Yesenia is a Director of Photography based in both Austin and Houston. She specializes in documentary and commercial work and is experienced with a wide range of production styles; she’s been in the industry since 2012. Prior to being a DP, she owned and operated a fine art print business and had worked with clients such as Campbell Ewald, Ogilvy, TMP Worldwide and many others. During this time, she had the opportunity to take on hybrid projects which included photography and video aspects. That opened her eyes to a whole new way of being creative.
How did you get into being a drone pilot?
Yesenia Rodriguez: In late 2013, my boyfriend had purchased DJI’s Phantom 1 drone. As I watched him fly it around the yard, I thought it looked like fun, so I said, “Let me try….” This particular drone did not have a camera, but it did have a mount for the use of a GoPro. While I did book a few jobs using this drone, the FAA hadn’t yet established rules or guidelines for being a professional drone pilot/operator. But once they did, I studied and took the Part 107 test and passed.
What would you say are the most important skills every drone operator needs to succeed?
Yesenia Rodriguez: Almost anyone can fly a drone, but to me the most important skills a drone operator need are attention to detail, communication and cool under pressure.
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