Tell us your story. How did you get started in the drone industry and when did that happen? I first started photography using a DSLR back in 2008 and from there I have always wanted to find new points of view to capture. When researching aerial photography several years ago, I came upon the usage of drones. However, they were a little out of my price range as I was just a hobbyist. Since then, I have always been interested in drones but only bought my first one in 2017. After buying one, my photography has reached new heights (excuse the pun) and I also started to dabble in videography. Tell us about your company/work/organization and your position. I currently do not work in the drone industry and hope to one day! What kind of drone(s) do you fly and what's your favorite thing about it? I currently own the original DJI Mavic Pro and I love how portable it is! The low light capabilities might not be as strong as the DJI Phantom, however I love the quality I get from the camera for both photo and video. Have you learned any valuable lessons being in the drone industry you can share with our female drone community? There will be people who will doubt your ability to fly and to create. Ignore those and surround yourself with positive people who want to see you grow. Those in the Women Who Drone community lift each other up and will help you with any questions you have. If they don't know it, they will find someone to help you! Whether it's from a creative, commercial or humanitarian perspective, tell us about your most memorable drone flight you have piloted thus far. I love the sunsets in New York City and whenever I am able to fly during that time, it is amazing. To see the sun set between the buildings and the sky light up with different colors, is something that I will never be bored of. What would you say to women and girls about the drone industry to spark their interest in getting involved? Drones are for EVERYONE to enjoy!! If you are into photography or videography, a drone is one of those things you should add to your list of tools to be able to get different vantage points. What excites you most about more women joining the drone industry? Women are thoughtful and supportive, which is what this industry sometimes needs. I am excited for more women to join us so that we can grow our community, which would create more opportunities for everyone! Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you? It's not my aerial work, but I have photos that are in the permanent collection for the New York Historical Society! Fallon is a Part 107 pilot who currently lives in New York. She loves to fly her drone for both photography as well as videography. Currently, her passion is with cinematic drone videos and wishes one day her work can be shown on the big screen. If you would like to get in touch with Fallon, you are able to contact her via email (fallon.chan@gmail.com), or private message to her Instagram account @chandemic. #womenwhodrone #WOMENWHODRONE #WOMENANDDRONES #spotlightinterview #drone #fallonchan #womenwhodroneambassador

Photo Credit: @OsitaLV on Twitter Rumor has it that DJI plans to release the latest edition of their Phantom series sometime this year. Drone enthusiasts are speculating that DJI will release the Phantom 5 at their big event scheduled for November 28th, so that it's available in time for Christmas shoppers. What sparked the speculation? These rumors began spreading after what some people believe to be leaked photos of the Phantom 5 prototype appeared on Twitter a couple of months ago. The photos most commonly linked to the rumors were uploaded by user OsitaLV, whose profile states that their a verified drone pilot on DJI BBS (China) and an aerial photographer and filmmaker. They show a drone with interchangeable lenses (with varying focal lengths), a highly requested feature for future installments in the Phantom series, which is likely what fueled the rumors. Speculators believe that other key features of the Phantom 5 series will be a higher resolution camera, larger sensor, and longer flight time. DJI has refuted any claims identifying this UAV as the highly anticipated Phantom 5, instead stating that these images are actually of a modified version of the Phantom 4 Pro designed as a one-off drone and made specifically for an enterprise client. Though, speculators have found this explanation to be less than satisfying. Rumors were further fueled by the announcement that DJI will be hosting a big event later this month. Speculators believe that this event would be the perfect setting to reveal a new, highly anticipated product like the newest Phantom 5. This event is scheduled for November 28th, 2018 between 2 pm and 4 pm EST at Good Morning America Studios in New York City and is titled "Because Life is Big!" The event's press invitation has an illustration with people and objects emanating from a curved rectangular shape that resembles a zoom lens and may be a reference to the drone's desired features. Photo Credit: Dronedj.com For those interested in keeping track, this isn't the first time DJI has had an alleged photo leak of a new product. Earlier this year in NYC, DJI scheduled another event, but the event was postponed. After people were notified about the change, an image started circulating of what appeared to be a new Mavic pro. Could this be a pattern? Will the new Phantom 5 be released on the 28th? We'll find out if anyone's theories were correct this week. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #DJI #dji #phantom5 #DJIannouncement #dronenews #drone #djinews #newproduct #newyork #newyorkcity #WOMENWHODRONE #womenwhodrone #OsitaLV

Photo Credit: Wix Stock Library Have you been considering buying a drone for a while? Do you want to buy a drone as a gift for someone this holiday season? Well, it's a great time to star shopping. The DJI Black Friday sale has started! From November 18th until the 27th, you can save up to 30% online on select DJI drones, combos, and accessories. Products are marked down from $20 to $100 off. DJI is also providing customers with daily coupons for exclusive deals. Only 200 limited coupons will be available each day. These coupons are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so get them while you can! All coupons will expire at 02:59 on Nov 27, 2018 (UTC-5). Photo Credit: DJI Black Friday Event Currently, you can save $100 on the Mavic Air Fly More Combo, the Spark Fly More Combo, the Mavic Pro Platinum, the Mavic Air, and DJI Goggles. Other savings include $50 off of the Tello Boost Combo (now $99), $40 off of the Spark Controller Combo (now $359), $20 off of the Osmo Mobile 2 and Tello drones (now $119 and $79 respectively). In total, that's $530 in savings! Be the first to find out about DJI's latest offers, deals, and news by signing up for the DJI shop mailing list. If you're interested in saving on your next drone purchase while also supporting Women Who Drone, please visit our shop page during this sale. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #dji #WOMENWHODRONE #djisale #DJI #BlackFriday #WOMENANDDRONES #dronesale #DJIdiscounts #MavicPro #MavicAir #Spark #OsmoMobile #Tello

Tell us your story. How did you get started in the drone industry and when did that happen? As a side job to my full-time work, I was also a semi-professional photographer, working a variety of special events and music festivals since 2009. I then was starting to get burned out, as I felt a lot of my photos, especially of live musicians, looked similar to ones my peers were capturing. One day in 2014, I saw a top-down shot of Martha's Vineyard coastline pass through my feed, which was taken by my friend Nate Boltron. I immediately knew I had to create a similar effect with my own photography. My friend and co-conspirator for Flying Robot International Film Festival, Eddie Codel, lent me his DJI Phantom 1. The technology was incredibly limited at the time and I lost it on my third flight. A year later, I would purchase a Phantom 2 Vision+ and start flying when I visited Iceland with friends in November of 2015. From there, my photography took off. In 2017, I got my Part 107 certification and started taking on remote pilot gigs, with the likes of Intel and film companies. I also helped Drone Deploy build their initial community base and wrote a bi-monthly column for Drone360 Magazine. Tell us about your company/work/organization and your position. I run my own aerial media company, where I operate as a remote pilot. I also help other companies with their copywriting and social media marketing. I'm launching an online store of my photos, aptly titled Aerial Print Shop, this coming month. I'll also be participating in ArtPrize, the largest outdoor international art festival to date, which is incredibly exciting. I keep everything diversified so it's fresh and interesting. It's also imperative for my income stream. What kind of drone(s) do you fly and what's your favourite thing about it? Currently, I operate two DJI Phantom 4 Pro's. A lesson that I learned early on, after a few systemic failures from earlier models, is that two drones equals one and one equals none. Always have a back up drone when you decide to fly, especially when you're operating as a professional remote pilot. The Phantom 4 Pro is honestly the best drone I've ever owned. It's stable, reliable, and the professional-grade imagery I've been able to capture makes it an invaluable tool to have in my arsenal. The quality of both photos and video I've gotten from it is my favourite feature. I've toyed with the idea of purchasing an Inspire 2, but at the moment, especially since the P4 Pro is incredibly easy to travel with, I'm content with what I have. I would like to have the option of interchangeable lenses though, so I'm either going to invest in a DJI Inspire 2, or wait for an updated Mavic or Phantom series release. Have you learned any valuable lessons being in the drone industry you can share with our female drone community? For the most part, the drone community has been very welcoming and inclusive of women. I've gotten an incredible amount of support from men, most really want more women to join in and find success. There are a few individuals that are rude and sexist. My advice to women is, first off, to not take anything personally and consider the source if you receive a rare offhand remark. It's not worth engaging with certain people. Blocking, while a dramatic last resort, is also an act of self care. In my Instagram bio, I state "Warning: dumb comments will get removed." A friend informed me that was a bit harsh, but when I showed him some of the comments I've removed, he shook his head and immediately understood. There's a lesson in here: if you have a question, Google it or search the forum first before posting. It can be frustrating to people who are busy or there to learn to see something posted that's obvious, or has already been discussed ad nausea in past threads. I tend to look up to industry leaders and observe how they conduct themselves. The truly successful people don't troll, cuss, or put down other members of whatever medium they're engaging. Remember that what you post on the Internet lasts forever. In that spirit, think of how you want others to perceive you. Spend your energy learning everything you can about how to operate your drone(s) ever-changing airspace regulations and any set of skills that will help your business stand out. Network and always try to help others connect or learn something new. Don't waste energy engaging with people who purposely try to provoke you. Where you channel the most energy is where you'll flourish. Whether its from a creative, commercial or humanitarian perspective, tell us about your most memorable drone flight you have piloted thus far. I'd have to say it was my very first professional remote pilot gig that was the most memorable. I was hired to get both photographs and video clips of the historic Embarcadero buildings in downtown San Francisco. They're roughly 750 feet in height. One mistake I had made, that thankfully didn't cost me, was not setting my Return to Home altitude high enough. Thankfully, my Visual Observer thought fast when I lost signal between buildings and set it so I didn't crash. I also had to yield right of way several times to helicopters. The team I was on had permission to fly the area, but that didn't mean we could slack. We were on high alert at all times. What would you say to women and girls about the drone industry to spark their interest in getting involved? We're still in the infancy of this industry and there's still infinite potential to create a profitable business, or make an altruistic impact using drones. I personally enjoy seeing things from an entirely new perspective. What excites you most about more women joining the drone industry? I find the women in this industry are not only incredibly talented, they're also thoughtful and supportive. Suffice it to say, I have not had an issue with any woman yet. The Amelia Dronehart Group, started by my friend Rhianna Lakin, is one of my favorite groups. I enjoy networking with and helping fellow women because like any other sector, this one can be tough. The more of us join, the better it is for everyone. Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you? I'll be a published author this Fall. "Masters of Drone Photography" is coming out through Ammonite Press and also features some of my favorite female drone photographers, including Petra Leary and Stacy Garlington. Kara is a Part 107-certified remote pilot and artist residing in Michigan. She consults with top drone industry companies on marketing, writes for publications including DroneLife, and sells aerial prints. Look out for her work online at Aerial Print Shop and at ArtPrize. #dji #femaledronepilot #dronegirl #WOMENANDDRONES #interview #spotlightinterview #womenwhodrone

Photo Credit: Wix Stock Images On October 10th, Hurricane Michael made landfall in the Florida Panhandle as a Category 4. On October 12th, the FAA updated their website to warn drone operators against flying in the area, as it could interfere with rescue and recovery missions. However, that does not mean residents of affected areas haven’t seen any drones overhead. In another post, we explored the different ways in which drones are facilitating inspections in various industries, such as construction and real estate. Because of the damages caused by Hurricane Michael, people have witnessed in real time, drones acting as inspectors for their insurance agencies. Essentially, they are using drones to make insurance assessments. Insurance companies have been using drones to assess property damage caused by the hurricane. It has been said before that piloting a drone can be more efficient than a human alone, but most importantly, it minimizes the risks that a human inspector would take on if they were to assess damages personally. At that level of damage, sending drones is quicker and safer than trying to send a person who'll have to navigate through the destruction. WPTV reports that insurance claim inspectors also affirm drones’ usefulness, stating that what a drone can do in minutes, a person could take up to two hours to complete in terms of damage assessment. At the forefront of large-scale drone-based insurance inspectors are State Farm’s claims pilots. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted State Farm a waiver that allowed them to use drones “over people and flights beyond the pilot's line of sight." On October 16, the State Farm newsroom published an article stating that after Hurricane Florence, “State Farm was the first and only insurance company to receive an FAA waiver allowing Claims pilots to operate drones beyond visual line of sight and over people for damage assessment. Drone flights were coordinated with the FAA and Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership (MAAP) at Virginia Tech as part of the Integration Pilot Program for large-scale damage assessment in Virginia and South Carolina.” After Hurricane Michael, State Farm continued to put their claims pilots to work and released a statement saying that, "the Tallahassee area will serve as one of the first populated sites for an insurance company to see unmanned drone flights for large-scale damage assessment following Hurricane Michael." Aside from inspections and insurance, drones are being used for other services and industries in the aftermath of the hurricane. Duke energy used drones to determine where they would deploy repair crews and equipment and to assess how long it would take to make those repairs. Also, AT&T deployed drones to provided cell phone service to survivors and relief efforts. All in all, drones continue to be an asset commercially and to communities. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #hurricanemichael #insurance #insuranceassessment #statefarm #insuranceclaims #claimsinspector #droneinspectors #claimspilots

Photo Credit Flybrix.com Drones are a fun and interactive way to teach kids about technology, and when it comes to learning anything new, failures are likely to occur. Unfortunately, failing with a drone usually means a crash landing, which could result in the destruction of a high-priced item. Rather than let that discourage kids from making mistakes, Flybrix seeks to encourage kids to learn through their failures. Using Lego bricks, Flybrix drones are capable of crashing and being put back together. Kids are free to crash their drones and then rebuild them, turning failure into a learning opportunity. In case you don't know, Flybrix is a company that designs drone kits. With these kits, kids can build drones with Lego bricks, no tools needed. Once built, kids can fly their drone using the Flybrix app. Even though the kits come with a variety of Lego bricks, you're encouraged to add your own to create a unique design, further personalizing the experience. This way, kids get hands-on experience with building a drone and the process is interactive. Cofounded by Amir Hirsch, Robb Walters and Holly Kasun, the Flybrix project began in 2015. Originally, their intention was to combine small drones with computer vision technology and this idea is what guides Flybrix's development today. Currently, their main goal is to facilitate kids' discovery of STEM topics, like robotics and engineering, with drones and Lego as a playful entry point. Flybrix states that their beliefs are that play is the best way to learn, trial and error experiments are the key to creative problem solving, and learning about drones should be safe and approachable. Photo Credit Flybrix.com While there are other kits that utilize Lego in drone building, Flybrix sets themselves apart by focussing on the educational aspect of building drones. They emphasize getting hands-on experience and learning through trial and error. Their drone kits help kids learn how to experiment with drone designs and understand their inner workings in an environment that allows them to work around their failures. Currently, Flybrix is used in over 500 schools in 32 states. Monica Burns, an EdTech consultant, had this to say about Flybrix as an educational tool: “I definitely see the potential for this type of technology in the classroom. From moving students through the design process, problem solving as students work towards a goal, and specific connections to your existing curriculum, the possibilities are endless ... Flybrix was easy-to-use and tasks can definitely be differentiated for a variety of skill and experience levels.” We have seen drones being incorporated into curriculums in a variety of methods for the purposes of STEM education, but Flybrix has the potential to bring something new to the table. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #flybrix #lego #legobricks #dronekit #stem #education #crash #handsonlearning #droneminibuild #diydrones #diydrones #legodiy

Tell us your story. How did you get started in the drone industry and when did that happen? Four years ago I started an online business with my partner, his brother and best friend. I used to create some adventurous/lifestyle intro's to our marketing videos with go pro footage, that all changed when I came across a video on YouTube of Jay Alvarrez with some epic drone shots. I was seriously blown away and immediately bought a 3DR Solo Drone. My partner Chris would mostly fly it, as I was scared of crashing it and thought it was a mans jobs :) For 1.5 years I watched my partner fly the drone and I would get really upset when he didn't get the footage I wanted. I would stand next to him and tell him what to do, as he had a different eye to me when shooting. A year ago, I decided to grab the DJI Phantom 4 Pro controller from him and since then I have never given it back. I finally realized that women could drone too and I now love to create video's portraying how beautiful our planet is from above. Tell us about your company/work/organization and your position. I am a Co-Founder of Lifestyle By My Own Design. I specialize in social media advertising, alongside content creativity and communications. I have also started selling my drone prints and presets online. What kind of drone(s) do you fly and what's your favorite thing about it? DJI PHANTOM 4 PRO! The quality is my number one favorite feature. I also love how it handles itself in the wind with four motion sensors, which has saved my little drone many many times. Have you learned any valuable lessons being in the drone industry you can share with our female drone community? Your timing is critical to capture the best quality footage. I always shoot in the golden hours - early morning or sunset with PolarPro Filters. I have been using the PolarPro cinematic filters and can not rave about them enough! They really do take your footage to the next level. I would also recommend these tips when taking any drone pictures: Look for consistent patterns Shoot in RAW format Utilize the thirds grid overlay for composition Stick to a lower ISO Always have fun :) Whether its from a creative, commercial or humanitarian perspective, tell us about your most memorable drone flight you have piloted thus far. My most memorable drone flight has to be in Zimbabwe at Victoria falls, catching magical rainbows from the mist of the water. I had plenty of tourists who stopped and couldn't keep their eyes off my screen. I finally experienced the full potential of these amazing falls with the help of my drone. I was so stunned by how beautiful and magical it looked from above. I had that overwhelming goose bump feeling and felt like it was the best drone footage I've taken. What would you say to women and girls about the drone industry to spark their interest in getting involved? I would like to voice that there are so many golden opportunities out their right now for women, this space has not been over-saturated by women yet. The moment you create that confidence and view the world from a different perspective, you will be hooked and opened to another magical world out there. What excites you most about more women joining the drone industry? The more women who join the industry, the more confidence and self-worth we create within ourselves. Women bring about a fresh perspective on this industry and prove that no matter what gender or race you may be, we are all equal. I have also noticed that big sponsors such as DJI are incorporating women in their ads and promotions, this is because more women finally see the potential and value in these amazing flying machines. They can open so many doors and bring a passion into your life that you never thought existed. Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you? Never compare yourself to anyone, you are the only person holding yourself back from greatness :) Check out Sandrine's Video story below! Sandrine is a drone enthusiast who travels the world to capture pictures, vlogs and travel videos. She runs a online business which supports her passions to capture the world from a different perspective. She grew up in South Africa and moved to Perth Western Australia 6 years ago. #spotlightinterview #womenwhodrone #dronegirl #femaledronepilot #WOMENWHODRONE

Photo Credit: Wix Stock Images Performing inspections is a regular part of many industries. The results of an inspection can determine the direction of a project and prevent possible losses on investments. Inspections save people money and protect us and our property. The inspector visits a site or uses tools to collect data to ensure that a project is going according to plan and meets its necessary requirements. However, inspection comes with an element of risk and inaccuracy. The inspector puts himself in some level of danger to gather the data they need, or they rely on tools or equipment for hard to reach places. This is why industries have been integrating drones into their inspections. Drones being used for inspections come with a host of benefits. They are an up and coming solution to the obstacles traditional inspectors face. For example, many people have experienced the need for a roof inspection, but performing one comes with risks. To properly inspect a roof, the inspector needs a good view. This usually requires that they observe the roof from the ground with binoculars or climb onto the roof and inspect it up close and personal. The former option leaves greater room for error, and the latter option poses a safety risk and could lead to possible damage to the roof in question, which would be counterproductive. In contrast, drones reduce the risks involved in performing inspections while also improving their accuracy and efficiency. A person could invest in their own drone and become a certified pilot. The pilot simply has to fly a drone over the structure or work site and use its camera or sensors to collect data, while they remain safely on the ground. Flying a drone is safer than walking directly on a roof or climbing a ladder and more accurate than looking through binoculars. This goes for any industry like construction and city planning where similar inspections are a necessity. In 2016, Liberty Mutual started using drones for property claims to avoid "any unnecessary risk of injury to adjusters, contractors, and inspectors." They also affirmed that using drones was safer than sending someone up a ladder to inspect rooftop damage and speeds up the inspection process. Additionally, a person could hire a service that specializes in performing inspections. There are many companies that offer drone inspections as a service. Industrial Skyworks does industrial asset inspections and data acquisition. They also process the data to create 2D and 3D images. Measure offers aerial inspections and one of their projects involves using the data they collect from aerial inspections to increase the productivity of solar plants. Asset Drones is a company that has a fleet of drones equipped with cameras and sensors. Cyberhawk is a visual asset management company that performs aerial inspections and surveys using UAVs. With their maneuverability, drones can fly places humans need special tools and equipment to reach. Aerial shots of a house can show potential buyers or investors a more accurate picture of properties that are up for sale. This can reveal possible structural problems before construction is complete, which could save money in rebuilding. Also, with drone mapping software, a pilot can make 3D models of a work site. When compared to other tools, drones are capable of capturing information in higher detail. Therefore, resulting in the collection of more accurate data that's easily shareable. In summary, this is just one of the many ways drones can be an asset to various industries. By providing higher quality data with increased efficiency, past methods of inspections are becoming outdated. Drones can be equipped with powerful cameras, advanced sensors and infrared technology. They can inspect difficult to reach areas or areas that pose health and safety risks, saving your time, money and risk from unnecessary danger. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #droneinspectors #construction #realestate #inspections #safety #assetinspection #roofinspection #industrialinspection #droneinspection #industrialskyworks #measure #assetdrones #cyberhawk

Elena Buenrostro, Martha Stewart, Laura Chukanov Martha Stewart is an inspirational role model to many women around the world. Whether it’s in the kitchen or garden, indoors or outdoors, Martha's strong curiosity for life along with her creativity, passion for learning and ability to teach the world at large is extraordinary. With Martha’s vastly wide ranging interests it should come as no surprise to any of us that she has developed an interest in drones. Laura Chukanov and Elena Buenrostro with Martha's puppies Lucky for us, I was recently invited to meet Martha at her home in upstate NY. As we approached Martha's pristine 153-acre farm in upstate New York, we were greeted by her gorgeous chow puppies and two french bulldogs. Martha then walked up with grace and full of life but what really stood out was her immediate fascination for the large DJI Matrice Pro 600 Hexacopter drone that DJI had brought along. It wasn’t long before the drone was sent high above her property to get a perspective that only drones can. Martha owns a Mavic Pro and excitedly explained that she uses her drone to capture aerial images of her gardens and property. While speaking to us, she said something that stuck with me - "drones are tools." I know this only too well - having first purchased my own drone as a hobbyist - taking my videography and photography skills to a whole new level - but soon converting that into something that could drive a global change in the number of women doing the same thing as me. Martha's passion for drones stems from her fascination in obtaining a whole new perspective from above. For her, it is to photograph and film her incredible property. As Martha drove us around in her golf cart, she stopped and mused that if Louis XIV had a drone, imagine what he could have accomplished. She is right. If we pause to think about how drones are beginning to impact our world in a positive way - not only in the creative fields, but in construction, architecture, farming, search and rescues and soon to be delivery, I think most of us would agree that drones are extraordinary tools and are here to stay. We still do not know the limits in what they can help us accomplish but stories like Martha's along with all the other women we feature weekly are testimonies to how and why we all get inspired by someone to simply get up, go out and try something new. Elena is a Video Producer, Photographer, Part 107 Certified Drone Pilot and Instructor. As featured in The Washington Post, Fast Company and on DJI for her aerial photography and cinematography, Elena's passion for flying drones stemmed from her trip to the Great Wall of China. From there, her curiosity turned into a hobby and now a passion and career. Currently, Elena offers drone lessons via Airbnb Experiences in San Francisco, CA and Brooklyn, NY.

Photo Credit: AT&T Innovation Blog "We would provide our flying COW to the first responders, to, say the fire department, and we would pilot it for them, so all it takes is for them to place a phone call, email, contact us and we'll provide that service." - AT&T Drone Program Director, Art Pregler We already know that drones can do more than just fly around our backyards, or take vacation photos. They have optimized the progress of many industries and resulted in new businesses and opportunities for those interested in drone technology. Now, they have proven themselves to be a great aid during disasters. Most notably, telecommunications companies have been innovating ways to utilize drones as a method of disseminating cell service, specifically, AT&T and Verizon. AT&T has been able to provide survivors with cell phone service with their 'Flying COW', a specially designed drone equipped with cells and antennas. In recent innovations, telecommunication giant AT&T has been working on a way to combine drones and cellular service. Their Flying Cow acts as an LTE hotspot. COW is an acronym for Cell on Wings, referring to the drone’s ability to send LTE signals and provide cellular service to those on the ground. The Flying COW is mainly making a name for itself as contributing to relief efforts following natural disasters. Its premier flight occurred after Hurricane Maria swept through Puerto Rico, where it provided temporary data, voice, text and wireless connectivity services as a remote helicopter. During any disaster, communication can be a determining factor in someone's survival, and cell phones are the quickest and easiest way to disseminate and receive information. Flying COW allowed anyone, not just AT&T customers, to call for help and update their friends and family on their condition and the state of the area. Otherwise, survivors resort to sweeping the tops of bridges in search of a signal. The Flying COW is the first drone developed for AT&T's Network Disaster Recovery (NDR) system. Its latest iteration is an all-weather octocopter capable of flying through rain, snow, 50 mph winds, and extreme temperatures and equipped with small cells and antennas. It was designed with help from first responders of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). Verizon has also thrown their hat into the ring of drone-based cell service. Verizon Network Vice President Michael Haberman states that their goal is to provide smartphone users the service they need to call for help or identify their location after an emergency. Earlier this year, Verizon's drones were still being tested. Haberman assured that they'd be available to use this year should there be another natural disaster. I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron #att #hurricanemichael #cellphoneservice #disasterrelief #hurricanemaria #puertorico #florida #verizon #flyingCOW #LTEhotspot #dronenews

Tell us your story. How did you get started in the drone industry and when did that happen? I picked up aerial photography as a hobby. I was so inspired by my high school film class, that I pursued a career in the studio business and joined Local 728 - set lighting technician's union. While I've been lucky enough to get paid to work on TV shows, I have found photography to be an added passion on the side. As a way to spice things up, I purchased a drone as a 28th birthday present for myself and have truly been enjoying the thrill! Tell us about your company/work/organization and your position. I am a lighting console programmer, which for the past several years I've been working on Shameless and Animal Kingdom. I basically control all the lights, static or moving, by changing intensities, colors, and shape, and programming light cues when needed. I also founded a company on the side, called Instant Plugs, where I curate content for brands and collaborate with influencers on marketing campaigns. What kind of drone(s) do you fly and what's your favorite thing about it? DJI Mavic Pro. Cinematic 4K resolution and the ability to easily fit all components in my bag to carry with me wherever. Have you learned any valuable lessons being in the drone industry you can share with our female drone community? Be wary of wireless signals when flying a drone. The wireless signal between your drone's controller and your drone is a line-of-sight signal, which means that if something comes in the way between you and the drone then you can lose control of it. Be sure to always know where your drone is in relation to you, so you can get it back safely and don't rely on the "return to home" feature if things go haywire. Whether its from a creative, commercial or humanitarian perspective, tell us about your most memorable drone flight you have piloted thus far. I took my drone to Mammoth to really test it out for the first time. It. Was. Incredible. For someone who has been to Mammoth hundreds of times in her life, it was so unreal to see such well-known, well-traveled land from a different viewpoint. What would you say to women and girls about the drone industry to spark their interest in getting involved? Watch videos to get you inspired! I was self-taught and got such a thrill out of watching drone videos, which is what ultimately inspired me to go out and buy a drone. What excites you most about more women joining the drone industry? It's great to see so many get involved! Anyone is capable of flying a drone - I work with so many amazing female directors of photography and have learned so much from them, because they seem to be a whole lot more open about sharing their secrets than the men. Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you? If I'm not working, or renovating my home in my free time, then I'm probably out rescuing senior dogs from shelters. My name is Dana Hill and I am 28 years old. I was born in Walnut Creek, CA and graduated from UCSB with a degree in film and media studies. I then moved to Los Angeles, where I pursued my passion for film. I have since joined Local 728, the Set Lighting Technician union and have worked on countless feature films, commercials, and am now working in TV at the Warner Brothers Studios. I developed a passion for film during my high school media class and pursued that passion throughout college. I have already obtained my dream job and have expanded my interest in film by purchasing a drone. I love the freedom flying my drone gives me and will never stop loving the fresh perspectives my shots offer me. In my free time I am either on a road trip with my drone, renovating my house in Valencia, CA, or I'm hanging out with my rescue pups! #spotlightinterview #womenwhodrone #interview #FEMALEDRONEPILOT #dronegirl #WOMENANDDRONES #femaledronepilot #dji #WOMENWHODRONE

Tell us your story. How did you get started in the drone industry and when did that happen? As a journalist, I always love to capture the moments I am in. I can't remember my life without a camera. Three years ago I moved to Australia to study. Living in another country away from my home made me more independent and changed who I was. After this amazing experience I discovered that travel and shooting became my new hobby, and my new love. Two years ago I bought my first drone and started to learn how to fly. I regularly put videos on YouTube of every place I've flown my drone, as it allows me to see things in a different way. I believe that it helps encourage everyone to recognise how beautiful the world is and the benefits of viewing it from another perspective. I also love editing and sharing my drone photos on Instagram. Tell us about your company/work/organization and your position. Currently, I work in a big pharmaceutical company as a sales consultant. I spend most of the time at work, but I try my best to use my free time to travel, fly my drone and also work as a freelance content creator. What kind of drone(s) do you fly and what's your favourite thing about it? The DJI Mavic Pro. I just love my drone because I use it most of the time when I am traveling. The Mavic Pro is easy to carry and easy to operate. Have you learned any valuable lessons being in the drone industry you can share with our female drone community? It's not easy to find women who fly drones. To be honest, I never saw any. Growing up in a society where most of these things are for boys and never for girls, I believe, and I am sure that there is no reason for that. Women can do whatever they want to do, we don't need anybody else to make it happen. Women simply starting to fly a drone, can be the start point to seeing women flying everywhere. Even more, to fly airplanes overseas. It is the moment to listen to the female voices, to prove we are equal. We don't want Barbies any more, we want tech toys. Whether its from a creative, commercial or humanitarian perspective, tell us about your most memorable drone flight you have piloted thus far. I was in Mexico this year, when my boyfriend and myself went to a beautiful cenote. The place is amazing and we decided to fly my drone to see the nature even better. During the flight we couldn't believe what we saw. A blue immensity, a bigger cenote that is only possible to see from above. We made a small video and I posted it on Instagram. After that, four of my friends decided to go to Mexico, only because of the video and the pictures that we took. For this reason, I'm pretty sure that drone shots encourage people to travel, to live and to discover. I also have great memories from another trip to California this year as well. We were on a private farm and made a drone video for the guy who rented out the Airbnb to us. He was so fascinated with the video, that he ended up letting us stay at his farm for free. We made the video expecting nothing, but to see something in a different way is a powerful tool. You just need to make it happen. What would you say to women and girls about the drone industry to spark their interest in getting involved? We need to be a part of the change. If you are a woman or girl and you believe in girl power and equality, you are a part of this community. Flying a drone is one way to give a voice to this movement, by entering into a place that many people believe is just for men. We can prove to everyone how good us women can be. What excites you most about more women joining the drone industry? Women joining the drone industry just shows how powerful we can all be when we are together. I am a feminist and I want to make women even more powerful and independent. Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you? I believe in a world of greater equality. A place where women can do whatever they want without judgments. Except believing is not enough, we must act in favour of this change. We need to occupy spaces that are ours for merit. Marina Miranda is a Brazilian Journalist, photographer, and drone enthusiast, that is in love with the world and loves to travel. <3 Visit her website here. #spotlightinterview #femaledronepilot #FEMALEDRONEPILOT #dronegirl #WOMENWHODRONE #womenwhodrone #interview #dji