Meet Adrian O’Dell | Drone Pilot & Videographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Adrian O’Dell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Adrian, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
One of the most critical decisions I made as an experienced drone pilot specializing in video production, apart from choosing to work for myself, was to invest in high-quality equipment and stay current with the latest technology. In the world of aerial photography and videography, having the right tools can make a world of difference.

Here are a few reasons why this decision was pivotal to my success:

1. Image Quality: High-end drones with advanced camera systems capture stunning, high-resolution footage that sets you apart from the competition. Clients are often looking for the best quality, and investing in top-tier equipment allows me to consistently deliver impressive results.

2. Stability and Reliability: Professional-grade drones tend to be more stable in the air, which is crucial for smooth and professional-looking cinematic shots. Reliable equipment reduces the risk of crashes, ensuring that projects go off without a hitch. If something does happen in the field, backups are readily available to keep things moving along.

3. Advanced Features: The latest drones come equipped with a wide range of features, including obstacle avoidance, intelligent flight modes, and advanced camera settings. These capabilities allow me to capture shots that were once impossible and impress clients with creative and dynamic content. Adding Apple PRO RES to the mix has given me advanced video capabilities that generate pretty awesome results.

4. Regulatory Compliance: Keeping up with the latest drone technology also means staying informed about changing regulations and safety standards. This knowledge is crucial for maintaining a legal and ethical drone operation, which builds trust with clients. Safety is key and advanced preparation helps keep projects on time and within FAA regulations.

5. Efficiency: Up-to-date equipment often improves efficiency and simplifies workflows, saving time and resources. This translates to increased productivity and the ability to take on more projects. Advances in drone technology have led to shorter flight times with improved results.

6. Market Competitiveness: In the competitive field of videography, having cutting-edge equipment gives you a competitive edge. Clients are more likely to choose a pilot with the latest technology, as they know it leads to better results. The market is flooded with low-quality gear that produces low-quality results.

Investing in quality equipment was not just a one-time decision but an ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of the industry. It allowed me to build a strong reputation and client base, leading to continued success in the world of visual content and video production.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What Sets Me Apart from Others?

I’ve been flying drones since 2016 and learning the intricate details of the industry along the way. One thing that is important to me is to not just be another guy with a drone. Over these 7 years, I’ve learned a great deal about photography and video and have committed to keeping current with the industry through education and personal exploration. To that end, I have achieved several industry certifications including Roof Inspection, Drone Mapping and Modeling, and Thermal Inspections, and am in the process of getting a thermography license. Over the last 3 years, I have focused on growing in the Video Production and Visual Marketing space, combining my background in Digital Marketing with my passion for using drones in today’s visual ecosystem.

For me, I’m always learning. I refine my process for mapping projects to create the most accurate outputs and improve my flight skills to capture cinematic reels and footage for my marketing clients. Combining that with significant investments in state-of-the-art gear, there are very few projects I can’t handle.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The Places we Would Eat

It’s a cliche answer but I enjoy cooking and eating at home. Not to say that we wouldn’t go out to eat a few times and see the town.

Let’s start with areas that we would go for breakfast:

Another Broken Egg
Katalina’s
First Watch

Lunch Locations

Cumin & Curry
Afra Grill
Rusty Bucket

Dinner Spots

Rye River Social
Watershed Distillery
Kitchen Social

As far as places to see and things to do, we would have to go to Easton for the mall experience and possibly see a movie. We could even do the escape room experience if we have time. The Botanical Gardens and Scioto Mile would be a must as well. Other than that we would hang out with different friends at their houses or have people over to ours. The people make the biggest difference for me.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My wife Miranda O’Dell and my father Alvin O’Dell are the biggest part of my support. They keep me motivated and challenge me to do my best.

Website: https://www.aroaerial.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aroaerial/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aroaerial/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/inc_aro

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aroaerial/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/aro-aerial-mansfield

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFrFvFySARshCFODBBUNMBQ