What is the ONE secret ingredient that makes you 'unique' in your industry?
We’re here to help businesses work more effectively, save money and grow but our main focus is to build and develop lasting relationships with our customers. We genuinely want to add value and contribute to the success of your project so customer satisfaction is and will always be our number one goal. We do this by providing continuous transparency and efficient communication to ensure the highest quality of customer service.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
LICENSED: Making sure the drone pilot is licensed. Someone that isn't licensed may not be aware of how to operate in controlled airspace or be informed about the restrictions provided by the FAA to ensure everyone in manned aircraft as well as on the ground are always kept safe.
The FAA charges substantial fines to anyone that hires unlicensed pilots for commercial (paid) work. These fines can be up to $11,000/occurrence.
DRONE SPECIFIC INSURANCE: Additionally, drone specific insurance (which Open Skies has) is required to ensure there is coverage if something happens while using a drone for aerial work. General business insurance typically won't cover this activity and a recreational pilot will not have this coverage.
BACKUP DRONES: Lastly, having multiple drones is important in the event that something happens to avoid unnecessary delays.
What should a customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Some of our services have base prices but we always provide custom services based on your specific needs so the actual price will reflect what you request. Factors like the number of aerial or ground photos, number of aerial video clips, length of edited videos, location/distance, licensing/ownership needs and more will affect the price. This is why we must learn about your needs before providing an accurate quote but we will always do our best to work with your budget to show you the true value of what aerial photos and video can do to improve your business
If you're interested in a larger quantity of a particular service, we're happy to work with you and provide discounted pricing. We also offer discounts in exchange for referrals should you know others that need our services. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and to get a quote.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We discuss your specific needs, timeframe and budget to ensure we understand what you're requesting. If you have any questions about the project or our overall process we're happy to answer them upfront to ensure you know what to expect along the way.
Once you feel good about everything, we'll provide an estimate (50% to be paid upfront) and get your shoot scheduled in our first available opening. For all aerial work we need an address before scheduling to determine if there are any airspace restrictions.
We're always available to answer questions or clarify any concerns beyond the initial conversation so please don't hesitate to let us know if there's something additional you may need.
Is this Legal? I’ve heard that it is not legal to use Drones for Aerial Real Estate Photography?
Commercially operating a drone to take aerial photos of a home is not illegal. The FAA has developed a set of proposed ordinances and regulations governing the commercial use of drones known as Section 107. Open Skies Drone Services meets all requirements and is in full compliance with the FAA. Learn more here.
How long does it take to schedule a photoshoot?
We can generally get you scheduled within a couple of days but it depends on your specific needs. We will need to learn about the scope of your project, get the address to check the need for any FAA authorizations and collect a 50% deposit. Once we receive these items from you, we can get you scheduled for our first available opening. If you’re in a rush, please let us know that upfront in case we can help expedite the process.
What is the turn-around time for photos & videos?
For real estate shoots, photos are delivered in 3 business days and videos are typically delivered in 5 business days (depending on the length). Progress photos, documentation for roofing projects and 2D mapping are 2 business days but we strive to deliver everything more quickly when possible.
Is there anything I need to do to the pictures to put them on the MLS for Real Estate Photography?
No, we deliver them to you MLS ready in the highest possible resolution the MLS will allow.