What Private Club Leaders Need to Know Before Capturing Golf Course Drone Footage

Jan 15, 2025

In this discussion, Russell Bennett, a professional drone photographer passionate about golf course imagery, shares his journey from marketing to drone photography during COVID. He highlights the importance of high-quality drone footage for clubs and dives into key aspects like FAA licensing, shooting techniques, and creative strategies for effective course representation. Russell emphasizes how 4K technology enhances videography and the balance between aerial and traditional filming to create compelling visuals that truly showcase the beauty of golf courses.

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ADVICE

Licensing Requirements

Aspiring commercial drone pilots need an FAA Part 107 license, requiring a standardized test.
This license is valid for two years and involves understanding airspace classes and other technical aspects.

ADVICE

Airspace Restrictions

Proximity to airports significantly restricts drone usage, limiting flight height.
Permits can be obtained for such areas, and drones over 250 grams require registration.

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Professional vs. Amateur

Professional drone footage stands out through smooth filming, strategic angles, and thoughtful editing.
This contrasts with amateur footage, which often appears rushed and lacks refinement.

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In this episode, we talk with Russell Bennett, a professional drone photographer specializing in golf course imagery, about the technical and artistic aspects of capturing courses from above. From licensing requirements to creative techniques, Russ shares insights on how clubs can best utilize drone photography to showcase their facilities.

Key Moments:

Discussing Drone Sightings [00:03:00]: Before diving in, Russ discusses his perspective of seeing drones in the recent news.
Getting Started in Drone Photography [00:03:45]: Russ discusses his transition from marketing to drone photography during COVID, starting with golf courses due to his passion for the game.
Course Representation [05:30:00]: Conversation about the importance of quality drone footage in representing a club professionally versus settling for basic aerial shots.
Licensing and Regulations [06:30:42]: Overview of FAA Part 107 licensing requirements for commercial drone pilots and important airspace restrictions near airports.
Shooting Heights and Techniques [15:08:00]: Insights into flying heights and creative techniques for capturing engaging course footage, including low-altitude shots for dramatic effect.
Technical Equipment Insights [17:16:18]: Russ explains different types of drones, focusing on the DJI Mavic Air 2S for cinematic shots and the DJI FPV for dynamic fast-moving footage.
Drone Versus Handheld Videography [19:44:00]: Discussing finding a balance between using drone shots versus handheld gimbal shots.
Shooting Strategy and Timing [23:16:00]: Details about optimal shooting times, with cinematic footage best captured during golden hour and technical hole-by-hole footage during midday.
Working Around Golfers [24:55:00]: Discussion of strategies for filming while the course is active and considerations for capturing footage with or without players present.
Multiple Day Advantages [27:12:00]: Discussion of why multiple shooting days are beneficial for capturing the best possible footage and ensuring complete coverage.
Investment Value [29:16:00]: Explanation of why professional drone footage is a worthwhile investment for clubs, potentially lasting for years on their website and marketing materials.
Questions to Ask a Drone Photographer Before Hiring [31:45:00]: Russ suggests asking photographers for samples of the artist's previous work alongside shot-specific insights.
Final Thoughts [32:35:00]: Final thoughts are shared and Russ shares his profile, @birds_eye_film (Instagram), alongside his email: Russell.birdseyeview@gmail.com.