Prepping for a job explained: From client intake to final delivery

Our MoneyShot Mini equipped with a RED Komodo

When a client approaches us for drone services, there's a meticulous process we follow to ensure we deliver top-notch results that exceed expectations. From the initial intake to the final delivery, each step is crucial for us to understand the client's needs and provide a precise quote. Here's an inside look at our process:

Our Alta X carrying a Movi Pro & Sony Burano 8k

Client Intake

The journey begins with the client intake. This is where we listen to the client's requirements, gather essential details about the job, and answer their initial questions via phone or email. We try our best to reply to all inquiries in a timely manner, not letting clients feel neglected. This step helps us understand the scope of the project and allows us to provide an accurate quote for our drone services.

Address Verification

Once we have the client's details, we verify the address provided by using Nav Drone and Google Earth Studio. This ensures the location is legal and safe for us to operate our drones. Safety and legality are our top priorities, and this step helps mitigate potential hazards, especially for aerial drone services. The benefit of using NavDrone in this step helps us verify the maximum legal altitude we can fly at if the operation is in controlled airspace, especially in proximity to an airport.

Our crew out for a scout visit at Toronto's Pearson International Airport

Site Survey and Scout

Depending on the complexity of the job, we will conduct a site survey using RPAS Wilco and if required, a site scout. This entails visiting the location to assess various factors such as the property lines, potential takeoff areas, and site access but also factors less thought about such as power & bathroom access. This helps us plan our operations efficiently and avoid any surprises on the day of the shoot. It is also important to double check the laws before you fly, you can do so HERE.

Job Consideration Document

Before proceeding, we go through our company’s job consideration document. This document is a comprehensive checklist that includes various considerations like if a drone parachute is required (for safe and legal flight over people), weather conditions, personal protective equipment (PPE) and more. Each point on this list is vital for understanding the client's needs better and ensuring nothing is left unanswered. For instance, knowing whether the client needs edited or unedited footage helps us plan our post-production workflow; while understanding the height and position requirements ensures we capture the best angles, crucial for drone photography and drone videography.

Additional equipment for filming in remote areas: client requested a directors monitor & live feed broadcast via Starlink back to basecamp

Quoting the Client

With all the information gathered, we provide a detailed quote to the client. This quote is based on the complexity of the job, the equipment needed, and the specific requirements the client has communicated to us, whether it's drone lighting, Live aerial coverage, or drone security.

Equipment required for a job in airport proximity includes aviation radios to monitor traffic

Before Flying

When flying in controlled airspace, we will always file a flight plan on the NavDrone app and wait for approval before conducting our flights. If special permission is needed, we will reach out to the appropriate party and file the necessary paperwork. For example, filing an SFOC (Special Flight Operations Certificate) to fly over an advertised event or concert, regardless of the drone type or weight.

M350 Pre-Flight Inspection with AVSS parachute equipped

Flying the Job

Once the client approves the quote, it's time to fly the job. Our experienced drone operators follow a detailed plan to capture the footage or photos as per the client's specifications. We cater to various sectors including real estate drone photography & videography, FPV drone fly throughs, and more.

One of our pilots operating the Alta X for live broadcast

Editing

After capturing the footage, we move to the editing stage. Whether the client needs a polished video or high-quality photos, our team of editors works diligently to ensure the final product meets the client's expectations. This is especially important for drone mapping & inspection services and drone construction monitoring.

Our recap video of the 2024 Zach Hyman Golf Classic

Delivery

We deliver the edited media to the client within a few days. This prompt delivery ensures the client can review the work and request any final adjustments if needed, whether it's aerial videography or drone aerial photography services.

Invoicing

Finally, once the client is satisfied with the deliverables, we send the invoice. This completes the job cycle, and we look forward to assisting the client with future projects. Our reputation as a leading drone services company and drone photography provider in Canada stands testament to our commitment to quality.

Our team likes to have fun testing gear before using it on a job

Summary

By following these steps, we ensure a thorough and professional approach to each job, ultimately delivering results that our clients love. This process not only helps us understand the client's needs better but also ensures that every project is completed with the highest standards of quality and efficiency. Whether it's real estate videography in Toronto or drones for filming sports, our comprehensive drone services cater to diverse needs and industries.

To learn more about our Aerial Drone Services, contact josh@firstclassdrones.ca