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Drone Pilot Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Dallas, TX · On-site

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

New York, NY

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Seattle, WA

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Chicago, IL

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Miami, FL

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Seattle, WA

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

New York, NY

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Miami, FL · On-site

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

TSMG

Drone Pilot

Dallas, TX

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Operate drones for aerial photography, videography, surveying, and inspections. * Conduct pre ...

San Antonio Spurs

Drone Pilot

Midland, TX · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

The Drone Pilot will travel regularly to active project sites in the West Texas area, coordinate ... Travel to active data center construction sites to capture aerial photography and video of project ...

Bees360 Inc

1099 Drone Pilot - Laredo,TX

Katy, TX · Remote

Previous experience in roof inspections, home inspections, drone photography or related field a ... In Kansas, if the new pilot completes 25 credits within 30 days, both the referrer and the new ...

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Drone Pilot Photographer information

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How much do drone pilot photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for drone pilot photographer 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 a drone pilot photographer?

A Drone Pilot Photographer is a professional who operates drones equipped with cameras to capture aerial photographs and videos. They use their skills in both piloting drones and photography to produce high-quality images for purposes such as real estate, film production, inspections, and events. This role requires knowledge of drone regulations, flight planning, and image editing software. Drone Pilot Photographers often work freelance or for agencies and must ensure they comply with local aviation laws and safety guidelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drone pilot photographer?

To thrive as a Drone Pilot Photographer, you need a solid understanding of aerial photography/videography, piloting skills, and knowledge of aviation regulations—often supported by a remote pilot certification (like the FAA Part 107 in the U.S.). Familiarity with drone operation software, high-resolution cameras, and post-processing tools such as Adobe Lightroom or Premiere Pro is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong spatial awareness are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe drone operation, compliance with legal requirements, and the delivery of high-quality visual content for clients.

How does a drone pilot photographer typically collaborate with clients and creative teams during a project?

As a Drone Pilot Photographer, you often work closely with clients, creative directors, and other team members to understand project goals, visual style, and logistical requirements. Collaboration usually begins with pre-flight planning sessions to determine shot lists, assess locations, and discuss any regulatory considerations. Throughout the shoot, real-time feedback from clients or team members helps ensure that the aerial imagery aligns with creative vision and technical needs. Post-shoot, you may also coordinate on image selection and editing, making clear communication and teamwork essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Drone Pilot Photographer vs Drone Operator?

AspectDrone Pilot PhotographerDrone Operator
CertificationsFAA Part 107 license, photography skillsFAA Part 107 license, operational training
Work EnvironmentPhotography shoots, outdoor locationsInspection, surveying, industrial sites
Industry UsageMedia, real estate, filmmakingConstruction, agriculture, inspection

While both roles require FAA Part 107 certification, a Drone Pilot Photographer specializes in capturing high-quality images and videos, often for media or marketing purposes. A Drone Operator may focus more on technical operation, inspections, or industrial tasks. The key difference lies in the primary job focus: photography versus operational tasks.

Are drone pilot photographers in demand?

Drone pilot photographers are increasingly in demand across industries such as real estate, construction, and media for aerial imaging and videography. The growth of drone technology and the need for high-quality visual content have expanded job opportunities, especially for those with proper certifications and skills in operating drones safely and effectively.

How do you become a drone pilot photographer?

To become a drone pilot photographer, you typically need to obtain a remote pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority, which involves passing a knowledge test. Additionally, gaining skills in drone operation, photography, and editing, along with understanding airspace regulations and safety procedures, is essential for success in this role.

How much do drone pilot photographers make?

Drone pilot photographers typically earn between $25,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Freelance pilots may charge hourly rates ranging from $50 to $200, with higher rates for specialized or commercial work. Certification and skill with drone equipment can influence earning potential.
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Drone Pilot Photographer jobs near you

Drone Pilot

TSMG

Dallas, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 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 and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. 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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