Drone Wedding Photography 2020

So you’re planning a wedding. Congratulations! We’re sure you want to have the most beautiful and unusual photos of the ceremony. And it’s absolutely fair that you’re thinking about drones. They can get shots from above, give panoramic views, and catch the moments that a human eye can’t. Paired with a good operator, a drone will give cinematic pictures.

Wedding venues may offer drone photography. But not all of them will tell you about the risks of using drones. It’s best if you know some things beforehand. Don’t rush to give your money to the first photographer with drones. Better to read this advice first.

1. Drones are noisy

Just listen this.

Have you seen a drone in real life? It’s a pretty disturbing thing. They have propellers and motors and sound like little helicopters. The noise is inappropriate during a wedding ceremony, especially when a priest is speaking and when the bride and groom are exchanging vows. At these important moments, it’s better to keep the drones grounded.

2. Drones can’t fly everywhere

Some zones aren’t drone-friendly. It’s not safe to use drones in indoor venues or in areas with lots of massive trees and telephone poles. It’s better to consult your venue about their drone policy.

For more up-to-date regulations, visit the FAA website.

3. Pay attention to the weather

Drones are like most smartphones. If they get wet they break. Strong wind is also a drone’s enemy. Calm and clear weather is the best for drones. On a rainy and windy day, your sky-bound photographer can crash. Or fly into your guests. So in case of bad weather, it’s better not to use it at all.

4. Buy drone insurance

Robots in the sky can be unpredictable…

You never know what can happen. And you also can’t consider all unforeseen situations. The weather can change suddenly, the drone operator can drink a lot of champagne, a battery can die. And your flying photographer may crash and break something. So insurance is a good idea when you order drone wedding photography.

5. Attention magnets in the sky

Drones work like magnets, attracting the attention of your guests. They distract attention away from you, so use them carefully and responsibly. The best time for a drone photoshoot is during a cocktail or social hour.

8. Check the restrictions

Not all public places allow drones. For example, US national parks never allow drones. Certain cities don’t allow you to fly drones over private property. Better to know about these restrictions beforehand because getting permission or choosing a new location always requires more time and money.

Try to check Air Map before launching your drone.

9. Operator with skills ≠ great shots

Just because someone can a fly drone doesn’t guarantee they can take good pictures. The operator needs to be a good pilot and a good photographer. Just imagine that you’re trying to take a picture but your camera is flying over 10 meters in the air. The operator must choose the right course, catch the decisive moment, and not crash the drone. Ask the drone operator about their skills and maybe ask them to show you.

10. Drone photography is expensive

Often, drone photography is not in the main package. You’ll generally need to pay at least $800 for it. Just know that and be ready for it. Try to increase your wedding budget; drone photography is worth it. Especially when you minimize the risks.