From inspecting powerlines and assessing wildfires to aerial photogrammetry, drones are rapidly increasing in popularity, increasing work efficiency in a variety of industries. But just because you can easily acquire a drone in San Diego, doesn’t mean you can fly it anywhere or for any purpose you choose.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has strict regulations when it comes to flying unmanned aircraft systems, especially for non-military purposes. For instance, drones cannot fly at night and are not permitted to fly within five miles of an airport. These are just some of the regulations you must be aware of as a drone pilot.

Such regulations are in place for a reason. Even though drone regulation is focused primarily on safety considerations, it’s important to recognize that flying drones in San Diego carries with it some data and privacy protection concerns.

But there’s no denying that drone filming can produce stunning marketing content. Drone footage captures unimaginable perspectives that were previously impossible. It’s the perfect way to capture a distinct vantage point of your business or event – from a bird’s eye point-of-view at that.

That said, capturing drone footage isn’t as simple as acquiring a flying robot. It’s a heavily regulated industry, which means you would benefit from the guiding hand of a professional. Let’s look at how you would benefit from working with a professional drone pilot.

Why Hire a Professional Drone Pilot?

First, it’s important to make a distinction between a drone operator and a drone pilot. A drone operator is any person or entity that owns or rents a drone while a pilot is anyone flying the drone, whether they own it or not.

For commercial applications, drones’ must be flown under the FAA’s Part 107 rules. On that note, the process of acquiring a Remote Pilot Certificate isn’t particularly hard, nor do you need to be a professional to acquire one. So, why is it so important to work with a professional drone pilot?

1. Licensure

It may not be difficult to get a license, but it is important to have one. It ensures that an individual has a few basic skills including knowledge of airspace regulations, aerodynamics, and weather dynamics. That’s why it’s important to ask for your pilot’s 107 certificate before hiring them. The certificate must be current and free of violations.

Now, professional drone pilots take things a step further. They know where, when, and how high they can fly. It’s imperative to factor in the level of experience and professionalism that can be provided. This way, you’re assured of high-quality aerial footage and a seamless process. What’s more, a professional pilot can assist with applications for drone flights in San Diego, effectively helping get your projects off the ground.

2. Safety is a priority

As professionals, drone pilots have a duty to keep the air space safe for everyone. It’s one thing to put a drone in the air; it’s quite another issue to do so safely. Professional drone pilots in San Diego have dedicated hours to learning and decoding FAA regulations. They also know how various factors such as wind speed can affect flights as well as quality of footage.

Work with a professional who doesn’t compromise when it comes to safety.

3. Liability Insurance

Many professional pilots are running a business, and in most cases, this requires them to have liability insurance of some kind. Having drone insurance is a smart move where you’re concerned. It assures you that the pilot you’re working with is both credible and trustworthy. Hiring an amateur drone pilot means putting you and your business at legal risk.

4. The most efficient way to get drone content

Video marketing is a vital aspect of growing a business, which means aerial footage must be top-notch to differentiate your brand from competitors. Taking drone footage involves more than just takeoff, filming or snapping a few photos. It requires understanding framing and how the sun can affect the quality of a photo.

Moreover, professional drone pilots understand the capabilities of each type of drone, enabling them to adjust their photography or videography appropriately.

Best Places to Shoot Drone Footage in San Diego

Keeping in mind airspace restrictions, accessibility and attractions, here are some great places to shoot drone footage in San Diego.

1. Sweetwater Reservoir Spring Valley

Here’s another Class G airspace that provides awe-inspiring views. This reservoir features a 2.5 mile shoreline, wide-open spaces and a mountainous backdrop, perfect for capturing incredible drone footage in San Diego.

2. Johnson Field

The scenery at Johnson Field is incredible, offering various picturesque trails for your drone pilot to explore. It happens to be a Class G, uncontrolled airspace that provides a nice view of the mountains off in the distance.

3. Coronado Cays Park – Class G – 400 feet max

Coronado Cays Park is a flat, spread-out grassy strip of land that gives way to the Pacific Ocean on one side and the breathtaking San Diego Bay on the other. The park has virtually no trees, giving your drone an unhindered view of the ground. It’s an uncontrolled airspace, which means you can fly your drone up to 400 feet to capture stunning views.

4. El Capitan Reservoir –

Located in the Cuyamaca Mountains, the El Capitan Reservoir, offers incredible views for capturing drone footage including an expansive view of the water. The mountainous landscape and wildlife, making this uncontrolled airspace an ideal location for inspiring feels of awe and wonder in your audience.

5. Fletcher Cove

One thing that can hinder great photography is overcrowded beaches. That’s the one thing Fletcher Cove does not offer. Instead it provides an unimpaired view of the beach that’s perfect for drone footage.

6. San Vicente Reservoir

In the mood for rugged aerial landscapes? Then you should make your way to this Class G airspace whose water makes for a striking contrast with the surrounding landscape.

7. Fiesta Island

A popular location for charity walks, runs and bicycle races, Fiesta Island is a Class G airspace, providing an unmatched view of the Mission Bay area. It’s crucial to note that the southern end of the island is a Class B controlled airspace. While recreational drones are prohibited from flying in Class B airspace, you can receive a commercial license to fly your aircraft up to 100 feet.

8. The Oceanside Pier

The Oceanside Pier is one of the most iconic landmarks in San Diego. It’s a great place to enjoy the coastline’s natural beauty and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. As a Class G uncontrolled airspace, you can only fly to a maximum height of 400 feet.

Work with DreamVision

Simply put, Dreamvision is a market leader in all things drone. You need not worry about safety, reliability or compliance as our track record speaks for itself. Get ready to take your marketing to new heights.