Aerial photography: 3 things the summer heat must not make us forget

The heat can make us forget some small rules, from common sense to the laws in force.

No need to state the obvious, also out of respect for those stuck in the office. Summer has brought its great heat, and for the luckier ones the beach season has begun!

The crystal-clear sea, crowded beaches, outdoor aperitifs and village festivals are all scenes that photography lovers, and aerial photography lovers in particular, go crazy for. Not only that: at this time of year, those who make a living selling their shots to travel agencies, bloggers, magazines and advertising agencies, both virtual and traditional, manage to increase their revenue because this type of photo is in high demand.

Now let's focus on a few recommendations and mistakes to avoid, because summer and the heat sometimes make us lose touch with reality, with what is appropriate and, above all, with what is legal.

1 - Respect the law

For those who shoot promotional photos and videos using a drone, remember that:

• beaches, festivals, crowded places and urban centres are critical areas and it is not possible to film with drones unless you hold special permits from ENAC;
• to fly a drone, even if the beach is empty, you need ENAC recognition (for both the pilot and the drone);
• if you don't comply with the two rules above, even a client may incur administrative penalties (while the pilot may also face criminal charges).

You may also be interested in the article Do you need a 'drone pilot'? Here are 3 things you need to know

2 - Use common sense

A drone is not the only way to take aerial photos and videos. There are many other ways, as written in this piece. Among them, we are particularly fond of telescopic poles. Lightweight, inexpensive and suitable for any type of area, they have no legal drawbacks and are perfect for outdoor panoramic shots. Indispensable for professional aerial photography enthusiasts.
Moreover, they are less intrusive than aircraft when shooting in areas with many people, who might find a drone flight particularly invasive.

3 - Observe good manners

Following on from the second point, there is a thin line separating the issue of privacy from simple good manners.
Always remember that if you take a video or photo that you will then sell or share on any social network or on your private website, every person depicted must be aware of it. If the person filmed comes across their portrait in a shot of yours published online, they could sue you and win.
Our advice is not to take random shots, but to decide on spaces and settings and think carefully before pressing the "trigger".
Do you think that couple standing with their backs to us at the water's edge would make a particularly beautiful portrait? Fine, approach them with a smile and plenty of good manners and ask their permission to photograph them (and get their address so you can give them the photo as a gift).

Always carry a release form with you, especially when photographing minors.

True, put like this everything gets more complicated, but every job well done requires care, commitment and a bit more thought before every click, which can only add to its beauty.