What To Buy - Getting Started in Aerial Photography

So you are reading this post because you have a passion for remote controlled drones and want to take some cool pictures like this one to the left, you are looking for a new niche business in an exciting new field, or you want to help cover the cost of your new toy by taking a few pictures for hire.  This post is for the first two and will help you figure out what works best to get started.  If you already have your equipment picked out, you might consider reading my ebook that walks you through the steps of making some money with your helicopter.  

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Basic Aerial Photography Setup

• DJI Phantom - A solid affordable choice for the beginner.  It can be upgraded in many ways to function the same way as the newer and more expensive options below by adding an FPV transmitter and zenmuse gimbal.   If you know you will want the functionality of a video downlink and super stable video, you might want to consider the other two options below.
• GoPro Silver - This is a great camera.  I took the picture above using it.  

That is all there is to a basic setup!  You just slap the camera on your phantom, charge the batteries and you are ready to start taking aerial photos and video!  It really is that simple if you already have basic RC skills!

Plug and Play Advanced System 

• DJI Phantom 2 Vision - This thing has so many features and is a great option for someone that does not want to spend any time messing around on the work bench.  It has a built in camera so you do not need to purchase a GoPro, it outputs video directly to an iOS device for the downlink,  It has a one axis gimbal that will allow decent aerial video.  This would be a good choice for someone interested in the technology but with very little experience building and tinkering.  

The Works

• DJI Phantom 2 with Zenmuse - This will give you the ability to shoot amazing video along with great photos.  The zenmuse line of gimbals are the best there is and provide super smooth, vibration free video.  Installing the FPV transmitter is also much easier on the Phantom 2.  
  
• FPV Transmitter - You need this to transmit video to a video monitor or goggles.  I have used a ton of these and this is the one I choose.  It is amazing!
• Fatshark Dominator Video Goggles - There are lots of ways you can shoot great aerial photographs but using the video goggles to fly FPV is my way of choice.  I personally don't like little LCD monitors because they are difficult to see in the sun.