7 Things You Didn’t Know You Can Do With a Drone
If there’s one invention that truly represents the future of our modern world, it might just be the drone. Poised to redefine the way we engage in warfare, deliver goods, and provide resources, drones are also changing the way we do something else: have fun.
Though there’s plenty of governmental, business, and practical applications for these flying robots, you don’t have to be Obama (or even Bill Gates) to get in on the opportunities that drone ownership provides. And while you may think personal drone ownership is expensive (it’s not) and just for spying on neighbors and impressing your friends (it’s not), there’s plenty more you a do with a drone than might meet the eye. Versatile and surprisingly affordable, drones can be purchased for under $100 and used for a variety of both fun and pragmatic purposes.
Think you know what it’s like to own a drone? Think again — here are seven things you probably didn’t realize you could do with a drone, courtesy of BrandsMart USA.
1. Go fishing
Early this May, a 26-year-old Australian fisherman made news for catching a nearly 45-pound giant tuna off the coast of New South Wales. While the catch in itself is worth bragging rights, it was the fishing method that really made this story newsworthy — fishing pole aside, the fisherman and his friend used a baited hook-wielding drone to reel in this big kahuna. If you’re looking to upgrade your old-school leisure sporting with some new-school flair, a drone will deliver all the fun, and all the fish.
2. Make your friends jealous
Social network Periscope, which offers users a way to broadcast live-streamed video to followers, recently announced their latest feature: a way to link DJI drones with the user’s account. Thus, users can broadcast live not only from their iPhones — but from the sky, offering a true bird’s eye-view both for themselves and for their followers. Whether you’re streaming a special event, investigating a natural disaster, or just giving your friends a look at the neighborhood, get ready to inspire some serious tech envy via this new, drone-friendly Periscope feature.
3. Compete
Missing the thrill of competing on a Little League baseball field or for your college sports team? Trade in your video games for a new time of competition: drone racing. This on-the-rise sport has quickly become an internationally recognized spectator event, with many tournaments offering live streamed races and six-figure cash prizes. In March, Dubai hosted the first World Drone Prix, which awarded $250,000 to the first-prize winner — a 15-year-old from the UK. During competition, competitors wear specialized goggles that provide a first-person perspective from the drone, allowing them to steer the device through obstacles and designed courses. ESPN drone racing content and competitive leagues are further securing this new sport as one of the best outlets for dedicated drone owners.
4. Propose
Looking for an ultra-romantic and totally geeky way to nail this big life landmark? Do it with a drone. Though there have been a few different proposals since, one of the original newsworthy drone proposal happened in 2013 in none other than the techie capital of the country: San Francisco.
Not only was this an incredibly unique way to present the ring, but it also captured a series of stunning aerial shots of the big moment. This use for drones has become so popular, you can even purchase a drone proposal kit from UK retailer DronesDirect. Pretty sure there’s no way anyone’s no saying ‘yes’ to this kind of proposal.
5. Keep an eye on your kids
It’s a battle most children and parents are familiar with: walking to school. For parents who might not have the time or extra set of hands back at home required to walk your kiddos to school or the bus stop, drones put a new spin on the term “helicopter parenting.” In 2012, dad Paul Wallich used a drone to — literally — watch over his son when he walked the 400 yards to the bus stop from their home. Thus, Wallich proved that it’s not only mom’s that have eyes in the back of their heads — dad’s just might just keep their extra set on a drone.
6. Shoot a film
Earlier this year, the first U.S. Drone Film Festival was held in Oklahoma City after receiving 180 submissions from 44 countries worldwide. The festival was a landmark celebration of how far the drone industry has come, and featured a range of film varying in style and content, including narrative shorts and video travel diaries. Drones present a much less expensive alternative to more traditional camera equipment, yet also offer a greater scope of perspectives and angles that lend themselves to this type of creative project.
7. Herd your animals
Touted as “an Internet first,” farmer and drone enthusiast David Freiheit from Quebec made news by using a drone to herd sheep on a friend’s farm. As visible in the video Freiheit posted celebrating the success, the drone successfully herded sheep from their field back into their barn. For those with sheep or other animals, drones can reduce the workload and amp up the fun on your farm.
Already pulling out your wallet to order a new personal drone? There are a few things you should know before you buy. Check out the full drone lowdown from BrandsMart USA below.