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Aerial Photography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Miami, FL

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

New York, NY

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Seattle, WA

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Dallas, TX

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

New York, NY

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Dallas, TX

Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA regulations and safety ...

GRW Engineers, Inc.

Survey Technician

Lexington, KY · On-site

$25K - $45K/mo

Join an expert staff of registered professional engineers, architects, surveyors, geodesists, cartographers, and data programmers skilled in all aspects of engineering, surveying, aerial photography ...

GRW

Survey Technician

Lexington, KY · On-site

$25K - $45K/mo

Join an expert staff of registered professional engineers, architects, surveyors, geodesists, cartographers, and data programmers skilled in all aspects of engineering, surveying, aerial photography ...

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Aerial Photography information

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How much do aerial photography jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial photography in the United States is $20.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is aerial photography?

Aerial photography is the process of taking photographs from an elevated position, usually using aircrafts, drones, balloons, or other flying objects. It is commonly used for mapping, surveying land, real estate, environmental studies, and creative imaging. This type of photography provides a unique perspective that cannot be captured from the ground, making it valuable for a variety of industries. Aerial photographers need specialized skills and equipment to safely and effectively capture high-quality images from above.

What Are Aerial Photography Jobs?

The primary job in aerial photography is an aerial photographer. Some jobs in aerial photography include operating helicopters, planes, and drones to allow the photographer to capture the photos. As a photographer, you take your camera on one of these vehicles to get shots for news reports and other media. You can take photos of anything from the landscape, to homes, to various structures in the area. To perform your duties, you should have good vision and manual dexterity. In addition to taking photos, your responsibilities include using editing software, locating photo opportunities, and knowing the limitations of aerial photography, such as not always getting a close-up shot.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerial Photographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerial Photographer, you need expertise in photography principles, drone operation, and a solid understanding of aviation safety regulations, often supported by a remote pilot certification. Familiarity with drones, aerial imaging software, and post-processing tools like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong spatial awareness are standout soft skills in this field. These skills ensure high-quality, safe, and innovative aerial imagery that meets client needs and legal requirements.

What is the difference between Aerial Photography vs Drone Photographer?

AspectAerial PhotographyDrone Photographer
CredentialsPhotography certifications, FAA drone licenses (if applicable)Photography certifications, FAA drone licenses
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, high altitudes, various terrainsOutdoor, often urban or rural areas, using drones
Industry UsageReal estate, film, surveying, mappingReal estate, events, inspections, videography

Both roles involve capturing images from the air, but aerial photography generally refers to traditional methods like helicopters or planes, while drone photographers specifically use drones. The skills, certifications, and work environments overlap significantly, making them closely related but distinct roles in the aerial imaging industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in aerial photography, and how can they be addressed?

Aerial photographers often face challenges such as unpredictable weather, technical equipment issues, and navigating legal restrictions regarding airspace and drone usage. Planning shoots with backup dates, regularly maintaining equipment, and staying updated on relevant aviation and drone regulations can help overcome these obstacles. Additionally, effective communication with clients and team members ensures everyone is aligned on safety protocols and project objectives, resulting in smoother operations and successful shoots.
More about Aerial Photography jobs
What cities are hiring for Aerial Photography jobs? Cities with the most Aerial Photography job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerial Photography jobs? The most popular types of Aerial Photography jobs are:
What states have the most Aerial Photography jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerial Photography jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aerial Photography jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aerial Photography jobs are:
Aerial Photography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Photography job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Drone Pilot

TSMG

Miami, FL

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and certified Drone Pilot to operate and manage drone operations for various projects. As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting skills, and the ability to analyze aerial data. 

Your key responsibilities will include flying drones for purposes such as surveying, mapping, inspection, and videography.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections.
  • Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition.
  • Follow all FAA regulations and safety guidelines during drone operations.
  • Plan flight paths and adjust them as necessary based on environmental conditions.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret aerial data for reporting and project needs.
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure project goals are met.
  • Maintain detailed records of flights, including time, locations, and data collected.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on drone equipment.
  • Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and regulations related to drone operations.
Qualifications:
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or equivalent).
  • Proven experience operating drones in various settings.
  • Strong technical knowledge of drone systems and software (e.g., mapping and modeling software).
  • Excellent spatial awareness and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to analyze data and present findings clearly.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with specific drone models (e.g., DJI, Parrot).
  • Knowledge of photogrammetry and GIS applications.
  • Previous experience in (e.g., construction, agriculture, film).
We would be happy to get to know you and your skills better and see how we can support each other's growth.

Please apply and let's meet!
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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