Drone photography has quickly become one of the most valuable tools in industries like real estate, construction, and marketing. But one of the most common questions we hear is: How much does drone photography cost?
The answer? It depends. However, we value transparency, so we’re here to explain what goes into drone photography pricing for real estate, construction, and marketing in the southeast.
Let’s break it down simply and clearly so you know what affects drone photography pricing, what services are included, and why getting a custom quote is the best way to find out how much professional drone photography will cost you.
What Goes Into the Cost of Drone Photography?
The cost of drone photography isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here are the main factors that can influence price:
- Type of service (photos, video, mapping, inspections)
- Project complexity (basic shots or detailed flight plans)
- Location and travel time
- Length of the shoot
- Editing requirements
- Licensing and permits
The more complex or specialized the job, the more time and expertise it requires. That’s what pushes prices up or down.
5 Common Drone Photography Services
We offer a wide range of drone services. Here’s a look at what they are and how they can impact the cost.
Aerial Photography (Still Images)
Aerial photography is ideal for clients who need a clear, high-level view of a property or site. It’s a popular choice for real estate listings, commercial developments, and promotional use. Drone photos capture angles that ground-based photography can’t, helping your listing or project stand out. This service is often used for marketing properties, documenting progress, or highlighting key features from above.
- Typically includes 10 to 30 edited high-resolution photos
- Prices start around $250 to $500
- Additional cost if multiple locations or extended flight time
Aerial Videography
Aerial videography offers smooth, cinematic footage that can showcase everything from sweeping landscapes to building details. This is a top choice for clients who want to promote properties, commercial projects, or events with eye-catching motion visuals. Drone video services require extra time for planning flight paths and editing, which impacts the overall price.
- Usually includes 1 to 3 minutes of edited footage
- Prices can range from $400 to $1,200+ depending on complexity
- Additional fees for music licensing, voiceovers, or text overlays
Construction Progress Monitoring
Construction progress photography is one of the most valuable drone services for builders and developers. By capturing consistent images or video over time, clients can track progress, spot issues early, and share updates with stakeholders. We fly the same routes and angles each visit to ensure clear comparisons from one visit to the next.
- May include photo, video, or both
- Often priced as a monthly package starting around $600 to $1,500/month
- Discounts possible for long-term contracts
Aerial Mapping and Surveying
Aerial mapping is a more technical service that provides data-rich insights. This includes drone surveying, 3D modeling, and orthomosaic maps that help with measurements and site planning. It’s perfect for engineers, architects, and planners who need accurate visual records of a site.
- Useful for measuring distances, creating site maps, and planning
- Includes orthomosaic maps, 3D models, and elevation data
- Pricing usually starts around $800 and can exceed $3,000 depending on area size
Roof Inspections
Drone roof inspections are faster, safer, and often more detailed than traditional methods. By using high-resolution images or even thermal sensors, clients can get close-up views of shingles, flashing, or solar panels without sending anyone onto the roof. This service is used by roofing contractors, insurance adjusters, and property managers.
- Often used by roofing companies, property managers, and insurance adjusters
- Pricing can start at $250 to $500
- Extra cost if thermal imaging or high-resolution zoom is required
Pricing by Industry
Let’s look at how drone pricing works in some of our top industries.
Real Estate
Real estate drone photography focuses on showcasing properties from the air. It helps listings stand out in crowded markets and gives potential buyers a better sense of scale and layout.
- Residential Real Estate: $250 to $500 for photo, $400 to $900 for photo + video
- Commercial Real Estate: $600 to $2,000+, especially if it involves multiple buildings, custom routes, or footage over time
Construction
Construction companies use drone photography to document progress, inspect hard-to-reach areas, and keep stakeholders updated. Whether it’s progress tracking, aerial inspections, or mapping, drone imagery improves efficiency and accuracy.
- Progress Updates: Monthly packages from $600+
- Site Surveys and Mapping: $800 to $3,000 depending on scale
- Time-Lapse Projects: Custom pricing based on length of project and frequency of flights
Marketing and Advertising
Marketers love drone footage for brand videos, product launches, and event coverage. These high-impact visuals help companies stand out online and on social media. Aerial videography for marketing adds movement and energy that traditional footage can’t match.
- One-time shoots: $500 to $1,200
- Full campaigns: Custom pricing based on deliverables and timelines
What’s Included in a Typical Drone Shoot?
Every job is a little different, but here’s what you can expect from a typical drone project with us:
- Pre-flight planning and FAA compliance
- Licensed and insured drone pilot
- Aerial images or video footage
- Editing (color correction, cropping, basic motion stabilization)
- File delivery in high-res formats
Add-ons like extra edits, advanced post-production, or next-day delivery can affect final pricing.
Why Custom Quotes Make Sense
You might find companies advertising flat fees. That sounds simple, but it rarely fits your specific project.
Every location, flight, and deliverable is different. A real estate shoot on a sunny day is very different from a commercial site flyover needing monthly updates.
Getting a custom quote ensures you only pay for what you need. You won’t get overcharged for extras you didn’t ask for or underquoted and surprised with add-on fees later.
How to Get a Drone Photography Quote
At Aerial Innovations, we make the process easy. Just tell us:
- Where your project is located
- What you need (photo, video, aerial mapping, etc.)
- When you need it done
- How often (one-time or recurring)
From there, we’ll send you a detailed proposal with timeline, pricing, and scope. Simple, clear, and no hidden fees.
Get a Reasonable Custom Quote for Your Unique Drone Photography Goals
Drone photography and video could be one of the smartest investments for your project. Whether you’re selling a home, managing a construction site, or promoting a brand, the right visuals make a huge difference.
The cost of drone photography depends on many things. Type of service, location, and timeline all play a role. But the best way to find out what it’ll cost for your project is to reach out.
Contact us today for a custom quote and let’s get your project off the ground!