March 7, 2026 • By Jeevan Ambati
Booking a drone photography session is exciting — but a little preparation goes a long way toward getting the best results. Whether you're a real estate agent scheduling an aerial shoot or a business owner capturing your facility from above, here's what you need to know before your session.
Choose the Right Time of Day
Lighting makes or breaks aerial photography. Early morning and late afternoon — the “golden hour” — produce warm, flattering light that makes any property look its best. Avoid booking midday sessions in summer when harsh overhead light creates flat, washed-out images. We will work with you to identify the optimal window based on your property's orientation and the season.
Check the Weather
Drone flights require calm conditions. Wind gusts above 15-20 mph affect stability and image quality, and precipitation grounds all flights. At Higher Ground Drone Services, we monitor conditions closely before every shoot. If the weather is not cooperating, we will reschedule at no extra charge — safety always comes first.
Prepare the Property
For real estate shoots:
- Mow the lawn and tidy up the yard the day before
- Move vehicles out of driveways if possible, or arrange them neatly
- Remove temporary clutter — garbage cans, equipment, or out-of-place patio furniture
- Ensure the exterior is as clean and camera-ready as possible
For commercial or event shoots, let us know in advance about any restricted zones, sensitive areas, or specific angles you want to highlight or avoid.
FAA Regulations — We Handle It
Commercial drone operations in the United States require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Our pilot holds this certification and carries liability insurance, so you are fully covered. We handle all regulatory compliance — you do not need to worry about airspace clearances or permits for standard shoots.
What to Expect Day-Of
Our shoots are efficient. Most residential real estate sessions take 30-60 minutes on location. We capture all angles, altitudes, and compositions needed, then deliver edited photos and video within 48-72 hours. You will receive a shareable link to download your final files — ready to upload to MLS, your website, or social media.
Ready to Book Your Session?
Serving Fox Valley, WI — Appleton, Neenah, Oshkosh, Green Bay, and surrounding communities.