Drones are NOT waterproof, but here’s how to fly a drone in the rain anyway! Wait hold on.
Let’s start with: How much rain can you fly in? You need to ask yourself your risk tolerance. I have accidentally flown in pouring rain (for 16 minutes). I know people who have lost their drones in pouring rain. I’m not an advocate for flying your drone in pouring rain because it’s a risk (again, NOT waterproof) and also, ONCE your lens has water on it, every shot you take is either ruined or very hard to edit.
So given that… here’s some tips for flying in something “less than pouring rain” and for a “short amount of time”.
Tip 1: Shoot top down
To avoid getting rain on your drone lens (and therefore a completely ruined shot), consider doing a top done drone photo or video. By pointing the camera AWAY from the rain, you won’t have water spots on your lens.
Point your gimbal down to 90 degrees before you even take off and FLY it this way as you’re going OUT to your shot as well.
Tip 2: Fly backwards
This will also help you to avoid getting rain on your drone lens. Use your map and look at your drone to help you fly backwards to where you want to take your photo or video.
Tip 3: Use apps
I use Weather Channel premium to see by the hour and My Radar to see incoming weather and rain.
Tip 4: Know your shot
Location scout ahead. Don’t waste your time with your drone getting wet “looking” for your shot.
Tip 5: Fly fast
Fly your drone in its fastest speed. Now is the not the time to dilly dally. Fly in sport mode, get to where you want your shot.
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Tip 6: Keep your drone close to you
If you want fly further, GO to that location then send your drone. While you should never fly your drone out of your sight (maintain visual line of sight at all times) right now is ESPECIALLY not the time to do it. You want to keep an eye not just on your drone, but the surrounding weather. There have been times I’ve flown in Florida or Hawaii where it’s pouring rain on one side of the street, but not the other. Make sure you can keep an eye on where the weather is sneaking in from.
Bottom line?
Flying your drone in the rain is a risk because drones aren’t waterproof. But do we do it anyway? Eating ice cream for breakfast isn’t necessarily healthy for you. Do I do it anyway? ALL THE TIME.
That’s not true, I prefer gelato. But ice cream is generally easier to procure.
GO FLY! And tag me on instagram if you capture something good! >click here for instagram