Having just sold one of my cameras, I decided to get a drone.
It’s something I’ve thought about before but never pulled the trigger.
The different perspectives of images intrigues me, and I have a couple of trips planned where the potential for epic images is possible.
Learning
There was a lot to learn once the box arrived – lots of videos to watch. and questions to a fellow photography club member and recent drone pilot got me moving.
With reference to that advice, I have registered with the CAA to obtain my Operator ID and although not necessary for the drone I have, I have taken the (very straightforward) test and obtained my Flyer ID as well.
Alongside a lot of tutorial videos, I made sure I was prepped before heading out, and this included having some locations to hand where the Drone Assist app and website would ensure I am flying safely.
First Flight
I headed out to a field where I knew I could fly safely without any hindrance to anyone else.
I was anxious but followed the instructions and off we went – I was surprised at how nimble, fast and responsive the drone was, and was soon capturing video and stills.
Below is a capture from the drone of the patterns in the field.
Having got this done, I moved on and decided to stop at How Hill.
How Hill Drone and ‘Normal’ camera captures
I walked from the car park and along the river, past the two boats moored up and round the corner. It looked like an area of the ditch here was out of the way of the path, so I set down and prepared my flight.
I was very nervous of anyone walking past but had to shift the fear out of my brain. Off I went and I grabbed some video footage and some stills.
I am quite pleased with the shot below:
I landed safely and packed the drone away, and couldn’t resist grabbing some stills with my ‘normal’ camera.
One of the boats was departing so I quickly captured its approach as well as after it had gone past me.
With the boat gone, there was just one shot to take, and that was of the mill itself.
I had no filters with me so didn’t think to try a longer exposure.
With that, I declared to myself it was a wrap.
Thoughts post shoot
For my first use of the drone, I was pleased and hope to enjoy many more flights.
It’s very important to prepare properly and check your intended flight location(s) for safety and where you are not presenting any risks. I feel more comfortable when erring on the side of caution.
The drone came with me to the coast the following day but persistent rain and low cloud made photography of any sort not feasible.
Onwards and upwards…