Drones are changing the way we interact with the world, and—with one of their key applications being aerial photography—the way we look at it. Stills and videos that once required an aircraft charter are now being shot with a drone carried in a backpack. Over 1.5 million posts on Instagram are tagged with #drone. This book takes the view that successful drone photography is all about the shot, not the drone. So, while the reader is equipped with an essential introduction to drone technology, flying skills, safety measures, and legal requirements, author Fergus Kennedy demonstrates how the skills of planning, composition, lighting, focus, and exposure remain essential to capturing great images. He shows how to transfer camera tools and technique from ground to air to achieve outstanding overhead, panoramic, and 360º shots; and how to master gimbal and other skills to bring depth and movement to video tracking shots. Applications from 3D mapping and modeling to landscape and travel photography are covered, demonstrating the range of markets and creative possibilities available to the professional drone photographer. This book is an essential guide to elevating the art of your photography to dizzying new heights.
I was extremely disappointed with this book. It wasn’t a Master Class. It was extremely basic. I learned very little from the book; however, it has great pictures in it. It is mostly pictures very little written material for the number of pages. You are 98 pages into the book before it even starts to talk about photography and only top-level discussions at that. The first half is all about drones, assuming you know nothing about them. Two chapters are only applicable if you live outside the US. So, if you’re already a UAS pilot, the first half of the book is a waste of time.
If you know nothing about drones or photography, this book might inspire you to take up the hobby. Otherwise, pass.
The book was a reasonable introduction to considerations when using drones for photography and video. Broad, but not deep. I did learn a few things while reading it but ultimately was disappointed given it was pitched as a masterclass. If you are going to read this make sure you have the right level of expectations.