Ranjit Wijedasa picked up drone photography when his daughters gifted him with a set when he turned 60.
“After dropping some hints, my girls got me my first drone, but for the first three months I didn’t touch it,” Ranjit says, smiling at the memory.
After the initial trepidation, and after watching lots of YouTube videos on drones, he decided to dive into it, with enthusiasm.
"It was a bit overwhelming initially. But the best way to get over that is to actually start using it. Then, it becomes easier."
Between his work in an Audio-Visual distributor, pickleball and his drones, Ranjit keeps himself occupied.
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Since taking up flying drones, in 2017, his hobby has taken him near and far; from the limited spots in Singapore that allow drones to be flown, to Europe and Japan, where there are more places to send his drone up to capture amazing images from the sky.
The benefits of flying drones, he says, includes keeping in touch with new technology, staying current on new policies regarding flying drones in different parts of the world, being part of a friendly community of drone enthusiasts and taking fabulous holiday videos.
Restrictions when flying drones
Ranjit warns those thinking of taking up flying drones, that it is a hobby with many restrictions.
There are no-fly zones — which pretty much covers most of Singapore — with limitations on the height you can fly them, the weight of your drone, and restrictions when it comes to matters of privacy, security and proximity to infrastructure.
Ranjit worked his way through the tangle of administrative guidelines and requirements with the help of a community of enthusiasts who freely share knowledge and tips.
When he lost control of his first drone, which flew away, never to return, Ranjit learnt an important lesson.
"When you get error messages, or your signal is intermittent, bring the drone home."
Another tip: “Your batteries are your best bet. Have a few on hand and treat them well. They will maximise the enjoyment of your hobby.”
Drone photography for impactful travel vistas
These days, Ranjit travels everywhere with his drone. The result is some fine videos of Japan, Croatia, France, Germany and regional countries like Thailand and Indonesia. And he has also filmed widely — within the restrictions — in Singapore.
In this video, Ranjit offers advice for those who want to take up flying drones as a hobby.
Equipment needed for drone photography
As far as gear goes, Ranjit has stuck with DJI, a leader in camera drones. For those opting for an older model, Ranjit advices that some controllers may require the use of a mobile phone as a screen to see where the drone is flying. But he adds that the newer controllers come with a built-in screen.
Batteries are important to ensure as much flying time as possible. Invest in batteries and take care of them, is Ranjit’s advice.
A basic set up could cost around $1,000, but there are many accessories that can be added to it, including lenses, filters, landing pads, and so on.
Knowledge on drones
Understanding how a drone flies and manoeuvres will help you get the most out of this hobby. Ranjit says to pay attention to safety features, monitor your battery level, have a good understanding of surroundings and watch for changes in wind conditions.
The regulations regarding flying drones in various countries can vary, so it’s important to be aware of what is required and allowed, or not allowed, in your destination before you bring your equipment on your travels. Being part of a drone community is also useful for troubleshooting, be it about your drone or the regulatory issues.
Drone etiquette should be observed at all times. These would be guidelines to follow, to ensure that your hobby does not disturb others or interfere with ongoing operations in the area you are intending to fly in.
While you can pick up many pointers from YouTube videos, you could also join a course, but the best way to get into this hobby, according to Ranjit, is to have a basic understanding and start flying your drone.
Useful links drone photography
Below are some useful links for those who are interested in picking up this hobby.
