Advice

A Beginner’s Guide to Flying a Drone Safely and Legally

Scottish drone production company Notion Aerials share their top tips and essential advice on drone flying, capturing the best shots, and how to avoid losing your drone on the wrong side of a mountain...

We’ve all heard stories about someone who’s had a drone stuck on a mountain ledge somewhere, or has crashed it camera-first into a tree… right? Well, we’re writing this piece to help you not be that someone.

But who are we? We’re Notion Aerials, a Scottish drone production company consisting of aerial producer Holly Burns, and myself Jordan Tiernan.

I’m the lead drone operator here at Notional Aerials, and have been flying drones for nearly a decade. While living in the French Alps and in Queenstown, New Zealand, Holly and I spent as much time as we could skiing and winter climbing in the mountains, documenting our adventures along the way, and what started out as a hobby and a means to document our adventures in the outdoors has now turned into a professional career.

We embarked on a joint venture to create Notion Aerials together, offering drone filming in Scotland, the UK, and beyond. So far we’ve worked on a wide range of global commercial campaigns with an amazing array of clients including Jaguar Land Rover, Porsche, Hilton Hotels, Newcastle United Football Club, and The North Face.

But that’s enough about us. Onto the subject of this article: drone flying for beginners.

Top Tips On Drone Flying

Drones have come a long way since we started flying. They’re getting smaller, lighter and recreational drones can now pretty much fit in the palm of your hand. There are also loads of options under 250g nowadays which offer fantastic image quality for non-commercial use too.

While most people document their adventures on the trusty phone camera that lives in their pocket – or maybe you have a GoPro or a point-and-shoot that you bring along – drones offer a different perspective. Especially if you’re in the mountains or on a big expansive loch, drones can show you views you might never see on foot.

So what do you need to know to get the most out of this bit of tech? Here are our top tips on drone flying for beginners.

1. Know the Drone Code

For flying drones (and other unmanned aircraft systems) outdoors, you must read and follow the ‘Drone Code’ written by the Civil Aviation Authority.

First things first, if you’re flying a drone below 250g with a camera, you’ll need a Flyer ID. And if you’re flying a drone that’s 250g or above, you’ll also need an Operator ID. To obtain a Flyer ID you must pass the CAA’s official theory test. The Drone Code will tell you all you need to know to pass the test.

Remember, you are responsible for flying safely and legally wherever and whenever you fly. You can read the full Drone Code on the Civil Aviation Authority website.

2. Check local regulations

Being in the outdoors can often feel remote but rules and regulations still apply to drone flying. Try using Altitude Angel or DJI FlySafe to help you check for restricted or warning zone areas. For example, even though it may feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, many mountainous areas are also sites of special scientific interest (SSSIs). These areas can be protected and you often need permission to fly.

Different countries have different drone rules and regulations so always ensure that you check the country-specific aviation authority website for what applies to you. In the UK, the maximum altitude is 400ft (120m) and you must have the land owner’s permission to take off and land on private land.

3. Check the weather forecast

Always remember to check the local weather reports, but most importantly, the wind speeds. If you’re flying a lightweight drone, you really don’t want to send it up and watch it sail off into the sunset. Think about wind direction too. Wind and temperature can affect the battery life. For example, you might send your drone off with the wind at its back, but when it’s coming back against the wind, this will drain your battery. So make sure to factor in the distance and wind direction for your return home.

4. Practice makes perfect

Don’t head off to complete the Cape Wrath Trail with your drone fresh out of the packaging. Your first flight with your drone should be somewhere spacious but secure – like a large park or a field. Somewhere where you can safely take off, ensuring the drone remains within your line of sight. This will give you the opportunity to test the functionality, helping you become familiar with its movements, settings and handling before heading off anywhere more remote.

5. Watch out for birds or manned aircraft in the sky

This is particularly important when filming in coastal locations due to the amount of seagulls and sea birds in the area. Speaking from experience, seagulls have a tendency to be inquisitive and they can sometimes scarily swoop towards your drone. So, always have eyes on the drone and be ready to lose altitude and bring the drone back to prevent a bird strike.

In the mountains, mountain rescue helicopters and RAF fighter jets can operate at low altitudes. This type of manned aircraft can often come without warning so make sure you are listening as well as watching and, most importantly, always keep your drone within visual line of sight (VLOS).

6. Make the most of golden hour

By getting our at sunrise or sunset, you’ll get some of the best light nature has to offer. This can really give your aerial photography/ videography a wow factor that sets it apart from the rest. There’ll often be less people around too, so no randoms in your shots. You’re also less likely to annoy people by buzzing around when they’re trying to enjoy the tranquility of nature – win win!

7. Have fun!

Aerial photography and videography is all about being creative and putting your own mark on your work. Try out different moves and angles and check out other drone operators’ work for inspiration.

See you out there!