Today’s question is about the many benefits of becoming a Drone U member. We discuss the various Drone U resources that can help you master your craft, and start your drone business. And we provide some great Tips and Tricks for navigating through our expansive site.

Our caller, Tim just ordered his Phantom 4 V2. And understandably, he is excited and nervous at the same time. What are some of the first steps that will help ease Tim into the drone business? We discuss how practicing with the Syma can help Tim immensely. You will also learn about our varied and in-depth online courses (32 at last count). Paul also suggests the chronological order through which you should go through these courses.

We wrap up this podcast by suggesting some Great Books and inspirational podcasts that are sure to be of immense help to you. This is an episode you do not want to miss. Thanks to Tim for the question. Fly Safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Use Promo Code “LASTCHANCE” to get $100 off on EACH course. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Also the folks at Schedudrone are offering a special discount just for Drone U listeners. Schedudrone is a great App that will take care of your invoicing, contracts and pricing so that you can FOCUS on your business. Use promo code “drone u” to get yourself a killer deal (25% off for life!) on a cool product.

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really 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.

Follow us:
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [01:22] Learn about our cool sponsor, Schedudrone
• [02:31] Today’s question is about how Drone U can help YOU
• [03:39] Discussing the need to stop worrying incessantly about crashing your drone
• [04:31] How to practice with Syma before flying commercially – we discuss the importance of avoiding obstacles and understanding orientation
• [06:45] Which clients should amateur pilots like Tim approach in the initial phases of their career?
• [08:08] Drone U exercises that can help you master flight
• [08:35] Learn about our different Don’t Crash Courses, and how they can help you
• [09:34] Discussing the contents of the Drills and Exercise course and Flying over water course
• [09:58] Learn about our more advanced courses – Videography and Mapping courses
• [10:50] Paul shares the chronological order in which you should take up Drone U courses
• [11:39] How can the various photography courses taught by Vic help you and your drone business?
• [12:44] Do not forget to check out Paul’s Book List
• [13:30] Paul mentions some of his favorite podcasts

Today’s question is about Raptor Maps. Should you use Raptor Maps for thermographic mapping of solar sites? And, can you Pix4D instead of Raptor Maps for thermographic mapping?

Continue reading →

Today’s episode is about dealing with unlicensed pilots. How do you convince these illegal pilots to get their Part 107 certification? And, will you run into serious trouble if you fly unlicensed?

Our caller, Michael is prospecting new customers. And he is running into folks who are flying without Part 107 certification. What is a smooth but effective way of convincing these people to get their Part 107 certification?

We discuss the repercussions of operating as an unlicensed pilot. Learn how FAA is becoming stricter with enforcement’s. And, how you are foolishly running a huge risk by operating without a Part 107 license. Thanks to Michael for the question. Fly Safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Use Promo Code “LASTCHANCE” to get $100 off on EACH course. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Also the folks at Schedudrone are offering a special discount just for Drone U listeners. Schedudrone is a great App that will take care of your invoicing, contracts and pricing so that you can FOCUS on your business. Use promo code drone u to get yourself a killer deal (25% off for life!) on a cool product.

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really 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.

Follow us:
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [01:18] Discussing the tendency of realtors to hire unlicensed pilots
• [03:27] We share details about our cool sponsor, Schedudrone
• [04:32] Today’s question is about dealing with unlicensed operators
• [05:21] Discussing the importance of educating clients
• [06:22] Learn how FAA is becoming stricter with enforcement’s
• [08:50] Will your insurance policy cover you if you do not possess a license?
• [10:20] How to convince unlicensed pilots to take their Part 107 certification without actually threatening them
• [13:05] Should you consider reporting unlicensed operators to authorities?
• [15:00] We sum up today’s episode

Mavic Pro vs Phantom 4 Pro Showdown

Today’s episode is about the DJI Mavic Pro. Can you establish a solid drone business with the Mavic Pro? Does the Mavic Pro have considerable operational limitations as compared to the Phantom 4 Pro?

Our caller, Carlos from Florida is in the market for a new drone. He is wondering if he can make do with the Mavic Pro instead of the Phantom 4 Pro. In order to answer his question, we do a deep dive, and delve into the various differences between these two drones.

We also speculate if you will be able to use the soon to be launched Mavic Pro 2 for UAV mapping. Tune in for some great insights which will help you to determine if the Mavic Pro is right for you and your drone business. Thanks to Carlos from Florida for the question. Fly Safe!

Click here to check out this awesome Pano that Paul shot with a Mavic Pro.

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Use Promo Code “LASTCHANCE” to get $100 off on EACH course. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Do not forget to check out Dynnex Drones. Dynnex Drones, an authorized DJI retailer is offering some really affordable drone financing options. Use the coupon code DRONE U SAVE 25 to get 25 bucks off!

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really 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.

Follow us:
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [00:47] Why is the Phantom 4 Pro more suited for drone businesses compared to the Mavic Pro?
• [01:13] We speculate if the Mavic Pro 2 will be a potential game changer
• [02:17] Learn about our cool sponsor, Dynnex Drones
• [02:54] Today’s question is about the Mavic Pro
• [04:40] Discussing flight dynamics of different DJI drones
• [05:43] Learn how Paul discovered some serious operational limitations on the Mavic Pro while shooting a surfing video
• [07:06] Is it a good idea to carry the Mavic Air and Mavic Pro with you on family vacations?
• [08:13] Paul rattles off the various advantages of the Mavic Pro
• [08:17] Learn why Go Professional Cases is Paul’s favorite company
• [09:08] Do we recommend the new Mavic Pro 2 for UAV mapping?
• [09:38] Paul clarifies an important point pertaining to Global shutters
• [10:35] Learn how Paul shot and edited an awesome Pano with the Mavic Pro
• [11:57] Discussing how using the Mavic Pro will bring your creativity to the fore
• [13:06] Reasons why the Phantom 5 would be perfect for UAV mapping
• [13:55] Learn about our forthcoming episode where we will share how you can easily navigate and make the most of Drone U Resources
• [15:00] Factors which help ensure lifelong success in drone business
• [15:43] How can Drone U help you set up and sustain your drone business

Today we discuss the upcoming FAA Part 107 Recency exam that most drone pilots will have to face after August 31st of this year. Vic is joining us on the show, because he just took the new FAA Part 107 Recency exam and is here to tell us all about it.

On today’s episode we will discuss how to renew your FAA part 107 remote pilot certificate, how the test questions have changed and what to expect.

In addition we will read the rationale of the FAA on the Recency test. With only 40 questions and 90 minutes of time, things have changed. In addition, there are certain sections missing from the whole test!!! Listen in to find out which sections!

Click here to read what the FAA has to say on the FAA Part 107 Recency test.

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Use Promo Code “LASTCHANCE” to get $100 off on EACH course. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a 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 subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really 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.

Follow us:
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [02:01] How many questions were asked in the recency test? Were there any missing sections?
• [02:33] How much time do you have to complete your FAA Part 107 recency test?
• [04:33] What is the process for scheduling your test?
• [06:06] Do you get a new card once you clear the recency test?
• [07:24] Are there any questions on METAR’s in the new test?
• [08:31] Is the new FAA Part 107 test heavily focused on airspace and sectionals?
• [10:02] Can you carry your cellphone inside the testing center?
• [10:20] Are you being monitored constantly?
• [11:04] Learn what the FAA has to say about the recency test; Paul reads out some interesting excerpts
• [12:17] Do you need FAA Part 107 training for the recency test?
• [12:56] Drone U resources that can help you clear the recency test and renew your remote pilot certificate
• [14:20] Do Part 61 pilots need to take the recency test? Or, will an online test suffice?

Maps Made or Pix4D – Which is the Best Drone Mapping Software for you?

Today’s question is about mapping applications. How does Maps Made Easy compare to Pix4D? Is it worth spending so much after Pix4D?

Our caller, Tim from Vancouver is an enterprising drone pilot. Because Pix4D is offering just a short 2 week trial, Tim is wondering if he can use Maps Made Easy instead. Is this a good idea? Or should he stick to Pix4D – the gold standard of mapping applications? We suggest some great hacks via which Tim can make the most of his Pix4D trial. Tune in for some Tips and Tricks which are sure to be of great help to you. Thanks to Tim from Vancouver for the question. Fly Safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Use Promo Code “LASTCHANCE” to get $100 off on EACH course. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Do not forget to check out Dynnex Drones. Dynnex Drones, an authorized DJI retailer is offering some really affordable drone financing options. Use the coupon code DRONE U SAVE 25 to get 25 bucks off!

Get your questions answered: //askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really 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.

Follow us:
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [01:14] Do not miss out on the chance to be a part of the Drone U Fly-in
• [01:41] Learn about our cool sponsor, Dynnex Drones
• [02:37] Today’s question is about mapping applications; can you use Maps Made Easy instead of Pix4D?
• [04:19] Discussing the flawed teaching approach of other drone schools
• [04:57] Denver Drone U is opening shortly – now you shall be able to take the Intermediate mapping class in Denver 24×7
• [05:16] Paul shares how we, at Drone U prepare folks for the mapping class
• [05:44] How to make the most of Pix4D’s 2 week trial; learn about the distinction between Pix4D Capture and Pix4D Desktop
• [06:33] Which are the different mapping acquisition styles that you should practice?
• [07:13] Discussing how the choice of your mapping application is dependent on your deliverable
• [07:36] Can you use MapPilot or Ground Station Pro for data acquisition? What are the various advantages of using MapPilot?

Today’s episode is about real estate photography and videography. What are some Tips and Tricks that will help drone pilots sell houses faster?

Real estate is a tough market. And you have no alternative but to be resourceful and ingenious if you wish to cater to this industry. In today’s episode, Paul and Rob suggest the BEST 5 places within a house that you should shoot with your drone. This episode is peppered with some great nuggets – resources and hacks which can help you sustain your drone business. Thanks to the caller for the question. Fly Safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Use Promo Code “LASTCHANCE” to get $100 off on EACH course. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Also the folks at Schedudrone are offering a special discount just for Drone U listeners. Schedudrone is a great App that will take care of your invoicing, contracts and pricing so that you can FOCUS on your business. Use promo code drone u to get yourself a killer deal (25% off for life!) on a cool product.

Get your questions answered: //askdroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really 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.

Follow us:
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [00:46] Come and compete with other pilots at the Drone U Fly-in; do not miss out on this last chance
• [01:33] Learn about our cool sponsor, Schedudrone
• [02:41] Today’s question is about real estate photography and videography
• [03:13] Drone U Resources for UAV pilots targeting the real estate sector
• [03:55] Statistically, which is the BEST angle to shoot a house?
• [04:52] Expert tips for shooting great real estate videos
• [05:00] Is it a good idea to shoot at sunset?
• [05:23] Which are the BEST 5 places within a house for shooting your drone footage?
• [10:33] Paul suggests a great hack for shooting real estate interiors

Today’s episode is about getting work from big production houses. Which business strategies can help a drone pilot make inroads into this tough and lucrative industry?

Our caller, Aldrich has come up with a great question today. Having heard Paul talk about his experience in the film industry, Aldrich is wondering how he can get work from this lucrative industry. Watch and learn as Paul suggests 4 steps to help you do just that. In this informative episode, we talk about work culture, pricing and much more.

You will also learn why Paul is dead against working for production houses. And, do unions still have a big say in the movie industry? Tune in to find out. Thanks to Aldrich for the question. Fly Safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Use Promo Code “LASTCHANCE” to get $100 off on EACH course. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Do not forget to check out Dynnex Drones. Dynnex Drones, an authorized DJI retailer is offering some really affordable drone financing options. Use the coupon code DRONE U SAVE 25 to get 25 bucks off!

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

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really 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.

Follow us:
Site – https://thedroneu.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu
Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [01:12] Paul shares details about the presentations that NTSB and Pix4D shall be making at the Drone U Fly-in
• [02:17] Learn about our cool sponsor, Dynnex Drones
• [03:13] Today’s question is about getting drone jobs at big production houses
• [04:11] Paul shares his experience working in the film industry
• [04:26] How is the work culture at these big production houses?
• [06:50] 4 steps for getting drone work from big production houses
• [07:19] What is the pricing mechanism for film jobs?
• [08:36] Does Atlanta have many opportunities for UAV pilots? We talk about the different production houses stationed here
• [10:38] Networking strategies for getting work from big production houses
• [11:25] Reasons why Paul is averse to working for production houses
• [12:18] The fourth step for getting work – approach the local permit office
• [14:44] Do unions have a big say in the film industry?