Drone Drama: Don't Crash Your Shoot

Flying a drone is a thrill—until it isn’t. We’ve seen it all, so here’s a quick-fire list of the rookie mistakes that turn cinematic dreams into dramatic fails:

1. “Weather Schmeather”

Your drone doesn’t care about your confidence—or your disappointment in rescheduling. Physics, on the other hand…yeah, check before you fly.

(Check the weather → smooth, cinematic shots without unexpected drama.)

2. “What Flight Plan?”

Winging it is great for improv comedy (well…sometimes—with apologies to my cousin). It’s nearly always terrible for drones. Plan your route to avoid trees, poles, and heartbreak.

(A little planning = stress-free shots.)

3. “Gear Graveyard” Syndrome

Bent props, cracked arms, scratched shells…we’ve seen the aftermath. Your drone isn’t indestructible. If your model didn’t come with a maintenance schedule, it’s on you to make one—and stick to it.

(Regular maintenance = a happy drone and longer lifespan.)

4. “Battery Roulette”

Flying on a half-charge or cold battery can lead to a fast free-fall. Always check, always charge, always carry spares—and factor battery life into your shot list.

(Fully charged battery → uninterrupted epic shots.)

5. “People (Mostly) Don’t Like a Show-Off”

Close to crowds, over water, near property lines? That’s a quick way to go from hero to headline. Save the risk-taking for your new hair cut or outfit this weekend, not your flight.

(Fly safe → everyone’s happy, including your drone.)