This is a cool interview!
Chad Halvorsen's drone tips--
Droning Do’s:
Droning Don’ts
Chad Halvorsen's drone tips--
Droning Do’s:
- Before you guarantee any client that you can fly somewhere, you have to make sure you can apply for authorization. A lot of times, I’ll get requests to fly somewhere day-of shooting, and the client will ask for a location that requires permission from a local airport. It’s easier now, than it was 4 years ago, to request permission. A lot of times, it can be done with an app, and you can get authorization in seconds. If the airport in question doesn’t work with the app, you have to actually call the tower, and request permission. Which is way harder, and you have to speak “pilot.”
- Always check your gear the night before flying. Firmware/zone updates, they can slow you down if you’re on set and have a time crunch. Also check for loose parts and make sure the aircraft is airworthy.
- Be on your best behavior. Most people are interested in what you’re doing. If someone becomes hostile in tone, or gives you grief about what you’re doing, just explain the process. You’re within your legal right to fly in any airspace that is available to you. Most drone lenses are super wide, so the expectation that your drone can peer into a window from 100 ft, is nonsense. It’s easier to cool down a situation by just being honest. What you’re doing, what’s it for, and you’ll be out of their hair soon.
Droning Don’ts
- Don’t be stupid. Fly safe within part 107 compliance. Again, a drone can do serious damage. It’s a machine, treat it with the respect it deserves.
- You don’t have to get every shot. If your client is barking down your neck, and wants a shot that may cause damage to you/others/your drone, you can say “no.” You’re the one who is licensed to fly, not them. If they ask you to do something illegal, or in that gray area, you can also say, “no.” Your client is not the pilot in command, you are.
- Don’t let others crowd you while in flight. People will ask questions, or make comments. It can be nerving. If you’re being hassled, in simple terms, say, “hey, I’m flying here. Can this wait?” If it can’t, land the craft, and talk. There’s no reason to be shouting a flight plan mid-flight. Those details should be ironed out before you turn the drone on.
