Undoubtedly, drone use can be extremely beneficial to influencers, social media managers, and photographers alike. The ability to capture images from high angles and get a unique shot easily is something that many people once thought wasn’t possible for amateurs. But owning a drone has completely changed how people create and consume content across the world.

You only have to head online to easily find an abundance of drone shots from various sources to see the popularity not only with the artists who use them to create the content but also from the consumer.

YouTube’s chief commercial officer, Robert Kyncl, forecasted that video would account for 90 percent of all internet traffic by 2020, with expenditure on digital video ads expected to climb by 30 per cent between 2015 and 2016. Another interesting figure is that 70% of marketers want to boost their social media video ad budgets in 12 months.

If you are looking to buy a drone to up your photography game, boost your social media images, use it within the realms of your company or business or to simply just have fun with it, you need to know some important details before you purchase.

Where to Buy A Drone

This obviously depends on your location and the availability of retailers in your specific country. It is always a good idea to buy direct from a retailer such as DrDrone.ca.This way; you can ensure you are buying the latest version and have an outlet to buy the latest hardware or accessories as required.

Consider investing in a starter drone and kit to help you get used to using it at first. The last thing you want is to invest a hefty sum of money in a drone to have an accident and be unable to use it without being fully confident in your skills.

Choose a Compact Drone

Drones, much like anything else, can come in many different shapes and sizes. If you are going to be going out and about frequently, you need to invest in a lightweight and company drone that is easy to transport. It is likely when you head out with it you will have other equipment, too and choosing a bigger drone might mean you struggle to carry it where you need it or retrieve it in the event of an issue.

Drone Insurance

Like you would insure your mobile phone, you need to ensure your drone too. Make sure you check the restrictions, if any, regarding areas of usage for repair when using the drone. For example, if your provider limits you to the area you bought the drone for insurance, then damaging your drone outside of this area will void your policy. Make sure the cover you obtain applies to your needs.

Learn The Drone Flying Rules

When you first start using your drone, make sure you know all your locations regulations and laws about drone usage, especially if you plan to travel abroad and use your drone in a different country. 

Each country will have a page online dedicated to drone usage and what is acceptable. But for general advice, some rules can apply for pretty much most places and are a common courtesy for drone users, including;

• Stay 8km away from airports
• Fly under 400 feet from the ground
• Do not fly over government facilities 
• Do not fly over private properties and residential spaces
• Only fly in open areas
• Keep your drone in the one of sight

Register For Any Permits

Different countries have different requirements, and you cannot just buy a drone and take it out to fly. In the Philippines, commercial drone use requires a permit. An operator may not conduct aerial work activities unless they have a valid certificate of authority granted by the Authority.

Avoid falling foul of the law and register your intention to fly a drone, and get the appropriate paperwork to allow you to do so.

Buy Extra Supplies

It can be easy to overlook the extras you might need to use your drone effectively, especially if you bought on impulse. If you are using your drone commercially, you will probably find that you need to purchase supplies to help you prolong your usage when out and about and help you get the most from your new drone. Some packages may include some or all of the following.

Consider buying;

• Extra batteries
• Battery Charging pack
• Carry Case
• Memory Card
• Filters
• Spare propellers
• Propellor guards
• Landing gear
• Car charging kit

You Need To Install Software

You cannot open up your drone and use it. You need to set up the software for the drone, charge the batteries, install the propellers etc. Additionally, you will also need to add the software on your phone from the controller. You will also need to register your drone with the provider to get you up and running.

Practise Makes Perfect

Drone are fragile pieces of technology. When you consider the heights they are typically used at, if they were to come crashing down, it can cause a lot of damage.

These days, drones are super user friendly, and as such most people can pick up the skills pretty quickly. Remember to use your drone in a safe space and remember to follow the rules when practising your skills. Don’t push it too much too soon, and allow yourself to build up the confidence required for a successful drone flight.

Consider undergoing drone flight training to improve your skills and fly with other people, so more than one set of eyes are on the drone, and you can have support in keeping track of your drone until you become more confident.

There is no denying that a drone can be a handy tool for any industry. However, take the time to get to know your new piece of kit before using it and make sure you have the relevant permission and permits to take your drone out into the sky.