Back in the day, when you needed an overhead view of your property or the landscape, you needed to photograph it from the highest point in your area or a moving plane. The onset of drones has made it possible to capture beautiful aerial photographs and videos without taking your feet off the ground. How cool is that? Also, unlike most photography equipment, drones are convenient because they are small enough to fit in a backpack. You can carry them around all day without numbing your arms from the weight. However, despite their convenience and portability, drones can be challenging for a first-time user. This article will give you tips to help you elevate your drone skills to a professional level.

1. Find out the rules and regulations in your area

Finding out the guidelines of photography in your area will give your insight into suitable locations and the altitude level you are required to maintain. In most countries, it illegal to photograph over an altitude of 100m without permission. When you do not scout your locations before the shoot, you can fly into crowds or private property and land yourself in problems. If the guidelines are not clear, you can reach out to the local aviation department to inquire about the photography guidelines.

2. Use autopilot flight mode

As a beginner, it can be challenging to manage the flight and camera controls simultaneously. You can choose to utilize the autopilot flight mode, which will enable the drone to control the flight as you focus on the camera controls. If your drone has the teaching mode feature, you can connect your controller to another drone's controller. Connecting the controllers can enable you to get help flying the drone from a friend who has experience in drone photography.

3. Select the RAW image format

RAW is the unprocessed and uncompressed version of the photo. Selecting the RAW file will give you more editing room in post-processing. Click on the settings> camera icon> image format, and choose RAW. While in RAW, consider bracketing your shot to gain more exposure without adjusting any other settings. The A 5 Bracket AEB (Automatic Exposure Bracketing) is recommended for drone photography. It will take 1 photo at the setting, select 2 overexposed and 2 underexposed pictures giving you more options in post-processing.

4. Use the rule of thirds

Drones capture beautiful landscape pictures, but poor composition can take away from creativity. If the drone settings allow, switch the camera to the grid composition and position the subject within the thirds of your frame. Look for elements within the landscape to capture the viewer's eye by acting as leading lines to the main subject. Place the elements at the intersection of the grid and use it to lead the viewer's eye to the subject. For example, a road can be a leading line into a city or park, and a river can act as a leading line to an ocean or a mountain.

5. Pay attention to the weather

Harsh weather conditions can limit a drone's function. Therefore, it is vital to check the weather forecast ahead of planning your shoot.

Like every new tech gadget, drones are exciting and fun to use. They can be challenging for beginners, but consistent practicing will turn you into a pro drone photographer in no time.