Ever looked up and thought, "I could get a killer shot from the sky"? Aerial photography lets you turn that thought into real images. Whether you’re using a cheap quadcopter or a professional drone, the basics stay the same: pick the right gear, follow the rules, and edit smartly.
Start with a drone that can shoot at least 4K video or 20 MP photos. In Mumbai, the DJI Mini 3 Pro is popular because it’s light, easy to register, and fits the drone licence rules in India. Set the camera to RAW if you can; it gives you more room to fix exposure and color later.
Use the "tripod mode" (or a low shutter speed) when you’re over water or glossy roofs – it stops the blur that wind can cause. Keep ISO low (100‑200) to avoid grain, and set the aperture around f/2.8‑f/4 for a nice depth of field without over‑exposing bright streets.
Before you launch, you’ll need a drone licence if your machine weighs more than 250 g. The latest drone licence rules in India (2025) require registration with the DGCA, a basic safety test, and a no‑fly zone check. In Mumbai, avoid flying near airports, government buildings, and crowded places without special permission.
Use apps like AirMap or the DGCA portal to see real‑time restrictions. If you’re planning a light show, read up on drone show laws in India – they cover permits, height limits, and crowd safety.
Now that you’re cleared to fly, think about composition. High‑angle shots work great for “city‑scape” vibes, while low‑angle shots reveal texture on rooftops and street markets. Move the drone slowly; fast moves make the ground look shaky even if the drone is stable.
Once you land, edit the RAW files with a simple tool like Lightroom. Boost contrast a bit, fix any color cast from the Indian sun, and consider a subtle vignette to draw the eye to the center. If you want prints, Mumbai Digital Print & Photo Services can turn your aerial shots into high‑quality canvases or large‑format posters.
Ready to try it? Grab your drone, check the licence, plan a route over a spot you love – perhaps the Marine Drive skyline at sunset – and start shooting. You’ll be amazed how a few tweaks in gear and a quick legal check can give you professional‑grade aerial photos without a big studio budget.
The use of DJI drones in India has been met with significant restrictions due to concerns over national security, privacy, and regulatory compliance. These drones, equipped with advanced technology, pose challenges that necessitate strict government oversight to ensure safety and control. Understanding these restrictions and the reasons behind them is crucial for drone enthusiasts and professionals in the photography sector.