From Drone U to You – July 9, 2018
“Traveling with Your Drone? Check DA!!!!! “
Hey Dronies,
Welcome to a new week and the official start of summer! This is the season to be cashing in and loving life. I mean I don’t understand why people won’t work hard to go out and get business. Why won’t they work on their skills and become UNSTOPPABLE? The industry is only going to grow and competition is only going to get harder.

So how do you practice? In the morning? In the afternoon, or at sunset each day? Just remember to practice as if you were filming a production – turn every shot into a smooth movement and try to build on each additional shot.

In order to be successful, you must setup habits and routines that turn into systems. These systems allow you to automate business to better yourself and your business as a whole. The first habit to setup in order to ensure success….? Practice your flying to ensure you stay busy this flying season!

As summer begins and more drone pilots begin traveling, it is important to remember DENSITY ALTITUDE. Recently, while training a group in Albuquerque, we checked the weather information and discovered that density altitude was 8800 ft @ 4989 in altitude. For everyone who isn’t familiar with density altitude, it is a question on the upcoming Recency test for part 107.

Why is it important that DA was 8800’ @ 4989? It means that even though I’m flying at 4989 MSL, the drone is flying at “8800’ MSL”. And it means that the drone is going to work much harder for the same amount of lift. It will kill my batteries faster, and age the vehicle faster. It also meant that we had to switch to high altitude props to avoid all the problems I mentioned earlier.

Lesson of the story – make sure you know density altitude if you are flying in the Rocky Mountains, Southwest, or the Sierra mountains.

Go to this link to get high altitude props for your Inspire 2.

Thanks again for being a part of this amazing community. I greatly appreciate your questions on Ask Drone U. A special shout out to everyone who motivates and inspires others in our Facebook group.

See you next week!
Paul

Can You Sell Drone Footage That You Captured Before Getting Your Part 107 License?

Today’s episode is about your Part 107 license or certification. Is it okay to sell drone footage that you captured before getting your Part 107 license?

Our caller, Brian is yet to get his Part 107 certificate. If he shoots some drone footage as a hobbyist, can he sell it after receiving his Part 107 certification? We discuss some little known facts about flying as a hobbyist and as a commercial pilot. Watch out for today’s Part 107 Test question. Thanks to Brian for the interesting 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/
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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [01:30] We share details about our sponsor, Schedudrone
• [02:22] "]Today’s question: Can you sell images from hobby drone flights?
• [03:21] Can you fly under Part 101 even though you have a Part 107 license?
• [03:33] Paul answers today’s question
• [04:36] Today’s Part 107 Test Question
• [05:33] Learn how Drone U can help you with your Part 107 Recency Test?

Today’s episode is about survey grade maps. Can you get survey grade data with your drone? And, how can you get surveyors to sign off on your drone maps?

Our caller, Kyle from Vancouver has a chance to work with an excavation company. He is wondering how he can have a surveyor sign off on his drone maps. In order to do this, Kyle has to create highly accurate survey grade drone maps. We discuss a step by step approach that will help him do just that.

How do you set your Ground Control Points (GCP’s) for producing accurate drone maps? Do you need RTK GPS? And, how do you measure the accuracy of your drone maps? Tune in and learn as we provide various TIPS and TRICKS that will help you partner with a surveyor. Thanks to Kyle 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!

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

• [00:48] Do not miss out on the chance of being a part of the Drone U Fly-in
• [01:49] Today’s question is about getting surveyors to sign off on your drone maps
• [02:55] Are laws in Canada and US likely to be different with regards to surveying?
• [03:24] Discussing the different kind of maps that can be generated for surveying
• [04:25] How to set GCP’s for producing highly accurate maps
• [05:33] Do you need RTK GPS in order to get good data?
• [05:50] Do you need a M210 or M600 with RTK GPS in order to get survey grade maps?
• [06:25] Paul shares details about our forthcoming course, “Surveying with Drones”
• [06:43] Do you need to use different acquisition styles for creating an accurate 3D map?
• [07:08] What is the best weather for UAV mapping?
• [07:22] How to scale your map in order to get the highest accuracy
• [08:36] Ways to measure the accuracy of your drone maps
• [10:09] Negotiation strategies that will help a drone pilot convince a surveyor to sign off on a drone map
• [13:05] Things that drone pilots can’t do when it comes to surveying

Today’s question is about waivers. Do you need a waiver to fly in controlled airspace? Is it okay to rely on applications such as Airmap and Kittyhawk in order to determine controlled airspace?

Our caller, Jonny from San Diego has just gotten his Part 107 certification. He wishes to procure a waiver in order to fly near an airport in controlled airspace. Does he need to file an airspace authorization in order to do so? Which regions are currently able to use the instantaneous authorization system? We also discuss if it wise to rely on applications such as Airmap and Kittyhawk. And, finally Paul has a great tip which will help you further your drone business. Thanks to Jonny from San Diego 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

• [02:08] Do not miss out on the last chance to be a part of the Drone U Fly-in
• [03:26] Today’s question is about procuring a waiver to fly in controlled airspace
• [04:40] Learn about our sponsor, Dynnex Drones
• [05:26] How can you access the LAANC program?
• [05:39] Paul clarifies if you still need to file an airspace authorization
• [05:54] Which regions are able to utilize the instantaneous authorization system?
• [06:12] How to determine if your area is eligible for instantaneous authorization using UASFM maps
• [06:58] Are applications such as Airmap and Kittyhawk prone to errors?
• [08:25] Learn how reading airspace sectionals can help your further your drone business
• [10:04] If you want sharpen your sales and negotiation skills, do not forget to check out episode 816

From Drone U to You – July 2, 2018

“Have you given up on epic flying? A recap of the drone industry”

Hey Fellow Dronies!

As I attempt to offer more and more insight into the industry and grow our community of learners, I wanted to write a personal message to everyone who has supported Drone U in our weekly Fly-Lights email.

Something I learned:

In recent weeks before my wedding, I went into a major deep dive into drone mapping with Pix4D. While in Denver with Pix4D, we recorded one of the best podcasts we have ever published. It’s Episode 795, and we talk about how the smallest nuances can dramatically affect the accuracy of your maps. I would highly recommend listening to that show.

In addition, many of you who listen to the show know that I’ve been an advocate AGAINST random yahoo’s teaching the local enforcement officers how to do “crime scene mapping”. Being the son of a lawyer who almost inherited our family law firm, I understand how the smallest legal nuances can affect someone’s life FOREVER.

So I’ve been on a mission to create a system for the ultimate checklist to ensure survey grade accuracy with any type of mapping, especially crime scene mapping. I’m not a surveyor. But after working with a few surveying companies, I feel extremely confident in this new process that will become a class here at Drone U.

In my quest to ensure that the right systems would be implemented in the United States, I learned that some of the mapping drones I recommend…. are in fact awful for mapping. I recently learned that the Yuneec Series of drones all have rolling shutters. And I just learnt how this can affect the maps in a negative way.

We noticed a significant difference in the Ground Sampling Distance when comparing the Phantom 4 Pro to the Yuneec H520, a drone I personally like. The Yuneec H520 is really stable and allows an operator to fly more days out of the year. But, even when you correct for the rolling shutter in post processing with Pix4D, the rate of error still fluctuates.

During the comparison, we realized that the GSD from the Phantom at 90 feet was .77 cm gsd. The Yuneec map came back at .73 gsd but only after there was a correction. Check out the full review here.

Long story short, I’ve realized unless a camera has a mechanical or global shutter, it is NOT a good mapping drone. Even the Phantom 4 Pro isn’t a “true” global shutter but a mechanical shutter.

Long story short, the Phantom 4 Pro is still the best mapping drone.

In addition, we just received the new Phantom 4 Pro V2 and began flying it and testing it. Yes, the drone is 4db quieter than the Phantom 4 Pro. But, is it really worth it? Not in my opinion.

The P4P V2 flies in a more unstable manner, especially on descents. In addition, it is not nearly as agile. Moreover, Pix4D and MapsMadeEasy have yet to connect with the drone. Wondering if you should buy the Phantom 4 Pro V2 right away… the decision is ultimately up to you but personally, I would wait.

Thank you for being a part of this growing community. I greatly appreciate your support of Drone U.

Make sure to check out the Construction Mapping class, Subject Tracking class and the Night Photography class that just launched on the site!

See you next week!

Paul

Will You Run into Any Problems If You Fly Your Drone at Low Altitudes?

Today’s episode is about “How to fly your drone at low altitudes”. Is it problematic to fly your drone at low altitudes? What are some precautions that you need to take?

Today’s caller, John from Alaska wishes to fly his Mavic Pro in a valley in order to get some cool glacier shots. Will flying at a low altitude cause GPS interference? What about loss of signal? We also discuss some precautionary measure which shall enable you to fly at low altitudes. Thanks to John 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!

Also the folks at Schedudrone are offering a special discount just for Drone U listeners. Schedudrone is a great automation tool that allows you to 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

• [00:43] Learn about our newly launched classes; Drone U members can now access 32 awesome classes for a low monthly cost of $47
• [01:36] We share details about our newest sponsor, Schedudrone
• [02:33] Today’s question is about how to fly your drone at low altitudes
• [04:16] Today’s Part 107 question – What speed limit applies to sUAS operations?
• [04:46] What problems are you likely to encounter while flying your drone at low altitudes? We discuss GPS interference
• [06:55] How to fly your drone in national parks
• [08:16] Paul shares some interesting information about future podcast topics

Today’s episode is about networking strategies for building your drone business. What is the best way to build a solid client base? Will relying on digital marketing alone suffice?

Our caller, Michael has come up with a great question today. Michael wishes to build his drone business. How can he network with prospective clients who can give him a steady stream of work? Rob and Paul share some nuggets which are sure to be of great help to you. Is inter personal marketing still extremely important? Can you rely completely on digital marketing? Tune in to find out. 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!

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!

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
Drone U Recommended Book on Negotiation Strategies – https://amzn.to/2tiN4dU

Timestamps

• [01:21] Do not miss out! Be a part of the forthcoming Drone U Fly-in
• [02:34] Learn how you can get ample training under your belt at the Fly-in
• [03:58] Learn about our sponsor, Dynnex drones
• [04:40] Today’s question is about networking in order to build your drone business
• [05:44] Discussing the ultimate goal of networking
• [06:20] Is it helpful to be a part of a networking group?
• [06:58] How can you build credibility with your networking group?
• [08:28] Can digital marketing completely displace traditional marketing?
• [09:23] Learn how Drone U can help you network with like minded individuals
• [10:16] Discussing how a combination of digital and traditional marketing ultimately leads to success
• [12:16] Looking for some networking tips? Check out these great books

Today’s episode is about a proper attire for drone pilots. Is it important for a drone pilot to look professional? Will a proper attire help a drone pilot market his drone business?

Our caller, Orlando just received his Part 107 certification. He has started taking up real estate photography jobs and is wondering about the proper attire for drone pilots. Will a formal attire help you market your drone business? Can you stave off pesky intruders if you are appropriately dressed? Tune in to find out. Thanks to Orlando 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!

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

• [01:21] Do not miss out on your chance to be a part of the Drone U Fly-in; Use promo code “LASTCHANCE” to receive $100 off on each course
• [01:56] Today’s question is about appropriate attire for drone pilots
• [03:30] Can you market your drone business through your attire?
• [03:36] Should drone pilots wear high visibility vests?
• [04:46] Will a formal attire result in less intruders?
• [06:07] It is mandatory to wear a hard hat and vest on a construction site?
• [06:32] What is an appropriate attire for a real estate job?
• [07:00] Is it okay to wear a T-shirt? Will it come across as too casual?