comment cancel reply.

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Best Drone Business Ideas for 2022

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Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

If you’re looking to start a business, then working with drones might be a venture to consider. After all, drone sales are expected to surpass $12 million in 2021. These unmanned aerial vehicles are attracting more consumers with their striking features, including high-quality cameras that capture pictures and video, built-in GPS, auto-pilot functions, flight speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour, Bluetooth capability, and more.

Demand for drones is increasing, making them more accessible to consumers. You can belong to a small but growing group of people with the knowledge to operate an innovative piece of technology. If you’re willing to do some research and create a plan, you can monetize your drone expertise.

Here are some drone business ideas to inspire your next business opportunity.

1. Photography

Before drones, you’d need to rent a helicopter to capture a bird’s eye view of the landscape with your camera. With drones, you can skip the expensive helicopter ride and snap a detailed picture—all with your feet planted safely on the ground.

But you don’t need to limit your photo subjects to lush landscapes. With drone-enabled photography, you can also capture photos of:

Sporting events

Special events

Footage for film and video

Real estate

2. Videography

Don’t limit your drone to capturing single moments. You can also create awe-inspiring videos from your eye in the sky. If you create videos for businesses, you can use your drone to capture stunning visuals that will leave their viewers breathless.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

3. Wedding videography and photography

Weddings deserve their own section because couples will shell out the money for amazing shots. On wedding photography alone, couples spend $2,000 on average. After all, this is a moment in their lives they want to preserve forever.

If you’re a wedding photographer, consider adding a drone to your toolkit. Drones lend a unique selling point to your business that differentiates you from your competition. With drones, you can snap amazing photos and videos from exciting angles that will impress your clients.

4. Building inspections

Inspecting a building poses several safety hazards, especially if you’re working with a 2,000-foot-tall skyscraper. If you own a building inspection business, this naturally puts you and your employees at risk of injury.

Reduce that risk by using drones to help with your inspection. You can train your employees to operate drones and how to detect issues through their high-quality cameras This can be helpful when you need to access large or difficult-to-access structures, like:

Power lines

Solar panels

5. Search and rescue

Imagine somebody getting lost in a forest during the evening. Sending a search party with only flashlights to scout the area can be time-consuming. This method also exposes the search parties to certain risks while traversing in the dark.

A drone can be a more efficient solution for searching and rescuing lost parties. Some drone models have infrared and night-vision cameras, making it easier to track the lost party using their heat emissions.

You can even program a drone to deliver emergency supplies and a message to sit tight because help is on the way.

6. Security surveillance

Home security solutions sales generated $4.69 billion in 2017. This figure indicates that there is a market that you can tap into: People who want to secure their homes and their businesses. With the rise of smart home technology, you might notice more homes equipped with cameras outside their homes or even built into their doorbells.

Drones add another layer of security to your home or business. Drones with night-vision cameras create a live feed you can view either during the day or evening. You can also set drones to hover closer to the ground, enabling it to capture a mugshot during an intrusion or burglary.

7. Agricultural surveys

Drones can be an exciting way to merge technology with agriculture. Save time that would be spent wading through the fields and use drones to survey crops from the sky. You can equip your drones with sensors that allow you to study soil hydration, its composition, and any invasions from pests and fungi. Moreover, drones make it possible to survey agriculture on a monthly or even daily basis.

8. Underwater inspections

Drones aren’t limited to just an eye in the sky. Drones also enable vision in the depths of the oceans. With submersible drones, you can dive 100 meters deep and see your aquatic surroundings with lighting and high-resolution images.

Companies like So Far Ocean, sell submersible drones for a spectrum of uses, both commercial and recreational.

This technology allows you to:

Monitor aquatic ecosystems

Collect data in remote ocean locations

Inspect underwater infrastructure, like tanks and pipes

Scout potential sites for recreational divers

Measure wave and wind conditions

Scout ahead for rich fishing sites

9. Marine photography

Many consumers link drones with gorgeous landscape photography. But the last business idea showed how drones can both fly in the sky and dive into the ocean. Imagine capturing the beauty of an aquatic landscape with your drone. Drone photography can take amazing photos and videos of vibrant coral reefs or mysterious seaweed forests.

If you’re a photographer looking for a new niche to tap into, then marine photography with drones might be your next calling.

10. Mapping and surveying

Instead of mapping an area on foot, land surveyors can use drones to collect data from the air. Drones equipped with GPS can produce three-dimensional cartographic visuals. This can cut the time and costs of creating maps and land surveys. If this is a business idea that sounds interesting, you can use this technology to branch out into:

Construction

Urban planning

Archaeology

Underwater mapping

11. Create an online drone course

You can find an online course for nearly anything. If you want to learn how to write a business plan or even how to grow succulents, you’ll definitely find an online course to teach you.

With the pool of drone owners growing, you’ll also find larger groups of drone beginners. You can create an online course that teaches those beginners how to operate their drones. Drone education is a great way to monetize your own drone expertise.

This is a great business idea where you can make money without a huge time investment. After you build the course, you set up automatic systems that convert leads, collect payment, and direct customers through your course.

12. Drone repairs

Despite their many capabilities, drones are still fragile tools prone to damage or failure. Despite the prices decreasing, drones are still expensive. Most consumers would rather repair an existing drone than shell out the money and buy a new one off the shelf.

Whether broken from a collision or malfunctioning from weather exposure, drone owners need some way to repair it. Opening a drone repair shop can fulfill this market need. This business idea can be attractive to people who love building things and understanding how they work.

13. Custom activations for events

Companies like Drone Cast are using their drones to create highlight moments for their clients’ events. Imagine attending a party and seeing a drone fly in with bags of party favors. Or maybe you’re hosting a party and you schedule for a drone to deliver bottles of wine.

If you’re an event planner or own a venue, you can use drone delivers as a unique selling point to attract new customers.

14. Drone banner advertising

If drones can carry bottles and party favors, why not use them to create ad space?

On the ground, your vision is flooded with highway billboards and store signs. But if you look up, you’ll see mostly sky and clouds. You can use a drone to carry a banner for advertising materials with the sky as a backdrop.

15. Emergency situations

During emergencies, like wildfires or earthquakes, drones can be operated by our first responders to mitigate the risk they’re exposed to. Sending a drone in advance to an emergency site can help our policemen and firemen assess the situation before rushing in to respond.

For reporters, it can often be too hazardous to report directly on-site. While the drone collects live footage to fill in the visuals, reporters can safely report the facts from a distance. Overall, drones fulfill several roles that would otherwise risk human lives.

16. Drone leasing business

If you have the capital or intend to apply for a business loan, you can purchase several drones to rent out. Many people don’t want to burden themselves with the financial investment of buying, maintaining, and repairing a drone. Some only want to use drones for a certain project or event and then return it. You might find that simply owning and leasing drones can be a lucrative business opportunity.

Drone tips for commercial use

Of course, using drones for business purposes—and not just for fun—means you need to take some extra steps to insure your investment. Here are some considerations to keep in mind.

Consider drone insurance

Drones are becoming more affordable as demand increases, but the average cost of a drone is roughly $280. This equipment can still be a financial investment for some. It might be worth purchasing insurance. Drones are fragile tools if not cared for responsibly and you want to ensure that you’re covered when your drone fails or breaks.

Moreover, drones expose you to some liability issues. If your drone runs into a piece of property or inflicts accidental injury on a person, you open yourself to potential lawsuits. Make sure that you’re protected during these unfortunate situations.

Drone permits

If you’re operating a drone commercially, you must register for the certain permits before opening your business. Make sure that you do your research and that you’re complying with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

For example, if you’re operating a drone less than 55 pounds, you must become an FAA-certified drone pilot and register your drone with the FAA.

Start Your Dream Business

The bottom line

The growing demand for drones marks an exciting milestone in this age of technology. Drones are innovating familiar industries, like photography, inspections, and security. As technology evolves and industries shift, so too must businesses. Learning how to operate drones and how to monetize that skill is a new yet exciting territory to explore.

But it may be beneficial to start your drone business sooner rather than later. With lower prices, drones are more accessible but the number of drone owners hasn’t exploded yet. Take advantage of this emerging market by establishing yourself early.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

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We all have friends who love to take pictures and capture the best scenes, moments and beauty of nature. Then we have friends or people we know who do it for a living. Some of them have been successful, others not so much and still others have failed to even make an impact. So if we were to take ten year’s worth of inventory of all the names of photographers that we know who owned simple photography businesses, most of them would have moved on to another venture, took a long break, or left the scene altogether. You may also see photography plan templates .

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Navigating through darkness: Ukraine’s emergency blackouts return after Russia pounds infrastructure

A barman is seen working through the window of a coffee shop during power cuts in Kyiv, Ukraine, Friday, June 7, 2024. Ukraine, including Kyiv, is struggling to cope with a new wave of rolling blackouts after relentless Russian attacks took out half the country’s power generation capacity. (AP Photo/Alex Babenko)

People walk along a road during a blackout in central Kyiv, Ukraine, Thursday, June 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Alex Babenko)

A man looks for a backpack in an outdoor equipment store during blackouts in Kyiv, Ukraine, Friday, June 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Alex Babenko)

Kateryna Barannyk, 30, a sales consultant of the outdoor equipment store “Gorgany” poses for the portrait during a blackout in Kyiv, Ukraine, Friday, June 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Alex Babenko)

A barman speaks with clients at a coffee shop during power cuts in Kyiv, Ukraine, Friday, June 7, 2024. Ukraine, including Kyiv, is struggling to cope with a new wave of rolling blackouts after relentless Russian attacks took out half the country’s power generation capacity. (AP Photo/Alex Babenko)

Friends sit in a coffee shop during a blackout in Kyiv, Ukraine, Friday, June 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Alex Babenko)

Oleksandr Solovei, 25, the owner of the coffee shop Informatyka, poses for the portrait during a blackout in Kyiv, Ukraine, Friday, June 7, 2024. Solovei plans to buy a generator, which typically costs around $1,000, to keep his business open during blackouts. (AP Photo/Alex Babenko)

A man is working on his laptop at a coffee shop, which operates during blackouts in Kyiv, Ukraine, Friday, June 7, 2024. Ukraine is experiencing rolling blackouts as Russia intensified strikes targeting energy infrastructure over the past three months. (AP Photo/Alex Babenko)

A general view of the central district of the city is seen during a blackout in Kyiv, Ukraine, Friday, June 7, 2024 (AP Photo/Alex Babenko)

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KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — During daytime, entire districts of Ukraine’s capital are disconnected from the power grid to save energy. Traffic lights stop, choking traffic, accompanied by the constant rumble of generators installed outside cafes and shops.

Ukraine, including Kyiv, is struggling to cope with a new wave of rolling blackouts after relentless Russian attacks took out half the country’s power generation capacity.

Residents and businesses of Kyiv are adapting to the absence of electricity using generators, power banks, and flashlights and even recalculating their bathroom visits. Heavy damage inflicted to the country’s power system has left millions feeling uncertain about Ukraine’s ability to meet the national electricity demand after the warm weather months are over and the weather turns cold.

“I light my apartment as our grandparents used to — with candles and small flashlights,” said Rudoy, a 40-year-old insurance agent from Israel who relocated from Tel Aviv to Kyiv in 2023 after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.

He said that he wanted a new life despite the war — to live side-by-side with old friends and reside in a milder climate — but he hadn’t foreseen the inconveniences of living without power. Rudoy bought an apartment on the seventh floor of a newly built 25-story high rise with no gas system or water supply that’s wholly dependent on electricity.

“I have to adjust my life to the blackout schedules, otherwise it is impossible to live normally — not even to use a toilet at times,” Rudoy told The Associated Press.

A friend in a nearby district typically has power when he doesn’t, which makes his life easier. Work often gets done at a cafe that has a generator, but there’s a catch.

“Even if you find a free table at a cafe nearby, working generators are very noisy and spread diesel fumes,” he said. “That’s why not many cafes that operate during blackouts are actually good to work in.”

Ukraine is struggling to meet electricity demand as systematic attacks on its power infrastructure have intensified since March, forcing utilities to ration household supplies over the last three months. The country’s top officials repeatedly called on allied countries to provide more air defense systems to protect its power plants from Russian missiles and drones, but tangible damage had already been inflicted.

The blackouts in Kyiv are the worse since the early months of the war when Russian strikes on the country’s power grid led to major winter-time blackouts that led to authorities setting up communal heating areas and hundreds of emergency points where residents could drink tea, recharge their phones and get help.

“As of today, due to missile and drone attacks, we have lost 9.2 gigawatt of electricity (generating capabilities),” Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said in early June. Despite having the capacity to import 2.2 gigawatts of electricity from European countries, Ukraine is importing 1.7 gigawatts, Shmyhal said.

Apart from direct imports, Ukraine is working to attract foreign investment to its private energy sector. At a summit in Berlin this month, Ukraine presented investment projects that could enable additional capacity of 1 gigawatt, said Volodymyr Kudrytskyi, the head of power utility Ukrenergo.

But in the short-term, Ukraine’s readiness before next winter looks highly uncertain considering the damages to its energy system, the feasible outlook for reconstruction, and electricity demand.

Constant blackouts bring disruption to many city residents’ daily rituals. Official power outage schedules published regularly by Ukrainian energy operators make it easier to plan the day. But energy companies often resort to unscheduled emergency blackouts when the city overconsumes electricity at the peak hours.

The circumstances force businesses and households to rely on alternative sources of electricity and light to get through a day as the summer heat makes more and more people use air conditioners. And many are worried the situation could get even worse.

Small businesses don’t always keep up, with the energy situation rapidly changing every week.

Oleksandr Solovei, the 25-year-old owner of Informatyka coffee shop in Kyiv, just plans to buy a generator, which typically costs around $1,000, to keep his business open during blackouts.

In the meantime, he must improvise. “We prepare hot water in advance, to cook matcha and teas. Cooking coffee at times like this is impossible. The coffee machine consumes too much energy,” Solovei told the AP.

A fiber-optic internet cable and a power bank that keeps the router on attract patrons to Informatyka, where they can work on their laptops. Still, customers have thinned out since the blackouts began.

“We think the situation will get worse (by winter),” Solovei said. “We already plan to buy a generator, powerful enough to brew coffee, light the space, and charge the devices of our visitors. We are preparing for a hard winter.”

Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine