Today, we talk about computers for processing drone maps. You will learn about Pix4D requirements for processing drone maps and modes.

After all, you’re going to need a good computer setup if you want to make money as a drone mapper.  What type of computer can handle maps and models on Pix4D?  How much is it going to cost?  Are Pix4D’s recommendations antiquated?

We recently purchased a computer ourselves.  We talk a bit about our setup and the amount of money we spent on it.  We also discuss the modifications you might consider and what you can expect to pay.

Thanks to Scott for the question.  Fly safe!

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:

Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40

Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10

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.

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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
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Timestamps

• [02:41] Today, we talk about computers for processing maps
• [03:52] Paul and Rob discuss the issues that they ran into while purchasing a custom built computer
• [04:31] How much did the new custom built Drone U computer cost?
• [05:40] What are Pix4D requirements as stated on their website? Are they sufficient?
• [05:48] Discussing the specifications of the custom built computer that Drone U recently purchased
• [06:17] How does a PCLE compare to a regular SSD?
• [06:40] Is it a good idea to opt for old servers with Xenon processors?
• [07:04] Paul suggests a great resource for getting a custom built machine
• [07:21] Is it wise to opt for an AMD processor over an i9 or Xeon processor?
• [07:46] Should you opt for the 1080 Ti Nvidia over the Nvidia Titan?
• [08:26] We share how long point cloud processing takes at Drone U
• [09:06] Being cognizant of the heat generated in custom built systems; should you rather opt for a water cooled system?
• [10:47] Can you run maps and processes on a Mac while using Pix4D?

Today, we talk about marketing your drone modeling services.  Kevin from New Jersey called in with a unique marketing idea and wanted to know if we’d ever seen anyone else do it.

Essentially, Kevin has the idea to use After Effects to edit and animate his models.  It’s a great idea that could be really useful in a demo reel.  While we’ve never seen anyone else do it, we have seen some interesting things done to market drone modeling services.

Luckily, Pix4D makes it easy to showcase your models in video form.  In order to help you all create the best possible videos, we talk about using Pix4D to make videos from still images.  Fly safe!

Don’t forget to pick up a charger from Colorado Drone Chargers.  Those guys make high-quality quadchargers to help you maximize your flight time!

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:
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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

• [02:25] Today, we talk about marketing your drone modeling services
• [03:41] Is it is commercially viable to do time lapses of models?
• [04:14] Can models be showcased in video form using Pix4D?
• [05:46] Learn how you can get the highest possible resolution of your screen grabs
• [06:35] Is it possible to virtually fly through your model in real time? Are there any resources out there that let you do that?

Today, we talk about pricing your drone services.  Specifically, we discuss how to price a job when you’ve been hired to shoot a horse race.  James called in to ask how to determine the cost of his services and if he should charge per race.

Although we talk about horse races specifically, this is a great episode for anyone who wants information about pricing.  We explain how you can determine the cost of deliverables and make the most amount of money for your time.  Good luck James!  Fly safe!

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:
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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

• [02:38] Today, we talk about pricing your drone services for a horse race
• [04:10] What are some of the factors that you should consider as far as deliverables are concerned?
• [04:22] Are you likely to encounter flying limitations while filming a horse race?
• [05:18] Discussing pricing for drone services; we factor in costs as a result of hiring VO’s, live streaming, editing, adding sound clips and more

Yuneec H520 vs DJI Phantom 4 Pro Comparison – Which is the Better for Drone Mapping?

Can you build accurate drone maps and models using the Yuneec H520? How does the Yuneec compare to the Phantom 4 Pro? Tune in to this in-depth discussion.

Those of you who’ve taken our mapping class will know that we used a Phantom 4 Pro to shoot the course content.  Today, we explain why.

Both the P4 Pro and the Yuneec H520 have their own benefits.  Depending on who you are, the type of work you do and how serious you are about mapping, you may find each drone to hold a different value.  Tune in to find out why we used the Phantom 4 Pro and how you can determine which drone is the best for your mapping needs.

You can check out the Imus Ranch video and Paul’s famous fence shot here.  Fly safe!

Don’t forget, we’re giving away a Mavic Pro Platinum!

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:
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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

• [03:06] Today we discuss why we use the Phantom 4Pro against the Yuneec H520 for the mapping course
• [05:10] What are some of the advantages of using the Yuneec H520 for mapping purposes?
• [05:34] Explaining how we input annotations in order to get a 360 degree view
• [06:08] What are some of the disadvantages of using Matterport over a drone for mapping missions?
• [09:56] How does Yuneec H520 imagery compare to that of a Phantom 4Pro?
• [10:36] Discussing how editing raw images in Adobe LightRoom will result in far better details
• [11:44] Can you do point of interest using a Yuneec?
• [12:49] Is it advantageous to use the Yuneec H520 while mapping super large areas?
• [13:23] We talk about the superior wind handling capacity of the Yuneec H520
• [14:01] Can the Yuneec Typhoon H520 be paired with an E90 camera?
• [14:20] How does the Yuneec H520 compare to the Phantom 4Pro in terms of build and motors?
• [15:32] Paul talks about his experience with using the Yuneec H520 for mapping a stadium
• [16:51] Discussing why absence of free flight mode in the Yuneec H520 is a huge disadvantage
• [17:42] Paul provides information about Drone U’s forthcoming Don’t Crash course with the Yuneec H520
• [18:57] Can you use an Inspire 1 with the X5 camera?

How to rent a thermal imaging camera

Today, we talk about renting a thermal imaging camera.  Renting drone equipment can be a cost-effective alternative to buying one, particularly in cases where you’ll only be using it for a few jobs.

Kevin from NJ calls in with a question about this very situation.  Does it makes sense to purchase a thermal camera if he only has one or two jobs lined up?  Considering the cost of a thermal camera, probably not!

Luckily, there are a number of drone rental services.  Certain companies will allow you to rent drone equipment so you can get work done without spending a ton of money.  Looking for a drone rental service?  Tune in to find out where you can find one!

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:

Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40

Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10

Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40

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/
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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

• [03:28] Today we talk about renting a thermal imaging camera
• [04:26] Is it a good idea to rent a thermal imaging camera?
• [04:39] Paul suggests a great resource for renting a thermal camera
• [04:49] Why is renting a thermal camera a popular option for public safety officers?
• [05:32] Discussing and contrasting the capabilities of the Zenmuse XT and the Zenmuse XT AR
• [06:30] Do you need certification for taking up thermal imaging jobs? How can Drone U help you?
• [07:36] What are some alternative resources for renting thermal imaging cameras? We share details of a new drone sharing site

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/
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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

[00:42] Today we are talking about the Blackhawk drone crash that occurred in New York
[00:48] We delve into details of the drone helicopter crash
[01:43] Was the pilot Part 107 certified?
[03:12] Was the drone pilot unaware of any TFR’s?
[05:44] Was there significant damage to the helicopter? Could the damage have been much worse?
[06:30] How did the NTSB get information about the drone pilot?
[07:16] Will there be any action against the drone pilot for violating TFR’s and not flying visual line of sight?
[08:26] Is it advisable to refer to Airmap for flight data? Should you rather refer some official sources?
[09:47] Bill shares how drones have helped NTSB conduct more efficient accident investigations

Today, we talk about mapping and modeling software. Is there an affordable yet equally capable alternative to Pix4D?

Continue reading →

Today, we talk about SkyPixel and content ownership. Do you own the videos that you post on SkyPixel?

Well, no. According to the Terms and Conditions listed on their website:

By submitting, posting, or publishing User Content on or through the Service, you grant DJI a worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free, fully paid, sub-licensable and transferable right and license to use, copy, host, store, transfer, display, publish, broadcast, transmit, perform, reproduce, modify, prepare derivative works from, distribute, or otherwise exploit your User Content, in whole or in part, in any media formats and through any media channels now known or hereafter developed, in connection with the Service and DJI’s (and its successors’ and affiliates’) business, including without limitation for promoting and redistributing part or all of the Service (and derivative works thereof). In addition, you waive any so-called “moral rights” in your User Content.

Essentially, DJI is saying that, by posting your videos on SkyPixel, you are waiving all rights to control what happens to the videos you post there. However, there is a termination clause listed in the Terms and Conditions as well. The clause states:

The above licenses granted by you in User Content you submit, post, or publish on or through the Service terminate within a commercially reasonable period of time after you remove or delete User Content from the Service. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the license for legal archival/preservation purposes will continue indefinitely. Please note that removed User Content may be cached in search engine indices after removal and that DJI has no control over such caching.

Basically, the termination states that you may have the ability to regain control over your content if you delete your membership within a “commercially reasonable time period”. While we’re not exactly sure what constitutes a “commercially reasonable time period” (days, weeks?), you do have a chance at reclaiming full copyright over your content.

In short, SkyPixel can be a great tool for drone pilots. However, you should consider the ramifications before posting any content.  Fly safe!

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:

Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40

Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10

Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40

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/
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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

• [02:07] Today, we talk about SkyPixel and content ownership
• [03:11] What do the terms and conditions stated on the Skypixel website state with regards to content ownership?
• [04:34] Is there any chance that Skypixel will forgo ownership with passage of time?

Which industries are paying for drone models?

Today, we talk about lucrative drone business opportunities in 2017. Firstly, we talk about drone modeling.  Different from maps, models give their viewer a three-dimensional experience of a location.

Without a doubt, modeling is one of the most important skills a drone pilot can have right now.  There are drone business opportunities for mappers in agriculture, construction, golf courses and real estate agencies.  In addition to advertising, drone models help companies provide better services to their clients.

In order to help you understand the value of drone models, we discuss some of the industries that are using them.  Additionally, we talk about how training can help you make money as a drone modeler.  We hope this episode is helpful!  Fly safe!

Don’t forget, our friends at Videoblocks are currently offering a “Triple Bundle” package, which gives you full-access to copyright-free video, audio and images for only $149 per year!  Make sure to check them out!

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/
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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

• [03:16] Today we talk about drone business opportunities in mapping and modeling
• [04:40] Discussing the immense potential of interactive maps in the luxury real estate market
• [05:32] What are some of the sources for getting drone modeling jobs?
• [05:48] Are there lucrative drone business opportunities in construction? What are the client requirements in construction modeling?
• [06:51] We talk about creating drone models for marketing purposes
• [07:14] Using drone models to market golf courses
• [08:11] Why is it a better idea to market resorts using drone models rather than videos?
• [08:52] Drone Business Opportunities in agriculture
• [09:26] How can drone models help prevent fraudulent practices in disaster management?
• [11:00] Importance of visual representation while selling drone modeling services to a client
• [12:54] Discussing the creation of virtual models which results in a highly interactive experience

Originally Aired: Wednesday, December 14, 2017 at 7 pm EST

In this informative webinar, Paul and Doug cover quite a few topics related to mapping. We talk about the best mapping hardware, removing software glitches, client deliverables and providing more value add to the client. We also discuss the immense potential of LIDAR. So if you are are already taking up mapping jobs or planning on venturing into this field, do not think twice before tuning in to this webinar to receive some great insights from Paul and Doug.