Today’s show is about marketing a new drone business.

Our caller for today, Ian is all of 16, and he just got his Part 107 license. Like most drone pilots, Ian wishes to start off with real estate before moving on to more complicated (and lucrative) jobs. But, he is finding himself discouraged by the intense competition. How can Ian make a dent in a marketplace dotted with older, far more experienced pilots? And how can he come up with a great and irresistible offer?

Drawing from their considerable experience, Rob and Paul share some nuanced tips to help Ian out. Among other things, you will learn how to leverage autonomous systems to massively scale up your business. You will also get some branding tips so that you can showcase your skills in the right way. Thanks for the great question, Ian. Fly Safe!

Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

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Timestamps

• [02:04]Our sponsor for today is our new sales class
• [05:37]Today’s question is about starting young and marketing a new drone business
• [07:02]How can you get people to trust you when you are young?
• [08:20]Coming up with your own unique mechanism to stand out in a crowded market space
• [11:03]How have some drone pilots drastically scaled up their business in the wake of covid?
• [12:05]How can you provide more value and greater convenience to your customers?
• [13:26]Two growth areas that you should be exploring right now
• [14:40]Marketing yourself the right way
• [16:40]Can you get more drone jobs if you fly FPV?
• [17:35]With the massive stimulus, is the construction industry set for a boom?
• [17:47]Creating autonomous systems for attaining massive scale
• [19:27]Check out our comprehensive Business Class for some detailed insights
• [21:08]Do you have a good website that showcases your skills?

Today’s show is about drone mapping software and acquisition strategies.

Our caller for today, Bob has come up with a great follow-up question today. Bob listened to our previous show, “Which Pix4D Version Should I Use for Mapping a Roof?” And he has some in-depth questions about mapping software and acquisition strategies.

Specifically, how can you prevent jagged lines in drone models? Can the use of manual tie-points help you create better-looking models? On today’s show, you will learn that your acquisition strategy is program-dependent. We discuss different mapping software like Drone Deploy, Pix4D Mapper, and Pix4D React. And reveal our preferred acquisition strategy for each software.

If you are a professional mapper looking to up your game, today’s show will be particularly interesting to you. Enjoy!

Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

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If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Timestamps

• [02:02]Today’s show is brought to you by PROPS and our Mapping Bootcamp
• [04:26]Today’s question is about creating lifelike and beautiful drone models
• [07:11]Is your acquisition method program-dependent?
• [07:47]What is the recommended acquisition strategy for Pix4D React?
• [09:42]Choosing the right processing template and how it impacts your map quality
• [12:10]Using MTP’s for combining data sets of two separate projects
• [14:20]Why aligning rather than merging datasets is preferable
• [15:15]Why consistent white balance is important for creating MTP’s
• [16:40]Are there any processing engines that do not require MTP’s?
• [18:40]Can you create an accurate 3D model using cloud-based software like DroneDeploy?

Today’s question is about free drone mapping software.

Our caller, Ken from NJ wants to get into drone mapping. And while he wants to improve his mapping skills, understandably, he does not want to spend hundreds of dollars after mapping software right now.

So, are there any free mapping software that Ken can use as a practice tool?

On today’s show, we discuss different options like Open Drone Map, Capture Reality, and even Pix4D and Drone Deploy. This show will be particularly useful for those who are contemplating getting into the lucrative mapping industry. Enjoy!  

Resources:

Drone Mapping Guide – https://learning.thedroneu.com/what-is-drone-mapping-software/?v=1

Free Drone Map – https://www.opendronemap.org/

Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Timestamps

• [02:10]Today’s show is brought to you by Drone U’s Mapping Bootcamp
• [03:22]Today’s question is about free mapping software
• [04:37]Drone U Recommended free mapping software to help you get started
• [05:47]What are the capabilities of Capture Reality’s free software?
• [06:34]Hone your mapping skills by getting a free two week trial with Pix4D Mapper or Drone Deploy
• [12:35]Watch out for our next show where we shall be talking about DJI’s FPV Drone

Today’s show is about the DJI Mavic Air 2. Can you build a long-term, profitable business with this entry-level DJI drone?

Our caller for today, John is a new drone pilot who has recently invested in the DJI Mavic Mini 2. John is facing buyer’s remorse as he feels that he should have gone for a more powerful, sophisticated drone instead.

While he was looking for a commercially viable option, he is worried that he has wasted his money after a “toy”. Has John made a wrong purchase? Can he carve out a place in the marketplace when there are other pilots flying more powerful drones like the Mavic 2 Pro, Phantom, and Inspire? 

Tune in to find out. Thanks for the great question, John. Fly Safe!

Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Timestamps

• [01:24]Toy or tool – how do you treat your drone?
• [03:00]Is the DJI Mavic Mini 2 a good option for Part 107 pilots?
• [04:13]Today’s show is made to you by our newest drone program, PROPS
• [06:15]Today’s question is about the DJI Mavic Air 2?
• [08:35]Can you build a profitable drone business with great skills but an inferior drone?
• [09:09]Is the DJI Mavic Air 2 a good drone for shooting real estate videos?
• [10:06]Mavic 2 Pro vs. Mavic 2 Air – how do they compare?
• [10:52]What are some of the disadvantages of owning entry-level DJI drones like the Mavic Air 2 or Mavic Mini 2?
• [11:50]Can you shoot smooth cinematic shots with an entry-level drone?
• [12:41]So, is the DJI Mavic Air 2 a commercially viable drone?
• [14:10]Why Paul still swears by the Phantom 4 Pro
• [16:07]Can you build your business with just an iPhone and Osmo?

Today we compare different drone mapping software and reveal the most accurate option so that you can avoid any legal liabilities.

Our caller for Trav is from Australia and has a question about drone mapping. And specifically, drone mapping software. Trav wants to know which processing software can produce the most accurate drone maps so that he avoid any legal liabilities.

Great question, Trav. This question is particularly relevant to drone uses like surveying. More and more drone pilots are getting into trouble with Surveying Boards when they don’t follow the right systems and workflows.

On today’s show, while we recommend the best mapping software option for Trav, we also reveal some best practices so that you can avoid human error, inaccuracies, and the ensuing legal liabilities. Thanks for the great question. Fly Safe!

Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Timestamps

• [01:28]How will DJI’s new FPV drone impact the drone industry as a whole?
• [04:39]Following the right systems and workflows for avoiding legal liabilities
• [07:33]Today’s question is about drone mapping accuracy
• [10:47]Accurate drone maps are a function of mapping engines and human skills
• [12:25]The correct way to mark a GCP
• [15:00]Understanding GSD
• [17:36]As per statistical research, which is the most accurate processing engine
• [20:09]Why it is imperative to zoom in when marking GCP’s
• [21:06]Understanding ellipsoid error and how to minimize it
• [23:10]Which is the most popular point cloud constructor?
• [23:10]Is Drone Deploy more accurate than Pix4D when it comes to building orthomosaics?
• [23:54]Pix4D Desktop vs. Pix4D Cloud – which is the best option for generating accurate drone maps?
• [24:39]Why are so many drone pilots getting into trouble with the Board of Surveyors?
• [31:55]Some more tips for generating accurate drone maps

Today’s show is about flying at night without a waiver.

Our caller for today, Bob has called in with an extremely relevant question today. Bob’s question is about flying at night without a waiver. With daylight waiver to fly at night all set to become history, is there any benefit to applying for a Wide Area Authorization? Additionally, he is also wondering about the procedure to fly in controlled airspace near an airport that is not LAANC-enabled.

With the recent changes to Part 107, drone pilots shall soon be able to fly without a waiver. On today’s show, you will receive some latest information and expert tips so that you can legally fly at night without a waiver.

Part 107 pilots will also get some great value from the latter half of the show where Paul reveals how you can capture data in a zero grid area even when you don’t have the necessary permission to fly.

We also discuss if it is possible for pilots to get the necessary flight permissions and operate profitable drone businesses in cities like Las Vegas and New York. Thanks for the great question, Bob. Fly Safe!

Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Timestamps

• [03:07]Today’s show is brought to you by our Mini Landing Pads and our all-new PROPS Flight School
• [08:57]Today’s question is about flying at night without a waiver
• [10:53]How to get Wide Area Authorization in LAANC-enabled airports
• [12:09]New Part 107 Drone Rule changes eliminating night-time waivers
• [12:55]Expert tips to help you get your night-time waiver approved
• [15:29]Controlled airspace leading to non-compliance and illegal flights in Vegas
• [18:33]Getting the necessary flight permissions by building relationships with the ATC
• [22:10]Can you get permission to fly in a zero grid area?
• [23:13]Hacks to legally capture data in a zero grid area even if you don’t get the necessary permissions to fly
• [24:47]Holding the FAA accountable – With airspace approvals being so difficult, what can drone pilots possibly do?

Today’s question is about the upcoming changes to the Part 107 test. Will it be harder for you to clear the new and updated test?

Our caller for today, Bob has come up with a particularly relevant question today. The Part 107 test is all set for a revamp in March. And rather than being one of the first people to attempt the new and updated test, you are certainly better off giving the test right now. You will learn about some of the most important changes to the Part 107 test.

Particularly, you will learn how you shall soon be able to fly at night without a waiver. Enjoy!

Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Timestamps

• [01:00]Today’s show is brought to you our new flight school, PROPS
• [04:02]Topic for today’s show is your Part 107 certificate and night time operations
• [05:00]How the Part 107 test is changing in March
• [05:58]Why NOW is the time to take your Part 107 test
• [06:50]How to fly at night without a waiver
• [11:03]Part 107 tips to help you out
• [11:55]Paying too much for your drone education?
• [13:42]Which state has the largest no-fly zone in the United States?

Today’s show is about mapping entire towns with drones. Is this a cost-feasible and legally permissible option?

Our caller for today, Ryan from Utah wishes to survey an entire town with a drone. Legally speaking, is this even a possibility? Can Ryan get the necessary permissions to fly over people and BVLOS if required?

On today’s show, we share how Ryan can legally map large swathes of land without filing a waiver at all. We also compare mapping with drones to mapping from planes and reveal if the former can produce more detailed, more accurate maps. Enjoy!

Check out our comprehensive drone mapping guide – https://learning.thedroneu.com/what-is-drone-mapping-software/?v=1

Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Timestamps

• [01:43]Today’s question is about mapping an entire town with a drone
• [02:43]Mapping with drones vs. Mapping from planes – which is the more affordable option if you are dealing with large tracts of land?
• [03:23]The new Phase One camera allows you to shoot obliques at 150 MP!
• [04:34]Can you create more detailed maps with a drone?
• [04:50]Flying over people without a waiver
• [06:04]How to map large swathes of land in one go
• [06:30]Can Ryan legally fly this job without a waiver?
• [09:29]Tips for filing a waiver
• [11:02]Does the right drone make it easier for Ryan to legally fly this job?
• [13:10]How can Drone U’s new PROPS program help out Ryan?

Today’s show is about running an LLC alongside flying a drone for your W-2 employer.

Our caller for today, Adam flies drones as a part of his W-2 job profile. Additionally, he recently started his LLC. Adam is using his personal drone to fly jobs for his LLC and his employer. For accounting and insurance purposes, it is a must that Adam keep the flight data for his business separate. But, given that he is using the same drone, how can Adam do so?

Being a drone entrepreneur himself, Paul also has some sage career advice for Adam. Also, towards the end, we discuss if Adam can/should convince his boss to hire his drone business LLC. Thanks for the great question, Adam. Fly Safe!

Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.

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Timestamps

• [02:42]Today’s question is about flying drones for your LLC and W-2 employer
• [03:50]Why is it necessary to keep your flight data separate?
• [06:30]How separate flight data can help Adam from an insurance and maintenance perspective; what is the best way to keep this data separate
• [13:53]Logging data in a physical log book
• [14:32]Should Adam convince his boss to hire his LLC?
• [25:40]Is it better for Adam to quit his W-2 job to focus full time on his LLC?
• [27:38]What should Adam do if his boss refuses to entertain his offer?

Today’s show is about drone mapping software. Which is the best and most capable software to map a roof?

Our caller for today, Garrett from Ohio is confused with the myriad of mapping software out there. He plans on taking up a roof mapping job and is considering using Pix4D. But, should Garrett opt for Pix4DMapper or Pix4D Cloud? Apart from Pix4D, we also discuss other options like DroneDeploy, Eagleview, and the latest entrant in the market, Skydio 3D Scan.

You will also learn how your final deliverable and acquisition strategy impacts the choice of your mapping software. And we also share some great resources to help you out. Enjoy!

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Check out our comprehensive drone mapping guide – https://learning.thedroneu.com/what-is-drone-mapping-software/?v=1

Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community.

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YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Timestamps

• [02:05]Our sponsor for today’s show is Drone U’s Virtual Mapping Class
• [02:20]Today’s question is about Pix4D
• [04:40]Is there any major difference between a mapping job and an inspection job?
• [07:10]Check out our comprehensive drone mapping guide
• [07:30]How your final deliverable and workflow impacts your choice of mapping software
• [08:15]DroneDeploy, Eagleview or Pix4D – which is the best drone mapping software for you?
• [12:40]Is Skydio’s mapping software a good option for mapping and modeling?
• [15:10]Why Pix4DMapper is the best option for Garrett
• [16:33]What are some of the biggest disadvantages of Pix4DCloud?
• [17:40]Determining your data acquisition strategy