Best Side Hustles for Drone Photography
Drone photography is an exciting and rapidly growing field that allows you to capture stunning aerial shots and videos.
If you're in Canada and looking for a side hustle with the potential for high income, drone photography might be the perfect opportunity. This blog post explores the best drone photography side hustles for Canadians, including income potential, tools, resources, and links to help you get started.
1. Aerial Real Estate Photography
Description
Aerial real estate photography is one of the most lucrative drone photography side hustles. Real estate agents are increasingly relying on drones to capture high-quality aerial shots of properties for sale. These images can provide a unique perspective of homes, land, and commercial buildings, helping them stand out in a competitive market.
Income Potential
Aerial real estate photographers in Canada can earn anywhere from $200 to $1,500 per project, depending on the property's size and the complexity of the shoot. High-end properties or real estate agencies that require regular work can bring in more consistent income.
Tools and Resources
- Drones: DJI Mavic Air 2, DJI Phantom 4 Pro, and DJI Inspire 2 are excellent options.
- Editing Software: Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, and Final Cut Pro.
- Course/Resources:
Links to Get Started
2. Drone Videography for Events
Description
Drones are becoming increasingly popular for shooting videos at events like weddings, corporate functions, outdoor festivals, and sports events. Capturing aerial views and dynamic footage that traditional photographers can't access gives your work an edge.
Income Potential
Drone videography for events can range from $500 to $3,000 per event, depending on the duration and the level of customization required. Wedding shoots often come with high-demand pricing, especially if you include highlight reels and full-length films.
Tools and Resources
- Drones: DJI Mavic 3, DJI Air 2S, and Autel EVO II Pro.
- Editing Software: Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro.
- Course/Resources:
Links to Get Started
3. Agricultural Aerial Surveys
Description
Drones are revolutionizing the agriculture industry by providing farmers with the ability to conduct aerial surveys of crops, fields, and livestock. Drones equipped with multispectral cameras can help farmers assess crop health, irrigation efficiency, and monitor pests.
Income Potential
This side hustle can bring in $500 to $2,500 per project, depending on the size of the farm and the survey's complexity. Regular clients in agricultural areas can lead to consistent work.
Tools and Resources
- Drones: DJI Phantom 4 Multispectral, Parrot Anafi USA.
- Specialized Software: DroneDeploy, Pix4D, and Agisoft Metashape.
- Course/Resources:
Links to Get Started
4. Search and Rescue Support
Description
Drones are also used in search and rescue (SAR) operations to locate missing persons or survey disaster-stricken areas. This side hustle involves working with local authorities, emergency teams, or volunteering for search missions.
Income Potential
While search and rescue operations may not always be paid, you can earn $200 to $1,000 per mission when hired by agencies or emergency groups. Some may also offer stipends for assisting in volunteer work.
Tools and Resources
- Drones: DJI Matrice 300 RTK, Skydio 2.
- Software: DJI Pilot, DroneLogbook, and Airdata UAV.
- Course/Resources:
Links to Get Started
5. Drone Mapping and Surveying
Description
Aerial mapping and surveying is a highly technical drone photography side hustle that involves creating detailed maps or 3D models of land or construction sites. These services are especially valuable in construction, mining, and infrastructure sectors.
Income Potential
Drone mappers and surveyors can earn between $1,000 and $5,000 per project, depending on the size of the area being mapped and the software used to generate the models. There is potential for long-term contracts with businesses that require regular mapping services.
Tools and Resources
- Drones: DJI Matrice 600, SenseFly eBee X.
- Mapping Software: DroneDeploy, Pix4D, Propeller Aero.
- Course/Resources:
Links to Get Started
6. Drone Photography for Tourism and Travel
Description
Tourism and travel photography can be a great niche for drone photographers, especially in scenic areas of Canada. Many travel bloggers, tour companies, and tourism boards seek high-quality aerial shots of destinations.
Income Potential
Tourism drone photography can pay between $200 and $1,500 per project, depending on the location and complexity of the shoot. Some high-profile tourism projects can pay more, especially if they involve national or international exposure.
Tools and Resources
- Drones: DJI Mavic Mini 2, DJI Air 2S, Autel EVO Lite+.
- Editing Software: Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop.
- Course/Resources:
Links to Get Started
- Tourism Photography Jobs on Travel Photography Jobs
- Freelance Drone Photography for Tourism on Freelancer
Conclusion
Drone photography is a versatile and high-paying side hustle for Canadians, offering opportunities in real estate, events, agriculture, search and rescue, mapping, and tourism. With the right tools, training, and dedication, you can turn your passion for drone flying into a profitable venture. Whether you're looking for a part-time gig or a full-fledged business, the demand for drone services is growing across the country.
Get Started Today!
Check out the resources, tools, and links provided in this guide to kickstart your drone photography side hustle. Happy flying!