Drone Resources

The Fleet

I currently have three drone models in the fleet:

DJI Neo - this sub-250gram drone can go anywhere. It's smaller than it appears in photo because of perspective. The current one is Gnat and it is far tougher than an actual gnat which makes it great to do some tracking videos when out and about. I most often use it without any controller and just the built-in features. While it is 4K but sensor is only 1/2" so low light isn't good. It's bounced into a lot of things and gets back up each time.
DJI Mini Pro - Snoopy I is a Mini Pro 3 model, 4K and packs very well in my sling bag, along with a controller. Is challenged by wind gusts so limited by weather at times, but lots of good features. Hope to upgrade to Mini Pro 5 in future.
DJI Mavic Pro - Merlin is a Mavic 4 Pro. It stretched the budget but is a wonderful drone that flies smooth even in windy conditions. With three camera lenses, you have flexibility. It also supports waypoints, cruise control, and 360-degree. A bit big for the sling bag and hiking any distance.

Certification

I currently have my TRUST certification which is required for recreational flying, but am studying for my Part 107 test which is required for non-recreational flying, or what some call commericial certification. Getting the Part 107 opens up more opportunities in terms of capturing footage and information for other people as well as fewer restrictions on where and when I can fly. If I ever wanted to monetize the platform, having the Part 107 certification would be required.

If you're intersted in drones and want more information, I'd be happy to discuss with you and share what I've learned.

Different World

It's been amazing to see the world from the bird's eye view. It opens up a whole new sense of understanding and wonder. Flying at the IBM Glen in fall, noticing patches of different color leaves and then wanted to understand what that one tree with the bright red is in the patch of orange. Seeing very straight 'streams' near the Susquehanna River and learning they might be remnants of the Owego Canal. Noticing 'trails' through the water in a pond and making a note to see if there are beaver or muskrats in that area.

And, I hope at times some of the footage has allowed you to feel like you are there with me on some of my wanderings.

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