If you aren’t already familiar with these, a drone is a remote-controlled quadcopter that works with your smartphone or mobile device. Often, it is used to capture stunning aerial photos and smooth video footage. With two drone flights under my belt, I feel like a quadcopter / drone flying pro. Okay, not really. But I did learn a lot during the training session with my ENJOY expert. If you plan on getting a drone or even trying your hand at flying one, there are a few points you should keep in mind.
9 Helpful Quadcopter / Drone Tips for Beginners
- Always fly the drone away from you.
- Built-in GPS will keep the drone from floating about all willy-nilly and improve auto return location. The drone will do better if it can connect to 8-10 satellites. In my area it connected to 16!
- Keep an eye on the drone as it takes off and lands to prevent injury or property damage.
- Some drones have “beginner” features to automate some processes.
- Batteries typically lasts 15-20 minutes so it’s a good idea to keep 1-3 extra on you for longer flight sessions. Each takes about 90 minutes to recharge.
- Moving propellors can cause harm so do not let children use drones without supervision.
- Most drones are not 100% waterproof so try to avoid flying it in the rain or fog.
- Avoid collisions by using the attached camera to make sure your drone is flying higher than any surrounding trees or buildings.
- All drones over 1/2 lb. must be registered and properly labeled.
Quadcopter / Drone Tips for Beginners — FAA Regulations & Registration
Since the end of last year, all drones (weighing 1/2 lb. or more) must be registered with the government. It only costs $5 and can be completed online. The process is simple but, hopefully, this mandate will cause more people to fly drones responsibly. Find more details about registration on the FAA site and register here.
I used to think drones were just expensive toys and were part of a fad that would soon fade away. However, now that I’ve actually seen a drone in action and have witnessed just how awesome they are to operate, I think drones are here to stay. As long as these points are kept in mind and fliers use common sense in using, drones are powerful tool for breathtaking photos and video footage.
Are you open to trying/having a drone?
5 comments
I think it would be fun to fly a drone. I didn’t know they had to be registered but that’s good info. I think my oldest two (grown) sons would like to fly these most out of our family. I bet they’d have a great time trying!
It was surprisingly fun 🙂 I’m sure they’d love to try it. The best part is what kind of photos you can capture at those angles!
Good info…I took the plunge and bought the DJI 3 Advanced, like the one you show. Would like to add that BEFORE you fly, read the instructions; twice! Then, fly according to the instructions, then read the instructions again. I have heard of many who just fired it up and away it went….and I mean “away”…never to be seen again! That size drone it NOT a toy. It is an aircraft that needs your full undivided attention at all times while it’s in the air. If you follow the rules, then you are in for a lot of fun and wonderful videos and photos. Remember….unlawful to fly higher than 400 AGL, (above ground level), and do not fly out of your naked eye sight. (Unless you are a commercial drone pilot)
Have fun and Be Safe!
I have the phantom 3 pro and I love the footage you get besides it’s the closest thing then flying. I fly every chance I get.
Have fun and fly high
Nice! It seems like the Phantom 3 Pro really leads the pack in terms of quality. I was kind of bummed that this was only a test for me and I’ve been in want of a drone ever since this trial run! After your testimony, seems like I really need to invest in one soon!
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