Have you ever flown a drone for recreational purposes or watched footage captured by drones and wondered about possible ways to make money with one? Perhaps you want to make a few extra dollars or are looking to work in the field full time. Well, the good news is there are ways to cash in, and you can make a pretty good living at it, too. Drones have an important role in the marketplace.
In this article, we will touch on how to make money with a drone, what costs are involved with the use of a drone, and how to transport your valuable equipment safely between destinations.
A Day in the Life of a Drone Pilot
Professional drone pilots are most often freelancers, working whenever the need arises. Hours spent filming per day will vary. The use of drones for filming or photography may be required during sunrise, sunset, or midday when the sun casts the fewest shadows. Filming can even be done at night if necessary.
Since the jobs are site-specific, drone pilots spend a fair amount of time on the road or in the air to a client’s location. It can include destinations down the street or around the world.
Since nature is center stage in drone work, conditions may be perfect one day or windy and overcast the next, which means you may need to get comfortable to capture the right moment. That means being prepared with the right clothing and gear to protect you and your equipment. But being outdoors is also a big perk of the job. You can enjoy some fresh air and get paid while doing it.
Additional time will be needed in a secure location to edit footage or retouch photos before sending them to your client. The good news is this phase of the job can be done from the comfort of your own home.
Can You Really Make Money with a Drone?
Absolutely. As a drone pilot, you can sell your images on Adobe Images Getty Images, and you can do work for special events such as concerts and weddings, but even bigger (and higher paying) jobs come from other business segments, such as:
Real Estate companies selling homes, land, and high-rises and wanting to provide a bird’s eye view of the properties.
Developers of large home or business developments.
Security firms needing surveillance assistance to guard against intrusions.
Advertising and marketing agencies filming commercials or Instagram shoots for products and services.
Agriculture work where farmers use drones for precision harvesting.
How Much Money Does a Drone Pilot Get Paid?
If you plan to fly a drone for money, your income will depend on a few factors. Most pilots work as freelancers and set their own hours, which means the more they work, the more they make. But it also varies depending on the training. In some cases, they can make very good money in a specialized field. If they offer thermography as a service, they can make $200,000 a year if fully certified.
On average, a pilot makes between $25 on the low end and $75 an hour on the high end. You’ll be working hard to reach those higher amounts, but they are possible.
The Costs of Starting a Drone Business
Being a drone pilot is actually a more serious endeavor than it sounds. There are rules you will need to follow, and one requirement is to have a drone license. The FAA may fine you $1,100 for selling pictures or videos without a license.
A license costs about $150. To get one, you will need to be at least 16 years of age and registered with the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (ICARA). Tests often take place at local airports or flying clubs.
Some other requirements are:
Insurance. You can get it from professional drone companies like AIG, Agion, or Verifly, and it comes available for long-term or individual shoots — even hourly shoots.
Under certain conditions, like flying over people or during the night, you will need a waiver from the FAA. The cost runs about $108.
A drone with video and photo capabilities will be required. There are a wide range of drones on the market, and pricing can vary, but a quality drone can range from $800 to $5,000.
If your drone weighs 55 lbs. or less, you will need to register your drone with the FAA. It costs around $5, and you will need to renew it every three years. If your drone weighs over 55 lbs., you will need to get a 333 Exemption, which can be tricky to get since they are much like having a pilot’s license.
Photo and video editing software is needed to clean up imagery after your session.
A quality bag to transport your drone and additional equipment.
Buying the Right Drone Bag
Being a drone pilot means traveling to locations that need filming or photographing. You will be in a car, plane, train, or even boat, and spend time in hotels and airport lobbies. Drones can be fragile, heavy, and cumbersome, and with the price of professional drones ranging well over $800, you’ll want strong protection. Having the right bag will make a huge difference for safe and secure traveling while helping you organize your gear and travel more comfortably.
BrightLine Bags offers bags specifically designed for drone transport. You can purchase a foam set that fits a wide range of drone models. Numerous side and rear pockets help you keep your gear, and you, organized during the trip. And each bag comes with a wide handle along the top for easy carrying and removing from overhead compartments. With all items stored compactly, you also save room in storage and out of danger. The padded interior can even be removed if you prefer to use it as a standard bag. The company makes quality bags to carry your quality drone. To see their full line of drone bags, click here. (https://www.brightlinebags.com/uses/drone-bags)
You’re Ready!
Yes, your dream job as a drone pilot can be a reality. It can be a fun and fulfilling way to profit from what you love. Paying attention to the costs, requirements, and tools listed above ensures your career takes flight the best way possible.