The AVS Journal
What to Include in Your Drone Photography Booking Brief
A useful drone photography brief gives AVS the property location, intended image use, important features and practical access details. It should describe the information the photographs need to communicate while leaving flight decisions to the operator.
Provide a precise location and a reachable contact
Include the full address, building or unit details, gate instructions and the name of someone available during the appointment. For a site with several entrances, explain which one should be used. Mention unusual access arrangements early. A map pin can help orientation, but it should not replace the written address or verified property information.
Explain the marketing purpose
State whether the images are for a listing gallery, property brochure, presentation or social media. Mention any important crop or orientation requirements. Then identify two or three features the aerial coverage should explain. This is more useful than requesting a dramatic view without saying whether the priority is the home, land or surrounding setting.
Flag constraints without prescribing unsafe solutions
Tell AVS about tall trees, nearby works, animals, busy shared spaces or other relevant conditions. The operator will assess weather, airspace and flight feasibility. Avoid making access promises on someone else's behalf. If aerial capture is essential to your launch, discuss timing and alternatives rather than assuming a specific day is guaranteed.
Example: a gated listing with a separate garage
A concise illustrative brief could state the address, gate contact, launch deadline and two priorities: show the garage's relationship to the house and explain the rear courtyard. Attach verified reference information if annotations are required. There is no need to specify flight heights or a detailed flight path yourself.
Send these details before booking
- Address, site contact and entry instructions.
- Image destinations and any crop requirements.
- Two or three specific coverage priorities.
- Deadline and conditions that may affect access or capture.
Frequently asked questions
Should I provide reference photographs?
Yes, when they explain the intended information or visual style. Treat them as references rather than a guarantee that another property's angle or conditions can be reproduced.
Do I need to plan the flight route?
No. Explain the marketing objective and relevant site facts. Leave the route and operational decisions to the person responsible for conducting the flight.
