Ask Drone U

Discover how Skylights Tech has transformed the art of storytelling through drones, creating breathtaking aerial displays that captivate audiences worldwide. In this captivating episode of "Elevating Drone Life," we take you behind the scenes of the mesmerizing world of drone shows with the visionary team from Skylights Tech. Join host Rob Burdick as he sits down with Luis Sanchez, Clara Canino, and Israel Canino to explore their incredible journey from university friends to pioneers in the drone entertainment industry. Discover how Skylights Tech has transformed the art of storytelling through drones, creating breathtaking aerial displays that captivate audiences worldwide. From their humble beginnings in Mexico to executing large-scale shows for global brands like Coca-Cola and Six Flags, the team shares their insights on the technical and creative processes that make each show a unique spectacle. Learn about the challenges they face, such as navigating international regulations and overcoming technical hurdles, and how they continue to innovate with new technologies like pyrotechnics and interactive experiences. The episode also delves into the importance of teamwork and the role of creativity in pushing the boundaries of what's possible with drone shows. Whether you're a drone enthusiast, a tech aficionado, or simply curious about this cutting-edge form of entertainment, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Tune in to hear how Skylights Tech is not just elevating drones, but elevating unforgettable moments that leave a lasting impact on audiences around the globe. Timestamps [00:00] Introduction to Skylights Tech and Drone Shows [10:00] The Journey of Skylights Tech [20:01] The Logistics of Drone Shows [29:57] Designing a Drone Show [40:02] Technical Aspects of Drone Operations [50:00] Challenges and Safety Measures [59:48] Clientele and Market Opportunities [01:09:57] Future of Skylights Tech and Innovations Want to Make Money Flying Drones? DroneU gives you the blueprint to start and grow a real drone business: FAA Part 107 prep 40+ courses on flight skills, real estate, mapping, and business Pricing guides, client acquisition, and weekly coaching Supportive community of top-tier drone pros Start here https://www.thedroneu.com Know someone ready to take the leap? Share this episode with them !! Stuck between a safe job and chasing your drone dream? Download our FREE Drone Pilot Starter Kit Includes: FAA checklist, pricing template, and plug-and-play proposal to help you land your first client with confidence. https://learn.thedroneu.com/bundles/drone-pilot-starter-kit Stay Connected Hit Like if you learned something new / Subscribe and turn on notifications / Share this with a pilot or creative stuck at a crossroads

What should you know about the FAA Part 108 and how can it impact your drone operations? Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's In-Person training. We are announcing bootcamps in November and December. Sign up today before we are sold out !! This is our five-day boot camp that includes a one-day Flight Mastery + Videography Training, followed by 4 days of Desktop and Cloud Based Mapping training. In this unique training event, we cover desktop and cloud based mapping techniques. Our Desktop-Based Mapping Class is designed for drone professionals looking to gain expert-level skills in processing, analyzing, and manipulating mapping data. This intensive course utilizes Pix4DMapper, Pix4DReact, and Pix4DMatic, providing a comprehensive hands-on experience in advanced drone mapping techniques. Cloud-Based Mapping Class is designed to give you a complete, hands-on experience with modern drone mapping techniques using Site Scan by Esri. Over the course of 1.5 intensive days, you'll learn how to create high-quality 2D maps, orthomosaics, and geo-referenced models while mastering the essential principles of data acquisition and processing We have classes in November and December, Click HERE to book your seat today !! In today's episode, we delve into the transformative impact of the FAA's Part 108 regulations on drone operations. Discover how these new rules are reshaping the landscape for drone enthusiasts and professionals alike, enhancing safety and innovation in the skies. We explore the intricate world of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) regulations and the hurdles they present to drone operators. From navigating complex legal frameworks to understanding the technological requirements, we uncover the challenges that come with pushing the boundaries of drone capabilities. We tackle the pressing concerns surrounding the future of drone delivery and the broader implications for industry innovation. As technology races ahead, we examine the hurdles that could stall progress, from regulatory challenges to public perception. Join us as we explore the opportunities and challenges that come with navigating this evolving regulatory environment. Tune in to stay informed and ahead in the world of drones! 5-Day Free Course: Thriving Drone Real Estate Business Transform your drone operations into a thriving real estate-focused business. Learn client management, pricing for profit, and creating high-value deliverables. Grow My Drone Business Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Click here for access to Skywatch for all your drone insurance purposes ! Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneuADU 1382: Build my own drone to do photogrammetry work? Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [01:10] Introduction to Part 108 and Its Importance [03:11] Understanding Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Operations [06:01] The Impact of Part 108 on Small and Medium Operators [08:44] Navigating the Complexities of BVLOS Regulations [12:01] The Role of Comments in Shaping Regulations [14:45] The Future of Drone Operations and Safety Concerns [14:43] What does don't operate dangerously mean for recreational pilots [18:01] The Dichotomy of Pilot Responsibility and Corporate Accountability [20:49] The Need for Simplified Regulations [24:12] Community Reactions and Industry Perspectives [27:01] Final Thoughts and Call to Action

What should pilots know about NDAA compliance for LiDAR systems. Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's In-Person training. This is our five-day boot camp that includes a one-day Flight Mastery + Videography Training, followed by 4 days of Desktop and Cloud Based Mapping training. In this unique training event, we cover desktop and cloud based mapping techniques. Our Desktop-Based Mapping Class is designed for drone professionals looking to gain expert-level skills in processing, analyzing, and manipulating mapping data. This intensive course utilizes Pix4DMapper, Pix4DReact, and Pix4DMatic, providing a comprehensive hands-on experience in advanced drone mapping techniques. Cloud-Based Mapping Class is designed to give you a complete, hands-on experience with modern drone mapping techniques using Site Scan by Esri. Over the course of 1.5 intensive days, you'll learn how to create high-quality 2D maps, orthomosaics, and geo-referenced models while mastering the essential principles of data acquisition and processing We have classes in August and September and last few slots avalable, Click HERE to book your seat today !! Not many pilots speak about the sensor side of drone flying. Our question for today, from Jimmy, is all about knowing LiDAR and its NDAA compliance requirements. Thank you Jimmy for the question, there is a lot of discussions surrounding approvals from NDAA compliant devices. We went through the rabbit hole for understanding compliance and regulations surrounding sensor use and discuss the regulations surrounding the LiDAR tech and system compliance and what it means for contracting federal projects. Tune in today on this short information packed episode !! 5-Day Free Course: Thriving Drone Real Estate Business Transform your drone operations into a thriving real estate-focused business. Learn client management, pricing for profit, and creating high-value deliverables. Grow My Drone Business Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Click here for access to Skywatch for all your drone insurance purposes ! Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneuADU 1382: Build my own drone to do photogrammetry work? Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [02:15] Learn more about Drone U mapping class and bootcamps [04:55] Today's question on LiDAR and NDAA compliance [07:11] What the regulations speak about the use of LiDAR tech [14:22] Cost implications of using American and non-American LiDAR tech

What drones can pilots choose based on their requirements and what are some of the best drones across multiple domains. Today's podcast is brought to you by Drone U's In-Person training. This is our five-day boot camp that includes a one-day Flight Mastery + Videography Training, followed by 4 days of Desktop and Cloud Based Mapping training. In this unique training event, we cover desktop and cloud based mapping techniques. Our Desktop-Based Mapping Class is designed for drone professionals looking to gain expert-level skills in processing, analyzing, and manipulating mapping data. This intensive course utilizes Pix4DMapper, Pix4DReact, and Pix4DMatic, providing a comprehensive hands-on experience in advanced drone mapping techniques. Cloud-Based Mapping Class is designed to give you a complete, hands-on experience with modern drone mapping techniques using Site Scan by Esri. Over the course of 1.5 intensive days, you'll learn how to create high-quality 2D maps, orthomosaics, and geo-referenced models while mastering the essential principles of data acquisition and processing We have classes in July, August and September, Click HERE to book your seat today !! On today's episode we discuss all about the best drones that pilots need to know to ensure they utilize the best drones for their business. We discuss specifics of the drone requirements pricing and features of American vs Chinese drones notably drones such as DJI, FreeFly Astro and other American offerings in the market. We also discuss best drones for specific use cases and share our list of the best drones for each use cases and why we believe the drones are best bang for the buck. Tune in today on this short information packed episode !! 5-Day Free Course: Thriving Drone Real Estate Business Transform your drone operations into a thriving real estate-focused business. Learn client management, pricing for profit, and creating high-value deliverables. Grow My Drone Business Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Click here for access to Skywatch for all your drone insurance purposes ! Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneuADU 1382: Build my own drone to do photogrammetry work? Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [2:09] - Learn all about Rob and Paul's recent travel and visit to Drone U events [6:39] - Right questions to ask to determine the best drone for your purpose [7:39] - FreeFlyAstro drones and their characteristics and which model is best for your requirement [11:59] - Best drones for mapping dams and bridges and into things [21:14] - Learn about the opportunities for American drones in the US [22:29] - Fixed wing drones and their advantages for data acquisition [27:12] - Comparison of FreeFly drones and DJI drones [30:42] - Drones for Confined space [37:00] - Drones that carry LiDAR [41:35] - New drones and their offerings for pilots and their limitations [45:52] - The one DJI drone we are excited about - Mini5 Pro

Want to start a drone business in 2025 and get paid to fly? This episode reveals how Keson Drayton turned a career layoff into a profitable freelance drone business—using hustle, mindset, and the “Costco effect” to win clients. From picking up a Phantom 4 to building D Flight Productions into a recognizable name across Denver, Keson shares how he went from zero bookings to full-time drone pilot, without outside funding, gear obsession, or shortcuts. Whether you're learning real estate drone photography, looking to land your first FAA Part 107 gig, or just tired of waiting for the “perfect time,” this is the roadmap you’ve been waiting for. In this episode, Keson explains: How he started a full-time drone pilot business from scartch Why real estate drone photography is still the best entry market How to find drone jobs using Zillow, outreach, and local leads What the Costco Effect means—and how it grows your business Why learning to edit your own footage is a superpower How to handle slow months and stay in the game The mindset required to build a brand and keep moving forward ? Want to Make Money Flying Drones? DroneU gives you the blueprint to start and grow a real drone business: ?? FAA Part 107 prep ?? 40+ courses on flight skills, real estate, mapping, and business ?? Pricing guides, client acquisition, and weekly coaching ?? Supportive community of top-tier drone pros ? Start here ? https://www.thedroneu.com ? Know someone ready to take the leap? Share this episode with them—they need to hear Keson’s story. Timestamps 00:00 – Meet Keson Drayton: engineer turned drone entrepreneur 07:00 – First drone (Phantom 4) + FAA airspace mistake ? early learning moment 16:00 – Laid off from corporate ? launched full-time drone career 25:00 – Launching D Flight Productions + getting FAA Part 107 certified 35:00 – How to get real estate drone clients using Zillow and direct outreach 43:00 – The “Costco Effect” for building brand awareness 50:00 – Mental health, motivation & staying focused as a solo drone pilot 55:00 – Daily growth habits: client follow-up, skill sharpening, FAA compliance 01:01:00 – Where to connect with Keson + booking drone jobs in Colorado ?Resources & Links Connect with Keson: ? Instagram – @dflightproductions ? TikTok – @DPKey (Drone Pilot Key) ? LinkedIn – Keson Drayton ? Book Drone Services – 720-477-0513 Stuck between a safe job and chasing your drone dream? ? Download our FREE Drone Pilot Starter Kit Includes: FAA checklist, pricing template, and plug-and-play proposal to help you land your first client with confidence. ??https://learn.thedroneu.com/bundles/drone-pilot-starter-kit ? Keep Watching ? More drone pilot success stories: Jason Flakes on storytelling and government gigs ? [insert link] Stay Connected ? Hit Like if you learned something new ? Subscribe and turn on notifications ? Share this with a pilot or creative stuck at a crossroads

Want to build a serious drone career in construction, VDC, or mapping? This episode explores how Brian Owens transformed construction workflows using drones and BIM models—and how you can profit from it. In this episode of Elevating Drone Life, Rob talks with Brian Owens, Field Solutions Lead at The Whites Company, about how high tech drones transform construction workflows, strengthen risk management, and elevate client communication. You'll learn how drone mapping, BIM drone integration, FPV flythroughs, and Gaussian splat models are setting a new industry standard. From mechanical engineer to construction drone innovator, Brian shares practical insights on turning drone expertise into a full-time career. He explains: How drone mapping fits into Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) workflows Which deliverables: orthomosaics, Gaussian splats, and FPV flythroughs build client trust Why polished drone media = higher client confidence + bigger contracts How drone data supports construction site safety, QA/QC, and real-time site inspections Career tips for becoming a professional drone pilot in construction This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed in the construction drone industry. Ready to Launch Your Construction Drone Career? Master construction drone mapping, build your business, and get certified to fly commercially—all in one place: Explore Courses + Memberships ? https://www.thedroneu.com Timestamps [00:00] Meet Brian Owens and his journey into construction tech [05:00] How FPV drones led to a career in construction VDC [10:00] What is Virtual Design and Construction (VDC)? [15:00] Essential tools: laser scanners, field printers, drones in construction [20:00] Using drones for site mapping, risk management, and QA/QC [28:00] Building a company-wide drone culture [35:00] Winning with better drone deliverables: orthomosaic mapping, Gaussian splats, and cinematic videos [45:00] Future of construction media: cinematic drone marketing + FPV flythroughs [52:00] Career advice: focus on client-ready deliverables, not just flying drones Resources & Links Drone U Membership – Join Here Drone Business Mastery Course – Explore Courses Part 107 Certification Prep – Start Here Experience Drone Training Event – Learn More Want to land your first construction drone job? Get our Drone Pilot Starter Kit Learn to Master the Skies and Build Your Confidence as a Drone Pilot. The Drone Starter Kit is a collection of 3 amazing courses worth $97 - all for free. https://learn.thedroneu.com/bundles/drone-pilot-starter-kit Stay Connected Like this episode if it helped Subscribe and turn on notifications for weekly expert interviews and tutorials Share this video with someone dreaming of a career in drones and construction tech and drones!

Want to grow your drone business, book high-paying contracts, and get FAA-authorized for restricted airspace? This episode reveals how Jason Flakes did it—step by step. In this episode of Elevating Drone Life, Rob talks with Jason Flakes, the award-winning founder of Visual 14, about how he turned a career setback into a thriving commercial drone business. You will discover how he uses cinematic storytelling, strategic proposals, and FAA-compliant flight operations to build his six figure drone business. From filming Amazon Prime documentaries to winning a 3-year aerial contract over a 16-mile metro line, Jason shares hard-won insights on: Pricing drone services with confidence Getting FAA authorization in restricted zones Submitting winning RFPs (and how to ask for a debrief) Capturing footage that looks like it came from a Hollywood set Turning raw content into recurring revenue Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, this episode is a masterclass in real-world drone success. Want to fly like a pro and get paid what you're worth? Discover 40+ industry-leading courses right from FAA Part 107 prep to advanced mapping, modelling and inspections. Go here ? https://www.thedroneu.com Timestamps: [00:00] Learn about our guest, Jason Flakes and his background [06:00] Laid off ? Launched business [13:00] From architecture to drone media [19:00] Discovering the power of drone storytelling [28:00] Behind the 3-year metro rail aerial contract [34:00] FAA drone rules explained (and how to build trust) [42:00] How to price drone jobs the smart way [48:00] Licensing, deliverables, and protecting your work [52:00] Gear talk: Mavic 3 Pro vs Inspire 2 + DJI ban [57:00] Upcoming documentaries and mindful filmmaking Resources & Links - Jason’s Website – https://visual14.com - Instagram – https://instagram.com/jasonflakes - Mocktail Monday – Buy the Book - TED Talk – Putting Hustle Culture to Rest ? Watch - The Hustle Equation – Buy on Amazon (replace with live link) Want free tools to jumpstart your drone career? Download our Drone Pilot Starter Kit Learn to Master the Skies and Build Your Confidence as a Drone Pilot. The Drone Starter Kit is a collection of 3 amazing courses worth $97 - all for free. https://learn.thedroneu.com/bundles/drone-pilot-starter-kit Stay Connected Like this episode if it helped Subscribe & turn on notifications for weekly pro tips Share this video with a friend who's trying to break into the drone industry #DroneBusiness #DroneFilmmaking #FAA107 #DronePilotLife #DroneContracts #StorytellingWithDrones

Can pilots secure profitable drone jobs in rural areas? What skills are required? Today's episode is brought to you by Drone U in-person training, a unique in-person training event that is focused on developing a holistic drone pilot, where you will be hands-on learning environment. Launching 2 new in-person mapping bootcamps that covers all aspects of mapping projects training you on softwares, flight missions, data acquisitions, desktop or laptop based processing, flight mastery and much much more. Reach out our Events page to book your seat today. On today's episode we discuss about opportunities for drone pilots in rural areas and how pilots can leverage these opportunities. Our question for today is from Robert who have moved recently to a rural area and is exploring opportunities for his drone business. Thank you for the question, Robert. We discuss if rural areas provide profitable opportunities for drone pilots and delve into domains that provide ample profits to drone pilots. We detailed nuanced opportunities for pilots and the top 3 opportunities along with providing detailed insight into such projects and what skills pilots would need for these projects. Tune in and get to know more about exploring drone opportunities in rural areas and more !! 5-Day Free Course: Thriving Drone Real Estate Business Transform your drone operations into a thriving real estate-focused business. Learn client management, pricing for profit, and creating high-value deliverables. Grow My Drone Business Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832. Click here for access to Skywatch for all your drone insurance purposes ! Become a Drone U Member. Access to over 30 courses, great resources, and our incredible community. Follow Us Site – https://thedroneu.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/droneu Instagram – https://instagram.com/thedroneu/ Twitter – https://twitter.com/thedroneu YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu Timestamps: [04:45] Learn more about Drone U's Mapping classes [07:20] Today's question on finding drone jobs in rural areas [08:00] What do rural areas offer drone pilots [09:06] Nuanced Opportunities for pilots - hunting, crop analysis [09:46] The top 3 opportunities for pilots [12:03] Real estate opportunities for large acreages [12:03] Real estate opportunities for large acreages [16:45] Inspection jobs for utilities companies in rural areas [17:55] Summary of top opportunities and notable mentions