Drone shot list for real estate video.

Check airspace authorisation for the property address

CAA / FAA / local authority. Never skip this — airspace changes daily.

Check weather: wind speed, gusts, visibility, and cloud base

Ideal conditions: under 20 km/h wind, good visibility, no rain.

Check for temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) active on the day

Confirm drone firmware is up to date

Update the night before, not on location.

Charge all batteries to 100% — minimum 2 batteries per shoot

Format memory cards — confirm previous footage is backed up first

Check all propellers for cracks, chips, or damage — replace if in doubt

Check gimbal for damage and ensure camera is mounted securely

Set camera settings: resolution, frame rate, colour profile, ND filter

Set D-Log or equivalent for maximum grading flexibility.

Calibrate compass if flying in a new location or after firmware update

Identify a clear, flat take-off and landing zone free from obstructions

Identify people, vehicles, and obstacles in the flight area

Plan your flight path to avoid flying directly over people.

Note the position of the sun relative to the property

Determines which shots to prioritise early vs. late in the session.

High-angle static overhead shot of the property

Shows plot size, roof condition, and overall footprint.

45-degree angle front elevation — property centred

Classic real estate aerial. Shows facade and front garden.

45-degree rear elevation — property from the garden side

Shows rear facade, garden extent, and any extensions.

Side elevation left and right

Quick pair of shots showing the full width and depth of the plot.

Slow hover at 10-15 metres showing front door and driveway

Eye-level perspective shows scale in relation to the street.

Slow pan across full property facade left to right

Works well for wide properties or those with strong horizontal lines.

Rising reveal: start low at front of property, rise while pulling back

The most impactful single drone move for real estate. Get this right.

Approach move: fly slowly toward the front facade at 5-8 metres altitude

Creates a sense of arriving at the property.

Orbit (point of interest): slow 180° arc around the property

Shows all elevations smoothly. Clockwise looks more natural on screen.

Top-down reveal: start tight overhead then slowly rise to full plot view

Works particularly well for properties with pools or formal gardens.

Pedestal up: hover at low altitude then rise vertically to show property and surroundings

Simple but effective. Good for tall properties.

Flyby: fly past the property facade at steady altitude and speed

Useful transition shot in the edit.

Rear garden — overhead showing full extent of the space

One of the most searched-for shots by buyers.

Rear garden — angled view at 30-45 degrees showing garden and rear of property

Swimming pool or water feature — overhead and angled detail

If present. A major visual draw.

Terrace or patio — low angle showing the outdoor living space

Emphasise the relationship between house and garden.

Driveway approach — fly slowly along the driveway toward the property

Works well as an opening shot.

Outbuildings or annexes from above

Garages, studios, annexes — shows their size relative to the main property.

Wide pull-back showing property in street context

Pull back to 40-60 metres showing the street and neighbourhood.

Aerial view showing proximity to green spaces or parks

Location amenity is a key buyer concern.

Aerial view showing proximity to town centre or high street

Walkability matters to buyers.

Aerial view showing proximity to schools (blurred or not shown directly)

Do not hover over school grounds. Show distance from safe altitude.

Aerial view of coastline, river, or countryside if within visual range

Landscape setting is a significant selling feature.

Transport links — train station, motorway junction visible from altitude

Only if relevant and visible. Do not fly over infrastructure.

Property lit by warm golden hour sun — front or rear elevation

Schedule 15-20 minutes before sunset. Adjust ND filter for changing light.

Exterior lighting illuminated — garden lights, facade spotlights

Some properties have impressive exterior lighting. Capture it in the last light.

Twilight shot: property interior lights visible through windows

The sky is deep blue, windows glow warm. Most impactful shot on the sheet.

Pool or water feature with reflection of golden sky

If present and conditions are right.

Rising reveal with sunset in the background

Property silhouette against coloured sky. High-impact hero shot.

Land safely, motor stop, remove battery before handling drone

Check all propellers for damage after landing

Copy footage from drone memory card to laptop or field drive

Never pack away without backing up.

Check footage thumbnails to confirm all key shots recorded correctly

Log battery cycle count if tracking for replacement scheduling

Note any flight irregularities for post-flight review

GPS issues, unexpected movements, warning lights.