Top Mistakes to Avoid in Aerial Photography
Everything You Need to Know Before Flying FPV Drones
Aerial photography is one of the most rewarding ways to capture landscapes, events, and unique perspectives. With drones becoming more advanced and accessible, more photographers are taking to the skies — but even experienced pilots make mistakes that can ruin a session or damage expensive gear.
Whether you’re shooting for fun, for a client, or as part of a creative project, avoiding these common errors will save you frustration and help you capture better, sharper, and more impactful aerial images.
Here’s a beginner-friendly but professional checklist of the top mistakes to avoid in drone photography — and what to do instead.
Forgetting the Memory Card
Nothing stops a shoot faster than realising your memory card is missing or full.
Avoid it:
- Always keep a formatted memory card in your drone.
- Carry spares in a waterproof case.
- Format cards before every flight to maximise space.
Skipping the Flight Plan
Flying without a plan often leads to missed shots and wasted battery life.
Why planning matters:
- Helps you visualise angles and lighting in advance.
- Identifies hazards like power lines, trees, and buildings.
Pro tip: Use Google Earth or a drone app to scout the location before you arrive.
Not Shooting in RAW
JPEGs are fine for casual snapshots — but RAW files preserve far more detail, giving you flexibility for exposure, colour, and white balance adjustments in post-production.
Even for practice flights, shoot in RAW — you never know when you’ll capture something worth keeping.
Ignoring the Weather Forecast
Wind, rain, and sudden storms can ruin shots or cause crashes.
Always check weather conditions twice — when planning and right before leaving.
Avoid flying in:
- High winds
- Rain or fog
- Extreme cold without battery precautions
Breaking Local Drone Regulations
Drone laws vary by country (and sometimes by region). Flying where you shouldn’t can result in fines, confiscation, or legal trouble.
Know your rules:
- Check official aviation authority websites (e.g., CASA in Australia).
- Avoid no-fly zones and respect privacy laws.
Relying Only on Auto Mode
Auto exposure works in simple conditions, but challenging light requires manual mode.
Benefits of manual mode:
- Adjust shutter speed, ISO, and aperture for better control.
- Avoid overexposure in bright skies or underexposure in shadows.
Use your drone’s histogram to ensure a balanced exposure.
Using Extremely Long Exposures
Even the most stable drones can drift slightly in wind. Long shutter speeds may cause motion blur.
Solution: Experiment with shorter exposures and only use long exposure in calm, low-wind conditions.
Not Calibrating the Compass
A miscalibrated compass can cause unstable hovering or erratic flight.
Calibrate your compass every time you fly in a new location, and check GPS lock before takeoff.
Travelling Without Battery Safety Prep
Airlines have strict rules about drones and batteries.
Before you travel:
- Check your airline’s drone policy.
- Carry lithium-ion batteries in fireproof bags in your hand luggage.
- Label batteries with their capacity for easier inspection.
Flying With Only One Battery
Most drone batteries last 20–30 minutes — rarely enough for multiple shots or backup plans.
Tip: Bring at least two to three fully charged batteries. In cold weather, keep them warm until use.
Flying Over Crowds or Animals
It’s illegal in many countries and dangerous everywhere.
- Keep 30 metres away from people.
- Avoid startling wildlife, especially birds.
- Respect privacy and protected habitats.
Ignoring Magnetic Interference Warnings
Flying near industrial zones, antennas, or large metal structures can disrupt your drone’s compass and GPS.
If your drone alerts you to interference, move to a different location before taking off.
Final Thoughts
Great aerial photography is as much about preparation as it is about skill. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll protect your gear, comply with local laws, and capture more consistent, professional-looking images.
Remember:
- Plan your shoot.
- Double-check your gear.
- Respect safety and legal guidelines.
With these habits, you’ll spend less time troubleshooting and more time creating stunning aerial photographs.
At The Flying Emu, we provide cinematic aerial photography and videography services across Perth and Western Australia. Whether it’s real estate, tourism, or creative campaigns, we handle everything — from flight planning to final edit.
