Drones have become indispensable in commercial real estate (CRE) for capturing stunning aerial views, but capturing extended or long shots presents a challenge: battery life. Drone batteries typically offer limited flight time, often between 20-30 minutes, which can be insufficient for covering large properties or capturing prolonged footage. For CRE professionals aiming to get the most out of their drone photography, understanding battery performance and strategies for extending flight time is key to maximizing efficiency.
1. Understanding Battery Capacity and Factors That Impact Flight Time Drone flight time is influenced by several factors, including battery capacity (measured in mAh), the weight of the drone, and weather conditions. Heavy drones with larger cameras and stabilizers, often used in commercial real estate for high-resolution footage, tend to drain battery life faster. Windy conditions or cold temperatures can also impact flight time, as the drone works harder to maintain stability and uses more energy in challenging weather.
2. Pre-Flight Preparation to Conserve Battery Maximizing flight time starts with pre-flight planning. Before launching, reviewing the route and identifying the specific shots needed allows for a more direct, efficient flight path, which conserves energy. Avoiding unnecessary maneuvers, altitude changes, or speed adjustments can also reduce battery drain. Additionally, fully charging batteries and calibrating sensors ahead of time ensures that the drone operates efficiently throughout its flight.
3. Using Smart Flight Modes for Efficient Shooting Many modern drones come equipped with “smart” flight modes that help optimize power usage while enabling smoother shots. For example, using a “hover and shoot” mode conserves battery by keeping the drone steady for long exposures. Features like “follow mode” or “circle mode” also automate complex shots, reducing the need for continuous manual adjustments, which can save power over a longer flight.
4. Investing in Extra Batteries and Quick Charging Solutions For extensive shoots, especially for large CRE properties, extra batteries are essential. By carrying spare, pre-charged batteries, pilots can quickly swap them out and keep shooting with minimal downtime. High-quality, quick-charging hubs are also worth investing in, as they allow for rapid recharges on-site, supporting continuous shooting sessions without the need to return to a main power source.
5. Battery Maintenance and Care Proper battery maintenance is critical to ensuring long-term performance. Storing batteries in cool, dry places and avoiding full discharges before recharging helps prolong battery health. Using only manufacturer-approved chargers can also prevent issues with battery degradation. With good maintenance habits, CRE professionals can get more flight hours from each battery over its lifespan.
In conclusion, while battery life can be a limiting factor, efficient planning and the right accessories can help CRE professionals capture high-quality, long shots without interruption. By preparing carefully and investing in the right tools, drone operators can focus on delivering the breathtaking aerial visuals that are reshaping the commercial real estate industry.
Based in Alexandria, Louisiana, Justin Giallonardo is a skilled commercial real estate and construction professional, a dedicated community member, and a loving family man.