Cover photo by Mori
Drone photography has been gaining popularity recently for its ability to easily capture dynamic aerial shots. However, it is important to know about the necessary equipment and permission procedures for flying drones.
This time, we introduce the basic knowledge and tips for drone photography that beginners should know.
Necessary Equipment and How to Choose
The necessary equipment for drone photography includes the drone itself, a camera, a transmitter (remote control), batteries, and a tablet device. The type of drone varies by weight and size, and drones weighing over 100g require registration under aviation law. For beginners, small and lightweight toy drones are easier to operate and a good way to start.
Choose a camera based on your purpose and the required image quality, such as 4K or Full HD. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras can capture beautiful footage, making them ideal for those who are particular about video production. Additionally, having spare batteries ensures you have enough shooting time. A wind speed meter is also useful to comply with flight restrictions due to wind speed.
Flight Permissions and Approval Procedures
When flying drones, permission from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism may be required. For flights under specific conditions (such as around airports or above 150m), night flights, or flights beyond visual line of sight, you must obtain flight permission through the "Drone Information Platform System (DIPS)" in advance. Flying without permission may result in penalties, so be sure to check the procedures according to the flight area and purpose.
There are also national qualifications for drone operation. Obtaining a first or second-class license can increase the freedom of flight, but it is possible to fly by applying for flight permission even without a license.
Tips for Drone Photography
To improve your drone photography skills, it is important to first get used to the basic operations. Practice moving forward and backward, and moving up, down, left, and right at eye level to stabilize the drone. Maintaining a constant speed during flight will result in smoother footage.
If you aim for cinematic expression, it is recommended to be creative with the drone's movements. By using modes that follow the subject or shoot while circling, you can capture powerful footage. These modes can be easily operated from dedicated apps, allowing even beginners to enjoy professional-level shooting.
Drone photography holds many possibilities, and with the right knowledge and preparation, you can enjoy even more attractive video production.
