Phoenix Drone Pros
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phoenixdronepros • October 7, 2023
Navigating the Skyline: Best Practices for Hiring a Drone Pilot in Phoenix, Arizona for Your Real Estate Shoot
It's crucial to hire a skilled and reliable drone pilot in Phoenix, Arizona. In this blog post, we'll outline the best practices for finding and hiring the right drone pilot for your real estate shoot.

In the dynamic world of real estate, where a picture can truly be worth a thousand words, the use of drone photography has become a game-changer. Aerial views offer potential buyers a unique perspective on properties, showcasing their features and surroundings in stunning detail. However, to make the most of this technology, it's crucial to hire a skilled and reliable drone pilot in Phoenix, Arizona. In this blog post, we'll outline the best practices for finding and hiring the right drone pilot for your real estate shoot.
1. Verify Credentials and Licensing:
The first step in hiring a drone pilot is ensuring they are properly licensed and certified. In the United States, drone pilots must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This certification ensures they have a clear understanding of airspace regulations and safety protocols. Ask for proof of their FAA certification and check its validity.
2. Review Their Portfolio:
A professional drone pilot should have a portfolio showcasing their previous real estate projects. Reviewing their work will give you insight into their skills, style, and the quality of their aerial photography. Pay attention to the clarity, composition, and overall visual appeal of their shots.
3. Check for Insurance:
Safety should always be a top priority. Ensure the drone pilot has liability insurance coverage. This protects both you and the pilot in case of accidents or damage during the shoot.
4. Seek Recommendations:
Word of mouth can be a valuable resource when searching for a drone pilot. Ask for recommendations from colleagues in the real estate industry or from others who have used drone services in the area. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into a pilot's professionalism and reliability.
5. Evaluate Equipment and Technology:
The quality of the drone and camera equipment used can significantly impact the outcome of your real estate shoot. Inquire about the type of drones and cameras the pilot uses. Modern, high-resolution cameras and advanced drone technology will yield the best results.
6. Discuss Pricing and Contracts:
Clearly define your budget and discuss pricing with the drone pilot upfront. Ensure there are no hidden costs, and everything is outlined in a written contract. This contract should also specify the scope of work, the timeline for the shoot, and any post-production services.
7. Communication is Key:
Effective communication is essential for a successful real estate shoot. Discuss your vision, expectations, and any specific shots or angles you want in detail with the pilot. A good pilot should be receptive to your ideas and offer professional advice to enhance the final result.
8. Plan the Shoot:
Work with the pilot to plan the shoot day. Discuss the best time for optimal lighting, weather considerations, and any permits that may be required for the location. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and efficient shoot.
Conclusion:
Hiring a skilled drone pilot in Phoenix, Arizona for your real estate shoot can elevate your property listings and attract potential buyers. By following these best practices, you can confidently select a professional who will provide high-quality aerial photography, adhere to safety standards, and help you showcase your properties in the best possible light.
Remember, the right drone pilot can be a valuable asset in your real estate marketing efforts, providing you with stunning visuals that set your listings apart from the competition.

Colleen, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin? The journey of Phoenix Drone Pros began when Robert Biggs, a tech enthusiast and avid photographer, first laid eyes on drone technology. Fascinated by the potential of capturing breathtaking imagery from the skies, Robert delved deep into the world of drones, honing his skills and mastering the art of aerial photography and videography. In 2015, with a keen eye for innovation and a drive to share his passion with the world, Robert officially established Phoenix Drone Pros. The name “Phoenix” symbolizes rebirth and renewal and reflects the soaring capabilities of the drones that would soon take flight under his expert guidance. From the outset, Robert set out to create a company that would stand apart from the competition by offering unmatched expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and personalized service. He envisioned Phoenix Drone Pros as a one-stop solution for businesses seeking exceptional aerial imagery, whether for real estate, construction, search and rescue, cinematography, or any other industry that could benefit from a new perspective. Fast-forward to today, Phoenix Drone Pros is expanding in its 10th year of business in Franchising. Colleen Biggs, Robert’s devoted wife, brings her heart and expertise to this journey. With over 18 years in the Franchise Industry, she has been a steadfast advocate for franchisees, guiding them through every step of launching their businesses. From territory analysis and staffing to marketing, lease negotiations, training, and leadership development, Colleen has been there, helping others realize their dreams. Her experiences during challenging times in 2001 and 2008 have equipped her with the skills to build resilient, recession-proof businesses. Colleen’s passion has always been rooted in supporting franchisees and ensuring their success. Through her journey, she learned valuable lessons about what works and what doesn’t, always prioritizing transparency and honesty. At Phoenix Drone Pros, we embody these values, nurturing a community where our franchisees feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive. Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way? Like any business, our journey has been shaped by both successes and setbacks—each one a valuable learning experience. When we first started, drones were a relatively new and misunderstood technology. Back then, it wasn’t uncommon to face unexpected challenges, like having a drone shot out of the sky while filming a property or dealing with upset neighbors convinced we were invading their privacy. Those early days taught us the importance of educating our clients and the public about how drones are used and the value they bring. Over time, as awareness and acceptance of drone technology grew, so did our business. We started by working with residential real estate agents, capturing stunning aerial views that helped homes sell faster. But as we refined our skills and invested in cutting-edge equipment, new opportunities emerged. Today, we’re proud to work on much larger-scale projects, partnering with solar farms, construction companies, and commercial real estate firms to deliver professional-grade aerial data and visuals. Each of these “bumps in the road” taught us resilience, adaptability, and the importance of clear communication. By overcoming early misconceptions, we’ve built a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and delivering exceptional results. These challenges didn’t just shape our business—they strengthened it, allowing us to soar to new heights. Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others? Phoenix Drone Pros: Elevating Your Vision from the Sky At Phoenix Drone Pros, we specialize in delivering high-quality drone services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. With a team of experienced and FAA-licensed pilots, cutting-edge technology, and a passion for innovation, we provide stunning aerial footage, comprehensive inspections, and a variety of other drone solutions. What We Do Our services span a wide range of industries, from commercial real estate and raw land development to solar inspections, weddings, and even search and rescue missions. Whether you’re a homeowner needing a roof inspection or a business owner seeking captivating aerial content, we bring expertise, precision, and creativity to every project. What Sets Us Apart What makes Phoenix Drone Pros stand out is our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our advanced drone technology allows us to capture areas that are often hard to reach, delivering detailed and accurate visuals that empower our clients to make informed decisions. We pride ourselves on offering: