How to Make Money with a Drone (24 Best Ways)

You want to know how to make money with a drone, right? We’ve got you covered.

We will discuss 24 cool ways to make money with drones, talk about regulations, business tips, and more.

Now get your read on!

How to Make Money with a Drone Quick Picks

Here are the top three ways to generate income with your drone:

• Most Profitable: 3D Modeling – A rapidly growing field with various applications.
• Most Innovative: Feet Pics – Unique, artistic, and surprisingly lucrative.
• Coolest Option: Event Coverage – Capture memorable moments from a new perspective.

24 Cool Ways to Make Money with a Drone

Selling Aerial Photos or Videos

Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+

Selling aerial photos or videos taken by used drones is one of the most common ways for real estate photographers to earn money through videography. As an aerial photographer, you can capture breathtaking photographs of landscapes, cityscapes, events, and more using drone photography. Join the community of talented drone photographers today.

The trick is to find many ways to capture unique perspectives as an aerial photographer, which can lead to a successful career. For instance, drone photographers could create a series of aerial photographs showcasing famous landmarks from above. The pictures would provide a unique perspective that can only be captured through drone photography.

Websites like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock allow drone photographers to sell their aerial photographs and earn royalties. These platforms provide great opportunities for drone photography jobs.

Stock Photography

Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+

Stock photography is another great avenue to explore. These are pictures that businesses, bloggers, advertisers, and photographers often buy to use for their jobs in the industry. For example, in the travel industry, a job for a travel blog might require aerial pictures of popular tourist destinations. This is a way to capture readers’ attention and showcase the beauty of these locations. 

To start in the stock photography industry, you must build a portfolio of high-quality, high-resolution images. This will help you secure a license and make money for your business. 

iStock and Getty Images are popular platforms in the business industry where you can sell your stock photos and make money. If you have a collection of high-quality images, these platforms are exactly what you need.

YouTube Channels

Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+

Starting a YouTube channel focused on drone footage can be profitable for your business in the drone industry. You can make money by creating engaging content that meets the needs of your target audience. From tutorials on how to fly drones to showcasing stunning aerial views, you can create a wide range of content in the drone industry. Whether you’re selling drones or simply looking to make money from your videos, using drones can be a lucrative venture. 

Once you’ve built up a substantial following, you can use YouTube’s Partner Program to monetize your channel and make money for your business. You can also earn money through business sponsorships and brand deals. 

Real Estate Photography

Estimated Monthly Income: $4500+

Drones are increasingly used in the real estate to capture high-quality photos and videos of properties, saving time and money for those in need. These images can give potential business buyers a better view of the property, including its size, layout, and proximity to nearby business features. 

Business websites like Zillow and Redfin often feature drone footage in their business listings. You can start your business by offering services to local real estate agencies or freelance platforms like Upwork.

Wedding Photography/Videography

Estimated Monthly Income: $6000+

“No industry or society can escape the transformative impact of drones.”

-Peter Diamandis

Weddings are special occasions for couples in the business of creating unique memories. Many couples are willing to pay for innovative ways to capture their big day. Drones can offer a unique perspective for business purposes, capturing aerial shots of the venue, ceremony, and reception. 

You can market your business services on wedding planning websites like The Knot and WeddingWire. Remember, each wedding is unique, so it’s essential to communicate with the couple and understand their vision.

Aerial Surveys

Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+

From construction to environmental studies, many industries leverage the power of drones for aerial surveying. For instance, mapping geological features, monitoring construction progress, or assessing environmental impact are just a few examples. Companies like DroneDeploy offer platforms that help drone pilots capture, analyze, and share their aerial data with clients.

Conducting efficient aerial surveys requires understanding your drone’s capabilities, the client’s requirements, and safety regulations. In addition, investing in software like Pix4D can help you capture high-quality data and create detailed 3D models of the survey area. Remember, each project is unique, so planning your flights carefully and capturing the necessary data is crucial.

Drone Courses

Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+

If you’re an experienced drone pilot, why not share your knowledge and skills with others? Creating an online course can be a great way to earn income. You could cover topics like how to fly a drone, understanding drone laws, or even specific applications like aerial photography. Platforms like Udemy and Skillshare allow you to host courses and reach a large audience.

Once you’ve created your course content, you’ll need a platform to host it. As mentioned, Udemy and Skillshare are popular choices. However, you could also consider Teachable, which gives you more control over your branding and pricing. Remember, successful courses are informative, engaging, and easy to follow.

Drone Racing

Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+

Getting into the Drone Racing Scene Drone racing is a rapidly growing sport where pilots fly their drones at high speeds through challenging courses. It’s exciting, competitive, and can be quite lucrative for the top racers. You’ll need a racing drone and plenty of practice to get started. Check out MultiGP, the world’s largest professional drone racing league, for information on how to get started.

The potential earnings from drone racing can vary greatly. Top racers can earn thousands of dollars from competitions, sponsorships, and brand endorsements. However, it’s worth noting that drone racing is a highly competitive field, so it requires significant time and effort to reach the top level.

Agricultural Monitoring

Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+

Agriculture Drones are revolutionizing agriculture by providing farmers with precise, timely data about their crops. From detecting pests and diseases to monitoring crop health and irrigation systems, drones offer a cost-effective solution for agricultural monitoring. Companies like PrecisionHawk provide software and services specifically for this purpose.

If you’re interested in offering agricultural monitoring services, you’ll need a drone equipped with specialized sensors and knowledge of agriculture. Consider getting certified as a remote pilot by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) if you’re in the U.S., which will add credibility to your services. Reach out to local farms and agricultural businesses to offer your services.

Wildlife Photography

Estimated Monthly Income: $4500+

Capturing Wildlife Safely from Above Wildlife photography is another area where drones can offer unique perspectives. Capturing stunning images of animals in their natural habitat from a safe distance is now possible with drones. However, it’s crucial to follow ethical guidelines to avoid disturbing Wildlife. Websites like Nature TTL offer great tips and tutorials on wildlife photography.

Once you’ve captured your stunning wildlife images, you can sell them through Adobe Stock or Shutterstock. Additionally, consider entering photography contests such as the Drone Awards, which specifically has a category for wildlife photography. You could also approach wildlife magazines and websites to see if they want to purchase your images.

Real Estate Photography

Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+

The world of real estate has been revolutionized by drone photography. Property buyers love to see aerial views of the properties they’re interested in, and nothing provides better aerial shots than a drone. If you have a knack for photography and an eye for property layout, you could make a good living by taking stunning photos and videos of properties for sale. 

DroneBase connects drone pilots with real estate agents needing their services. I’ve heard drone operators making as much as $200 per shoot!

Business Projects

Estimated Monthly Income: $4500+

“The drone era is about to begin,”

– Howard L. Lance

Businesses always look for unique ways to promote their products or services. Drone footage can provide:

• That unique perspective.
• Capturing an event.
• Showcasing products.
• Simply providing a bird’s eye view of the business premises. 

You could offer your services to local businesses or join networks such as Up Sonder, which connects drone pilots with businesses. Remember, creativity is key in this field!

Land Surveying

Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+

Land surveying is critical in construction, agriculture, and environmental conservation. Drones with advanced sensors and imaging capabilities are now used to conduct land surveys more efficiently. 

This opens up opportunities for drone pilots to collaborate with land surveying companies. Websites like Droners.io can be a great resource for finding such opportunities.

Drone Education Courses

Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+

As the demand for drone pilots increases, so does the need for qualified instructors. If you’re an experienced drone pilot, why not share your knowledge and earn money while at it? 

You could create your online course on platforms like Udemy or offer in-person training sessions. Remember, you’re not just teaching people how to fly a drone but also about safety regulations, flight mechanics, and more.

Stock Drone Photography

Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+

Stock photography websites are always looking for fresh and unique content. If you have a collection of high-quality drone photos and videos, consider selling them on stock photo websites. Websites like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock are popular for selling drone images and footage. The key here is to provide a variety of high-quality shots that people would be interested in purchasing.

Advertising and Promotions

Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+

Drones have revolutionized the advertising industry. They can capture stunning aerial shots, which can be useful for promoting anything from real estate to tourism destinations. For example, a drone can showcase a property from angles that were once impossible to attain. Companies like DroneBase offer pilots the opportunity to earn money by shooting aerial footage for real estate, construction, and insurance clients. This could be a lucrative opportunity if you’re good at flying a drone and have an eye for capturing compelling images and videos.

Another great platform is Skytango. It’s a marketplace where drone pilots can sell their footage to media outlets and advertising agencies. All you need is a drone, some creativity, and the ability to capture high-quality footage. The more unique and captivating your shots are, the more likely they sell.

Event Coverage

Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+

‘You don’t take a photograph, you make it.’

-Ansel Adams

Event coverage is another great way to make money with drones. Think about weddings, sports events, concerts, or any other gatherings that could benefit from unique aerial perspectives. An event like a wedding becomes even more memorable when you can provide breathtaking footage from above, capturing the venue, ceremony, and celebration uniquely.

Platforms like Droners.io connect drone pilots with clients who need drone services, including event coverage. You can create a profile, showcase your work, and bid on projects. Another platform to consider is Fly4Me. This drone pilot network offers opportunities for pilots to get hired for various services, including event coverage. So, if you have a drone and a knack for capturing special moments, this could be a promising income stream.

3D Modeling

Estimated Monthly Income: $6000+

3D Modeling with drones is a rapidly growing field. This technology is used in various sectors, including construction, archaeology, and real estate. For instance, drones can create 3D models of construction sites in construction, helping teams monitor progress, identify potential issues, and plan future work.

Sketchfab is a platform where you can upload, share, and sell 3D models. You could use a drone to capture the necessary images and software to create the model. Another platform, DroneDeploy, offers a comprehensive suite of drone-based mapping and analytics solutions. You can use it to create 3D models and offer your services to clients across various industries.

Drone Rental Services

Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+

Not everyone who wants to benefit from drone technology has the budget or desire to buy a drone. That’s where drone rental services come in. By renting out your drone, you can generate income without piloting it yourself.

Up Sonder is an example of a platform where you can list your drone for rent. It’s like an Airbnb for drones. People looking for a drone for a specific project can rent yours, and you get paid. Another option is KitSplit, which allows you to rent out camera equipment, including drones. It’s a great way to make money from your drone when you’re not using it yourself.

Film Making

Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+

Filmmaking is a lucrative field where drones are increasingly being sought after. With their ability to capture stunning aerial shots and unique perspectives, drones are revolutionizing how films are made. If you possess good piloting skills and an eye for aesthetics, offering drone videography services to film production companies can be profitable. 

You can also consider creating and monetizing your content on platforms like YouTube. According to DJI Insights, drone photography, and videography are the primary ways to make money with drones.

Feet Pics

Estimated Monthly Income: $1000+

This may sound surprising, but selling feet pics taken from a drone can be an interesting way to earn money. The unique angle provided by drones adds an artistic touch to the pictures, making them appealing to stock photo websites, art collectors, or even foot fetish communities.

Sites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock are popular platforms for selling such pictures. According to The Savvy Couple, selling stock photos with a drone is one of the legitimate ways to make money.

Selling Old Drones

Estimated Monthly Income: $2000+

If you have older drones still in good condition, selling them can be a great way to make some extra cash. Many beginners in drone piloting prefer buying used drones for practice before investing in a new one. 

Platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace are popular places to list your old drones for sale. According to a post on Reddit, used drones can still fetch a good price depending on their condition and model.

Renting Drones

Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+

Not everyone who needs a drone wants to buy one. Renting out your drone can be a great way to generate income, especially if you own high-end models for professional purposes like filmmaking or surveying. 

Websites such as UpSonder or Fat Lama let you list your drone for rent to people in your locality. A post on LinkedIn suggests that offering drone services, including rentals, is a common way to profit from drones.

Understanding Drone Regulations

When it comes to flying drones, it’s crucial to understand and comply with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.

Essential Information about FAA Regulations

The FAA has specific rules for drone usage in the United States that every drone pilot must follow:

• All drones weighing more than 250 grams must be registered with the FAA, regardless of whether they’re flown for fun, business, or public safety.
• Drones should always fly at or below 400 feet.
• The drone must always remain within the operator’s line of sight.
• Flying in restricted airspace or near other aircraft is prohibited, especially near airports.
• Compliance with FAA regulations is mandatory for all drone operations in the U.S.

Importance of Drone Certification

While anyone can fly a drone for recreational purposes, commercial drone pilots must pass an FAA test to get certified. This certification ensures you understand the regulations, operating requirements, and procedures for safely flying drones. Not only does this certification keep the skies safer, but it also opens up more opportunities for commercial work since many companies require this certification for drone-based jobs.

Necessary Skills and Equipment

Operating a drone requires a blend of technical know-how and practical skills.

Basic Drone Operating Skills

Here are some fundamental skills every drone pilot should have:

• Understanding of FAA regulations: As mentioned above, knowing the rules is critical for safe and legal drone operation
• Manual dexterity: The ability to handle the controls smoothly is essential for precise flight and clear aerial photography
• Spatial awareness: Pilots need to understand how the drone moves in three-dimensional space and be aware of any obstacles in their path

Choosing the Right Drone for Your Needs

Selecting the right drone depends on what you plan to use it for. Here are a few considerations:

• Purpose: A simple and affordable drone might suffice if you’re flying for fun. However, commercial work like aerial photography or inspections may require a more advanced drone with high-quality cameras and a longer flight time.
• Budget: Drones can range from under $100 to several thousand dollars, so consider how much you’re willing to spend
• Features: Consider what features you need, such as GPS, return-to-home functionality, or obstacle avoidance system

Remember, no matter which drone you choose, it must comply with FAA regulations for weight, altitude, and other factors.

Tips for Running a Successful Drone Business

“Without change, there is no innovation, creativity, or incentive for improvement. Those who initiate change will have a better opportunity to manage the inevitable change.”

– William Pollard

Running a successful drone business requires more than just flying skills. It also involves careful planning, effective marketing, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction. In this post, I’ll share practical tips to help you navigate these areas.

Building a Solid Business Plan

Understanding the Market

Firstly, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough market analysis. This will help you understand your area’s demand for drone services and identify potential competitors. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global drone services market size is projected to grow from USD 13.9 billion in 2021 to USD 40.7 billion by 2026.

Strategizing Your Business

Once you’ve gathered market data, you can develop a business strategy. You should include:

• Your unique selling proposition (what sets you apart from other drone businesses)
• A pricing strategy that considers both profitability and competitiveness
• A detailed financial plan, including startup costs and revenue projections

Marketing Your Drone Services

Building an Online Presence

In today’s digital age, your online presence is crucial. Here are some steps to take:

• Create a professional website showcasing your services and portfolio
• Utilize social media platforms to connect with potential clients and share updates
• Optimize your online content for SEO to increase visibility on search engines

Networking and Partnerships

Forming partnerships with local businesses and joining industry networking groups can also be beneficial. For instance, real estate agencies, event planners, or construction companies might require drone services.

Ensuring Customer Satisfaction

Delivering Quality Work

The most effective way to ensure customer satisfaction is by delivering high-quality work consistently. This means investing in reliable drones and equipment and honing your piloting and video editing skills.

Communication is Key

Maintaining clear and timely communication with clients is also vital. This includes setting realistic expectations, keeping clients updated on project progress, and responding to inquiries and feedback.

After-Sales Service

Finally, providing excellent after-sales service can lead to repeat business and referrals. This could involve offering follow-up consultations or maintenance services.

How to Make Money with a Drone FAQ

Can you make money with drones?

Yes, you can certainly make money with drones. Drone pilots with less than a year’s experience can earn an average of $20 per hour, depending on their employer. Moreover, if you’re creative and have good drone flying skills, you can earn around $50,000 yearly as a drone photographer. There are also opportunities to make money with your drone by selling aerial maps and surveys, which are in high demand.

What business can I start with drones?

You can start a drone business in various niches. For instance, you can offer aerial photography and videography services, which require you to pilot your drone to capture stunning images and video. Another option is to start a drone mapping business, utilizing drone mapping software to create detailed aerial maps. You can also design, manufacture, and sell your drones or drone-related products.

How do I find freelance drone work?

To find freelance drone work, you can create a profile on stock photo websites like iStock and Shutterstock and send your drone photography or videography for review. You can also look to join companies that hire drone pilots, where the pay can vary depending on the region. Furthermore, networking with other drone pilots in your area can lead to job opportunities.

What drone jobs pay the most?

The salary for a drone pilot can vary greatly based on their skills and the type of drone work they do. However, according to the sources, drone photography can be quite profitable, earning around $50,000 annually. Other high-paying drone jobs include drone inspection and surveying services.

Are drones in high demand?

Yes, drones are in high demand across different sectors. From aerial photography and videography to mapping and surveying, many businesses want to hire pilots or purchase drones for commercial purposes. As the drone market grows, drone deliveries are becoming more common, increasing the demand for professional drone pilots.

How to Make Money with a Drone Conclusion

Making money with a drone has become a popular trend in recent years. The possibilities are vast, whether you’re an amateur flying your drone for fun or a professional looking to leverage your drone skills. From aerial photography to drone surveys, there are several ways you can earn good money by simply piloting a drone. Drone enthusiasts have discovered that drones have revolutionized the surveying and photography sectors, creating numerous opportunities for those who want to make money flying drones.

To get started, you’ll need to make a few preparations. First, register your drone and apply for a drone license. This will allow you to use your drone commercially. Next, consider taking drone training to become a drone pilot. A professional drone pilot can earn around $200-250 per hour, according to Skylum Blog. Getting drone insurance to protect yourself and your drone is also essential. Once you’ve completed these steps, you’re ready to start making money. Some of the best ways to make money include offering drone photography services, selling drone accessories, or even starting your own business. Remember, it’s not just about the drone you have but how you use it. So, find out which drones are best suited for your purpose and explore how to earn money with a drone.