Aerial Photography and Videography Using Drones

I brought this book due to the background of Mr Cheng. I was hopeful to find detailed informations and techniques about aerial photography and videography. But unfortunately, I have been very disappointed. Except for Chapter 2: learning to fly, there is nothing that you can't find in 3-4 hours searching the web.For exemple, in chapter one: equipment there is a (small) paragraph on vibration dampeners. It explain that: 1) it's suppress vibration 2) it links the gimbal to the drone. But there is not a word about what the diference between A40, 40°, or 50° dampeners that came with the gimbal. Which one should I use in which situation was THE information I was looking for!Same thing about balancing propellers: the book underline how it is critical but there is not even an introduction about how to do it.Worst: the paragraph about the Ricoh GR camera explains it is awesome to take picture with it, and ask the reader to check the web site of the author which didn't give any information as too how to connect it!!!So, I paid 36$ to be asked to google every useful information?And so it goes: chapter 3 is more about photography techniques than about aerial photography techniques (there is just a small paragraph about height and point of view), and virtually nothing about photogrammetry (which height, sunlight, camera angle, etc... are better)Chapter 4: Aerial Videography: I'll help you on this one: just buy a gimbal, watch this video (https://vimeo.com/blog/post/frame-rate-vs-shutter-speed-setting-the-record-str) and google "tilt up/down", "orbit", and "crane up/down". That's all.Chapter 5 is useless as it give you information about equipment (you hoped you had learn more in the book but didn't...), the place of the shot, and an explanation about the photo, but not about why it has been taken this way, what was the technical issue that has been overcomes, etc...Chapter 6: don't bother to read it, just check your airlines and your country regulation.I am very sad to write a so negative review, but I was really hopeful that which all his experience, Mr Cheng teaches it's reader a lot more. The book is just an introduction.

This is quite simply a must read for anyone serious about getting the most out of their drones and using them for photography or videography. Full of useful information and the flying exercises are an absolute must. If I had to be critical of this book it would have to be the fact that in regard to regulations most of the info on that has little use for those that are not based or do not plan to use a drone in the USA. The chapters regarding this matter are mostly or even only about US regulations.Much of the info can be applied to other places such as taking care in proximity to airports etc. But this is a small gripe. Also I would have liked to get more info on the images that are in the book, it would have been nice to know more detailed information regarding conditions, weather, lightlevels etc. But again this is just nitpicking on my part. Overall this is a must read for every drone shooter that wants the most out of every flight and wants to fly safely and take good care of their equipment.

Great book! Although I already have experience flying and shooting with a quadrocopter, but it was more like training. In order to be able to show your photos and videos to friends or other people, you need good quality shooting and editing. And also good music and script.In the book everything is described and examples of photographs of the author are given.It is also interesting that the introduction to the book was written by Adam Savage himself, known as Mythsbusters co-host.I recommend to read this book. You'll do not waste the time and money. Learn a lot of useful things. And the book can be your drone operator handbook.Thanks the author!

The best book about using drones for aerial imaging…aka taking pictures from the sky! Eric Cheng is both a techno-wizard and creative artist, turns out he writes well too. This book is good news for DJI Phantom and Inspire owners. Even though Eric goes to great lengths to display even-handedness to other drone manufacturers (Parrot, 3DR, Yuneec), most of us are DJI customers and Eric gives very specific advice and examples as if the audience is using a DJI product. Note: You are still going to need to read the User Manual for your drone as well as visit the FAA’s Know Before You Fly website, but once you do, this book will get you started making dope YouTube videos and perhaps a flyover clip of a property for a real estate listing. Don’t accept money for your videos though, at least in the US. For that, as Eric details in his section on current regulation, you’ll need to ask the FAA for special permission. Like I said, best book in the space.

This is a great book for those new to drones and aerial photography and videography. In fact, I can't think of a better introductory book. Unfortunately, I purchased the book expecting a more advanced discussion of aerial photography and videography. Instead, much of the book focuses on such fundamentals as how to select and fly a drone as well as a description of the individual components (drone, controller, gimbal, camera, batteries, etc.) IMHO, this book is likely too basic for anyone with even modest drone experience. However, again, if you're new to drones, this is a great introduction.

Thank for your book, being a first time drone owner. After reading your book, it inspired me of things that I can add to my business portfolio. I am particularly interested in the concept of Chapter 5, to capture the breathtaking shots of my beautiful Island and probably printing a book with a difference perspective of my island, "From the sky". You have truly inspired me to do this. Hope to purchase more of your books to guide my path into my new life of Aerial Photography. Truly remarkable work and have been a fun watching Myth Busters.

Not as good as I thought it would be after all the hype.

Great book. Everyone can take something from it, it covers all aspects of aerial photography using drones.

Inspiring!

La experiencia de Eric Cheng, unida a la claridad de sus exposiciones hacen este libro ameno, fácil de leer y sobre todo, contiene las más importantes guías y valiosos consejos para quien se dedique a la aerofotografía usando drones, ya sea como afición o como actividad profesional. Útil tanto para pilotos iniciados como para quienes aún no poseen las destrezas necesarias para pilotar un dron.

Eric has provided relevant information in an easy to understand manner. The photo section is inspiring for both video and still photography using a drone. The practice exercises are useful especially for beginners. This quality book is a keeper.