151 - Drone Like a Pro: Tips, Tools & Rules for Aerial Photographers

In this episode of the Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we’re taking to the skies—literally. I sat down with award-winning photographer and author Chase Guttman, whose groundbreaking book on drone photography helped launch an entire generation of aerial image-makers. As one of the earliest voices in the drone photography space, Chase brings insight, experience, and a healthy dose of sky-high inspiration.

We talk about what it means to compose an image when your camera is 400 feet off the ground, how to think three-dimensionally when navigating space and light, and the gear that every aspiring drone photographer should consider. Whether you're just getting started or looking to take your drone work to the next level (pun definitely intended), this conversation is packed with valuable tips and tools.

Chase also shares his thoughts on the creative freedom drones offer photographers, the importance of storytelling from above, and how to stay legally safe and respectful while flying. Spoiler: it’s not just about dodging birds and watching your battery life—although those are important too.

So if you've ever looked up at the sky and wondered what your photography might look like from that vantage point, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn from one of the pioneers of drone imagery and find out how you can bring new perspective—literally and creatively—to your work.

Episode Promos

This episode contains promos for:

• Luminar Neo Photo Editing Software - https://skylum.evyy.net/c/1337833/1318151/3255
• Elementor Website Builder - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/elementor/
• Pic-Time Photo Galleries - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/pic-time/
• Narrative AI Culling, Editing, and Publishing - https://narrative.so/select?affiliate=casey2746

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About My Guest

Chase Guttman is a three-time recipient and first American to win Young Travel Photographer of the Year, a prestigious international competition judged by museum curators and magazine editors, he was named a World’s Top Travel Photographer by Condé Nast Traveler, a Rising Star by Instagram and won the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Storytelling and Exploration—a lifetime achievement level honor. His book, The Handbook of Drone Photography, was one of the first written on the topic and r