Why Drones?

In 1977 I ventured off to film school to become the next Stanley Kubrick. Often regretting the choice to switch majors (to music), I swore I’d get back to “film” some day.

Here I am in the next millennium, I have settled into falling in love with all things digital:  animation, music, drawing, editing, creating just about anything you can possibly imagine!  It’s an exciting time to be a visual artist.  Where once it was cost prohibitive to create even a ten minute film, now you can literally have an entire studio in your home for about the same price as one year’s tuition to a mid level university.   So, why NOT drones? 

Drones are God’s gift to film makers!  Yeah, they sure do get a bad rap.  Wing nuts flying their drones near airports and sporting events, the stray perv shooting his next door neighbor.  I know, I know.  But for many of us, it is the manifestation of infinite possibilities!  How much would it cost to rent a helicopter for one hour to shoot some spectacular footage?  A good entry level drone will set you back about $1,500.  There are other costs and oh, yeah, there’s that pesky FAA certification.  Oh, but that is a VERY GOOD THING.  That’s what separates the commercial UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) pilots from the hobbyists.  Once you get your license you will find yourself in a heap o’ trouble should you decide to fly over the Grand Canyon, or near an airport–and not have clearance.  (If you want to do this, ya gotta get your Part 107 Pilot’s License).