Pictures Over Stillwater Drone School

UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

Pictures Over Stillwater drone school are held at various education venues presenting UAV UAS Drone related topics. These safety and awareness education and outreach activities include introduction, basic, beyond the basics, as well as advanced topics such as aerial photography videography, among others topics. Education and awareness sessions range from large adult community education, high school, individual custom training along with STEM programs  around the greater Minneapolis St Paul Twin Cities metro area and online.

Common Drone Questions Education Safety Topics

2024 UAS UAV Drone Education Awareness Classes

Minneapolis Public Schools Adult Community Education.

Monday May 20, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 1
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Monday June 3, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 2
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Monday March 18, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 1
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Monday May 20, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 2
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Q: Where have you taught classes in the past?
A: Anoka/Hennepin Community Education, Eden Prairie High School, Minneapolis Public Schools Community Education, North Central University STEM,  Stillwater Area Public Schools Community Education,  and Stillwater Public Library among others.

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Wrap Up and Where to Learn More

Visit our Gallery page to view additional related content (still images and video). Visit and like (thanks in advance) our Instagram.com/PicturesOverStillwater page, as well as our Facebook.com/PicturesOverStillwater page (includes interactive 360 panoramic views).

buy prints digital downloads wall art

Browse, shop and buy print, digital downloads, wall art, and other items by clicking here to access our online SmugMug store.

In addition to our SmugMug online store, we also have a FineArtAmerica site where you can shop, buy prints, puzzles, wall art and other items.


Common Drone Questions Education Safety Topics

The following are common drone questions education safety topics for hobby recreational and commercial part 107 operators.

Pictures Over Stillwater Drone School

Common Drone Questions

Q: Why do you need to learn to fly a drone as they are automated?
A: Learn about the National Air Space (NAS) and where you can fly as well as other tips for flying drones safely. Otoh, you still need to learn how to drive a car, get a license even with self driving cars, or at least for now ;).

Q: Do classes include a live demonstration flight?
A: Demonstration flights are weather and other condition dependent.

Q: Can students bring their drone to the classes?
A: Yes.

Q: Where have you taught classes in the past?
A: Anoka/Hennepin Community Education, Eden Prairie High School, Minneapolis Public Schools Community Education, North Central University STEM,  Stillwater Area Public Schools Community Education,  and Stillwater Public Library among others.

Q: How long have you been flying drones?
A: Around 12 years for singles and quads for about eight years.

Q: How long have you been commercial licensed drone operator?
A: Since May 2018

Q: How long have you been waivered to fly at night commercially?
A: I received my 107.29 (daylight waiver) back in December 2018 which was valid until April 21, 2021 when daylight waivers were sunset (e.g. phased out). As of April 21, 2021 for those who have either taken the new initial, or recurrent part 107 test, you are now authorized to fly at night without a waiver (e.g. daylight and night waivers no longer exist).

Q: How hard is it to get certified?
A: Depends on how well you can learn (or memorize). Getting your FAA TRUST  (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) certificate is relatively easy and quick, its free from various organizations such as AMA here. The next step takes more time which is getting your part 107.

UAS UAV sUAS sUAV Drone Safety Fundamental Regulations

Additional Drone Questions and Answers

Q: How many flights have you flown?
A: Many thousands including indoors and outdoors.

Q: How many hours in the air do you have flying?
A: Over 600 hours air time.

Q: How many miles total have you flown drones?
A: Spanning thousands of flights several thousand miles flown.

Q: If I am not going to fly drones for commercial, why get a part 107?
A: Additional experience, you also get access to additional airspace and privileges by being a part 107. Keep in mind that part 107 is often thought of as being commercial license, when in reality, its a category or type of certification that allows you to do more, one of those things being commercial activity.

Q: How much money can you make flying drones?
A: Like many things it depends, keep in mind your costs of equipment, spare batteries, apps, licenses, registration, insurance among other costs that will impact what your earnings will be.

Q: Have you ever flown FPV, what do you think about them?
A: Yes I have, check out our FPV experiences page here. FPV drones are great for those who like the FPV gaming experience, including racing, general recreation, as well as for action cinematography videography indoors as well as outdoors. Keep in mind if you are going to fly FPV outdoors you will need to have a Visual Observer (VO) standing next to you watching the aircraft (drone).

Q: Whats different from flying indoors vs outside?
A: Besides obstacles, biggest difference is you may have poor to no GPS coverage that can impact automated flight modes, in other words, you want to practice your heads up and stick flying skills (or learn to fly FPV).

Twin Cities 2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

Pictures Over Stillwater is involved with Community Education presenting UAV UAS Drone classes at various venues around the greater Minneapolis St Paul Twin Cities metro area as well as online.

2024 UAS UAV Drone Education Awareness Classes

Minneapolis Public Schools Adult Community Education.

Monday May 20, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 1
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Monday June 3, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 2
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Monday March 18, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 1
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Monday March 25, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 2
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Pictures Over Stillwater In Person Training and Consulting

Picture Over Stillwater also provides in-person custom one on one, and group UAS, UAV, Drone classes, seminars, coaching and consulting. Give us a call or send an email to learn more about our drone school, custom education, training, consulting and other drone service offerings.

Drone School Aerial Photography Videography

Common Drone Questions Education Safety Topics

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About The Course Instructor

Courses are lead by Pictures Over Stillwater founder and chief remote pilot Greg Schulz. Greg is an professional FAA Part 107 certified (e.g. licensed) commercial drone operator (e.g. Remote Pilot In Command RPIC). In addition to being FAA Part 107, Greg is also MnDoT aeronautics licensed and insured. His drone flight experience includes having a 107.29 daylight waiver for night flights, 107.41 airspace authorizations to fly in “0” or no fly zones as well as above published altitudes with FAA approval. Greg has accumulated hundreds of drone hours in the air, flown over a thousand drone air miles, spanning thousands of drone flights. As a professional drone operator Greg does projects involving aerial photography, video, photogrammetry (2D/3D model map image survey), inspection and other activity for construction, real estate, events among others, including indoor flights. Greg is also an FAASTeam DronePro representive for Minneapolis region.

UAS UAV sUAS sUAV Drone Safety Fundamental Regulations

Drone School What To Consider When Buying a Drone

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Pictures Over Stillwater Back To School Fall 2020 Drones For Non Dummies Community Education Classes

Additional Resources and Links

faa.gov/uas/  All things FAA Drones/UAS
faasafety.gov/  FAA Aviation & Drone Safety
faadronezone.faa.gov/  Registration & Waivers
https://tinyurl.com/kp9u3rk8  FAA Visualize II (UASFM – UAS Facility Map)
tinyurl.com/72yt6anz  FAA B4UFLY App
https://tinyurl.com/t8wm9p27  FAA Drone TRUST Certificate (Hobby/Recreation)
faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/CourseLanding.aspx?cID=515 Part 107 (small UAS) Recurrent
faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/CourseLanding.aspx?cID=451 Part 107 (small UAS) Initial
Dot.state.mn.us/aero/drones  MnDOT Aeronautic Drone Info
https://tinyurl.com/3venz24c  2022 ASA Remote Pilot Test Prep (Via Amazon)
PicturesOverStillwater.com/school  Drone Education
PicturesOverStillwater.com/droneday  Drone Day info
facebook.com/groups/1860070477555048  MN sUAS FB Group
facebook.com/groups/906285316171698  The Might Drones FPV FB Race Group
facebook.com/groups/1678622262420416  Minnesota FPV Quad Racing FB Group

Drone Day

2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

Pictures Over Stillwater is involved with Community Education presenting UAV UAS Drone classes at various venues around the greater Minneapolis St Paul Twin Cities metro area as well as online. Classes for 2023 have been added for Minneapolis in March and Richfield/Bloomington in June. Click on the following to learn more as well as links for registrations, times and locations.

Twin Cities 2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

FAA National Drone Day 2023 is April 29th

Drone Day 2022

FAA Drone Safety Day 2022 Exhibition St Anthony Village Minnesota

St Anthony Village and New Brighton – Drone Day Exhibition
3301 Silver Lake Rd NE,  St Anthony,  MN (Main Lobby)
11 AM – 1 PM Saturday,  June 18, 2022

As part of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) national Drone Day 2022 event series, St Anthony Village Community Center and Community Education services, along with local Drone professionals have partnered for this in-person exhibition event at the St. Anthony Village Community Center (meet in the lobby of community center).

St Anthony Village Drone Day Exhibition FAA Drone Safety Day 2022 June 18

What Is The Cost, Do You Need To Register?

This event is free and open to the public for those interested in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), aka Drones, to promote safety and awareness of Drones. Watch professional drone demonstrations, get your questions answered, learn about drone safety and FAA drone rules, and get hands-on experience with drones. No registration is required, however you can register here (free) to reserve your spot for attendance as well as get updates for the event.

St Anthony Village Drone Day Exhibition FAA Drone Safety Day 2022 June 18

Where Will This Take Place

Join us along with various drone professionals among others, for this special exhibition event at the St. Anthony Community Center near downtown Minneapolis Minnesota.

St Anthony Village Drone Day Exhibition FAA Drone Safety Day 2022 June 18


Interactive Virtual 360 View of St Anthony Village Venue

Who Is This For, Who Will Be There

This event exhibition is for beginners to professional expertise, from DIY drone builders to FPV freestyle and racers, store-bought, and anyone interested in drones. Regardless of if you or somebody you know has a drone or thinking about getting one, this event is for you.

St Anthony Village Drone Day Exhibition FAA Drone Safety Day 2022 June 18 Drone me to the moon

FAA Safety Team (FAAST) Reps DronePros, along with members of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), among other experienced drone operators, will be on hand to answer your questions, do flight demonstrations outside (weather permitting), and present short seminars (indoors).

Current planned activities include (watch for updates)

✓ Learn about various types of drones for different uses
✓ Talk with the DronePros and others to get your questions answered
✓ Drone safety, regulations, and basic rules of the road (air)
✓ Drone demonstrations (skills, basic flying, search and rescue (SAR))
✓ Skills practice course outside (how well can you fly safely?)
✓ Safety tips, drone license, and registration, airspace and planning
✓ Bring your smart device and take the free online FAA TRUST test
✓ Useful apps including B4UFLY and where to register your drone
✓ Short seminars (signs in community center lobby) including:
11:00AM – Intro to Drones (15 min)
11:30AM – Drone 101 the basics (30 min)

Can You Bring and Fly Your Own Drone?

Yes, however to fly your drone at this event, the drone must pass a safety inspection and be FAA registered if it weighs more than .55 lbs (at takeoff). You will also agree to event safety rules and fly under the supervision of one of our event safety members. We also encourage you to take the FAA The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) online free course prior to the event, or, bring your smart phone device and we can show you how to take the test at the event for those 13 years of age or older.

What If You Want To Get Involved?

Want to get involved and participate in the event more than just an attendee? Want to show or demonstrate something, present a short seminar or show your drone skills, perhaps setup a small FPV race course or something else associated with drones? Get in touch with Mike Bowman or Greg Schulz (contacts below) to get involved.

Contact information where to learn more

Informational Flyer (PDF Download)

Free advanced registration, signup for news and updates click here

General questions, location, times, registration (its free) contact:

Mike Bowman
St Anthony Community Services
612-706-1176  mbowman at isd282 dot org

For other inquires, including how to get involved contact:

Greg Schulz
Pictures Over Stillwater, Minnesota FAASTeam Rep DronePro
612-810-9890   greg at picturesoverstillwater dot com

Additional Resources and Links

faa.gov/uas/  All things FAA Drones/UAS
faasafety.gov/  FAA Aviation & Drone Safety
faadronezone.faa.gov/  Registration & Waivers
https://tinyurl.com/kp9u3rk8  FAA Visualize II (UASFM – UAS Facility Map)
tinyurl.com/72yt6anz  FAA B4UFLY App
https://tinyurl.com/t8wm9p27  FAA Drone TRUST Certificate (Hobby/Recreation)
faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/CourseLanding.aspx?cID=515 Part 107 (small UAS) Recurrent
faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/CourseLanding.aspx?cID=451 Part 107 (small UAS) Initial
Dot.state.mn.us/aero/drones  MnDOT Aeronautic Drone Info
https://tinyurl.com/3venz24c  2022 ASA Remote Pilot Test Prep (Via Amazon)
PicturesOverStillwater.com/school  Drone Education
PicturesOverStillwater.com/droneday  Drone Day info
facebook.com/groups/1860070477555048  MN sUAS FB Group
facebook.com/groups/906285316171698  The Might Drones FPV FB Race Group
facebook.com/groups/1678622262420416  Minnesota FPV Quad Racing FB Group

Twin Cities 2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

Drone School Beginner The Basics

2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

Pictures Over Stillwater is involved with Community Education presenting UAV UAS Drone classes at various venues around the greater Minneapolis St Paul Twin Cities metro area as well as online. Classes for 2024 have been added for Minneapolis in March and Richfield/Bloomington in June. Click on the following to learn more as well as links for registrations, times and locations.

Twin Cities 2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

 

2021 Online & In-Person

Drones for Non-Dummies is a introductory beginner course offered at various Minneapolis St Paul twin cities metro area venues and online. Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) “drones” are growing in popularity and capabilities.

Pictures Over Stillwater Spring 2021 Drone School Community Education Twin Cities Minneapolis St Paul
Spring 2021 Drone School SAPS Beginner Class Demo Flight

Drones are used by recreational hobbyist, commercial, non-profit, government, and public safety agencies. If you or somebody you know have a drone, want one or need to learn more about them, this course is for you.

Pictures Over Stillwater Spring 2021 Drone School Community Education Twin Cities Minneapolis St Paul
Anoka Hennepin Community Education Drone School Demo Flight

Recreational drone hobbyists will gain information on basic operations and a foundation for expanding to commercial operations. You will learn basic safety, rules of the road and air, registration, certification, types, when, how and where to fly (or avoid). Also covered are basic tools, simulators, apps, cameras, commercial considerations, new and emerging regulations including hobby recreational FAA test (TRUST), insurance, practical tips, techniques, and trends. Weather permitting, an instructor-only demonstration flight may be held. Students ages 12-17 are welcome to register with an adult.

Additional Resources and Links

faa.gov/uas/  All things FAA Drones/UAS
faasafety.gov/  FAA Aviation & Drone Safety
faadronezone.faa.gov/  Registration & Waivers
https://tinyurl.com/kp9u3rk8  FAA Visualize II (UASFM – UAS Facility Map)
tinyurl.com/72yt6anz  FAA B4UFLY App
https://tinyurl.com/t8wm9p27  FAA Drone TRUST Certificate (Hobby/Recreation)
faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/CourseLanding.aspx?cID=515 Part 107 (small UAS) Recurrent
faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/CourseLanding.aspx?cID=451 Part 107 (small UAS) Initial
Dot.state.mn.us/aero/drones  MnDOT Aeronautic Drone Info
https://tinyurl.com/3venz24c  2022 ASA Remote Pilot Test Prep (Via Amazon)
PicturesOverStillwater.com/school  Drone Education
PicturesOverStillwater.com/droneday  Drone Day info
facebook.com/groups/1860070477555048  MN sUAS FB Group
facebook.com/groups/906285316171698  The Might Drones FPV FB Race Group
facebook.com/groups/1678622262420416  Minnesota FPV Quad Racing FB Group

Drone School Beyond The Basics

2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

Pictures Over Stillwater is involved with Community Education presenting UAV UAS Drone classes at various venues around the greater Minneapolis St Paul Twin Cities metro area as well as online.

2024 UAS UAV Drone Education Awareness Classes

Minneapolis Public Schools Adult Community Education.

Monday March 18, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 1
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Monday March 25, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 2
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Hobby Recreational and Part 107 – Online & In-Person

Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) “drones” are growing in popularity and capabilities. This course moves beyond the basics looking at drone decision making, flight planning, how to prepare for your FAA Part 107 (commercial) and TRUST (hobby recreational) among other certifications.

Also covered are basic tools, simulators, apps, cameras, commercial considerations, new and emerging regulations, insurance, practical tips, techniques, trends to be aware of. Weather permitting drone demonstration flights may be held. Students ages 12-17 are welcome to attend with an adult. Don’t be a dummy, learn to fly drones safely.

Drone School What To Consider When Buying a Drone

2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

Pictures Over Stillwater is involved with Community Education presenting UAV UAS Drone classes at various venues around the greater Minneapolis St Paul Twin Cities metro area as well as online.

2024 UAS UAV Drone Education Awareness Classes

Minneapolis Public Schools Adult Community Education.

Monday March 18, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 1
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

Monday March 25, 2024 6:00-8:30PM
Drone Aerial Photography & Videography Part 2
Ella Baker School
Learn more and register here.

What To Consider When Buying A Drone

There are many different things to consider when buying a drone besides how much does it cost, how high and how far can it fly. Some considerations among others include:

Some of the topics and considerations include among others:
✓ Whats your budget
✓ Size and form factor
✓ Build DiY or buy turnkey
✓ What are you going to use it for
✓ How are you going to use it (how portable do you need)
✓ Who makes what, who are the vendors
✓ Weight Matters (Registration, Operating Over People OOP)
✓ AI and Obstacle Avoidance
✓ Remote ID (RID) capabilties
✓ Fixed or removable cameras
✓ RGB, IR/Thermo or other cameras
✓ Precision mapping/measuring
✓ App supported devices (e.g. ios, android)
✓ Software app functionality and camera modes
✓ Photo and Video speeds/feeds
✓ FPV or non FPV flying (indoor, outdoor or both)
✓ How much can you afford to lose or crash
✓ Feature, functions, speeds and feeds (camera resolution, 1K, 2K, 4K, 6K, 8K, 12MP, 20MP, frame rates)
✓ Battery life or how long can you fly
✓ Upgrades, accessors, spares
✓ Warranties and service policies
✓ Insurance costs

Not sure what drone is best for you or your needs, give us a call or email, tell us what you are looking to do and we will provide you with our perspectives. Keep in mind that the best drone is the one that fits and meets your needs and budgets vs someone else’s.

UAS UAV sUAS sUAV Drone Safety Fundamental Regulations

FAA Delays Drone RID Enforcement 6 Months

Drone Safety as of September 13, 2023, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) part of the United States of America Department of Transportation (DoT) issued an announcement that operator enforcement of Remote ID (RID) originally to be effective September 16, 2023 is being delated to March 16, 2024. You can read the full announcement here and what it means for UAS aka Drone operators in the US.

2023 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

As part of Drone Safety, Pictures Over Stillwater is involved with Community Education presenting UAV UAS Drone classes at various venues around the greater Minneapolis St Paul Twin Cities metro area as well as online. Classes for 2023 have been added for Minneapolis in March and Richfield/Bloomington in June. Click on the following to learn more as well as links for registrations, times and locations.

Twin Cities 2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

Drone Safety Fundamental Regulations

The following is information about UAS UAV sUAS sUAV Drone Safety Fundamental Regulations. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Small UAV (sUAV), Small UAS (sUAS) also known as “drones” are growing in popularity and capabilities. Drones are used by recreational hobbyist, commercial, non-profit, government, and public safety agencies among others.

In the United States, once your drone takes flight leaving the ground it is considered to be in the National Air Space (NAS) which is managed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) part of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Some considerations when flying a drone recreational for fun as a hobbyist, or as a commercial (e.g. part 107), or for other purposes is where your feet are on the ground, and where in the air is your drone.

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Common Drone Safety Questions

Q: Why are there so many rules, regulations and restrictions for drones?
A: For Safety

Q: What is the difference between recreational hobbyist and commercial?
A: Hobby recreational drone operators are flying just for fun, not for commercial or any benefit to self or from others (monetary or other benefit).

Q: Who has to register drones with the FAA?
A: For hobby recreational drone operators 13 years and older with drones weighing less than 55 lbs and greater .55lbs  you have to register via FAA DroneZone website (here is the link). Cost is $5 for three years and you can register multiple drones with your account number. Note that drones registered for hobby recreational can not be flown for part 107. Also note that registration number needs to be clearly visible on the outside of the aircraft (drone).

For commercial part 107 operators if your drone weighs less than 55 lbs (including less than .55lbs) you have to register via FAA DroneZone website  (here is the link). Cost is $5 for three years per aircraft (each drone requires a unique registration number). Note that drones registered for commercial part 107 can be flown as recreational. Also note that registration number needs to be clearly visible on the outside of the aircraft (drone).

Q: What if your drone weighs 55 lbs or more?
A: For drones weighing more than 55 lbs, or, you want to qualify for sUAS operations outside the US, you hold title to an aircraft/drone in trust, the sUAS owner uses a voting trust to meet U.S. Citizenship requirements use this FAA link for registration.

Q: What are the recreational hobby rules:
A: Check your local regulations for any restrictions on where you can legally fly drones outdoors among other rules. FAA recreational drone rules (e.g. 44809) are found here.

You Are Responsible For Knowing The Rules

Recreational drone operators should also be aware and know that if they intentionally violate safety regulations, and/or operate a drone in a reckless, or careless manner, they could be liable for civil and/or criminal penalties. In addition to knowing the FAA regulations, also know what your local restrictions and rules are. Saying that you did not know the rules is not a viable excuse, you as the drone operator are responsible for knowing where and how to fly safely.

✓ Register your drone with its registration number visible on outside of aircraft and carry proof of registration with your.
✓ Fly only for recreational purposes.
✓ When flying, keep your drone at or below 400 feet above the ground when in uncontrolled airspace (e.g. Class G).

Note that recreational flyers are not allowed to fly above 400′ by combing the height of a man made structure plus 400′ when within 400′ of the structure (this is something that part 107 operators can do).

✓ Obtain authorization before flying in controlled airspace (Class B, C, D and E) via Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) and/or DroneZone.

NOTE: Flying drones in certain airspace is not allowed. Classes of airspace and flying restrictions can be found on our B4UFLY app.

Also note that some federal, state, county and local parks as well as other locations have regulations on flying from (take off, landing) their land or waters. Know where your feet will be on the ground and aircraft in the air.

✓ Keep your drone aircraft (drone) within Visual Line Of Sight (VLOS), or within VLOS of an Visual Observer (VO) who is physically next to you to, and in direct communications with you.

Hint, if you or your VO can no longer visually see the drone without using displays, its out of VLOS, and your are flying Beyond VLOS (BVLOS).

✓ Unless your drone has lighting that allows you to know where it is, its direction and orientation, do not fly at night.
✓ Give way to and do not interfere with manned aircraft.
✓ Do not fly over a person or crowd of people or over a moving vehicle.
✓ Never interfere with emergency response activities including accident response, law enforcement activities, fire fighting, hurricane recovery efforts among others.
✓ Dont fly under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
✓ Dont operate your drone in a careless or reckless manner.

Drone School What To Consider When Buying a Drone

Q: Is there a training test for recreational hobby drone flyers?
A: Not yet, its in the works, visit the FAA recreational website to learn more.

Q: What are the categories of drone operators?
A: Part 107 commercial, 44809  recreational hobbyist.

Q: If you do not get any money to fly a drone, are you still commercial?
A: It comes down to your intent to fly, and benefit (not just money) to you. If you are are flying a drone with intention to just have fun and not do things on behalf of others (even if you do not get paid) or that benefits you in any way, then you do not have to be commercial part 107. Put another way, if you operate a drone within the carve out exceptions for hobby recreational, then you do not have to be part 107. However if you go outside the regulations for hobby recreational, then you would fall under part 107 regulations and need to be part 107 certified. Note that in Minnesota you also need to be licensed by MnDoT (also aircraft/drones registered with them) to perform drone activities on behalf of others.

Q: If Im not getting paid, just taking some photos or video for a friends business, club, association, church group or as a volunteer at a non profit to help with their fund raising or website do I need to be part 107?
A: Yup

Q: If Im just taking photos and using a drone for my own recreation activity, not doing things for others, may be sharing my photos however not selling them, or benefiting someone, do I need to be part 107?
A: Probably not, it comes down to what is/was your intent and derived benefit.

Q: If I am not going to fly drones for commercial, why get a part 107?
A: Additional experience, get access to additional airspace among other things

Q: How much money can you make flying drones?
A: Like many things it depends, keep in mind your costs of equipment, spare batteries, apps, licenses, registration, insurance among other costs will impact what your earnings will be.

Q: How far can your drones fly?
A: As far as I can maintain visual line of sight (VLOS) on them

Q: Drones are fully automated, why learn how to manually fly them?
A: Its not if, rather when technology fails, or when you get into a situation where knowing how to fly and land manually become important. For example when an automated flight app encounters poor or loses GPS coverage and requires a manual or assisted landing.

Q: Can FPV drones be flown outside?
A: Yes, absolutely, however they require at least one other person adjacent to the FPV pilot operator functioning as a Visual Observer (VO) maintaining a direct visual line of sight on the drone, as well as following other FAA drone, uas, uav regulations.

Q: Have you ever flown FPV, what do you think about them?
A: Yes, I think they are great for those who like the FPV gaming experience, virtual reality and action type things. Keep in mind if you are going to fly FPV outdoors you will need to have a Visual Observer (VO) standing next to you watching the aircraft (drone).

Q: Whats different from flying indoors vs outside?
A: Besides obstacles, biggest difference is you may have poor to no GPS coverage that can impact automated flight modes, in other words, you want to practice your heads up and stick flying skills (or learn to fly FPV).

Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

If you or somebody you know have a drone, want one or need to learn more about them, sign up for one of our classes or seminars. Pictures Over Stillwater partners with various Minneapolis St Paul Twin Cities metro public school community education programs providing continuing education from drone basics to advanced topics. Fly safe and fly smart by learning about UAS UAV sUAS sUAV Drone Safety Fundamental Regulations

pictures over stillwater minneapolis st paul twin cities minnesota wisconsin drone services aerial photography stock images prints download for sale
Pony Stadium Drones for Non-Dummies Demo Flight

Resources

 

Pictures Over Stillwater Back To School Fall 2020 Drones For Non Dummies Community Education Classes

2023 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

Pictures Over Stillwater is involved with Community Education presenting UAV UAS Drone classes at various venues around the greater Minneapolis St Paul Twin Cities metro area as well as online. Classes for 2023 have been added for Minneapolis in March and Richfield/Bloomington in June. Click on the following to learn more as well as links for registrations, times and locations.

Twin Cities 2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

FAA Holiday Drone Messaging, Know Before You Fly

Got a Drone for Christmas or know somebody who did? Did you or somebody you known get a drone for Christmas or as another gift? Here’s a link to a great information video from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about knowing what to do before you fly your new drone. Step one is registering it, then knowing the rules of the road and airspace among other tips.


FAA Holiday Drone Messaging, Know Before You Fly
Pictures Over Stillwater Back To School Winter 2020 Drones For Non Dummies Community Education Classes Stillwater Anoka Hennepin

Pictures Over Stillwater Back To School  Fall 2020 Drones For Non Dummies Community Education Classes

Pictures Over Stillwater Back To School Fall 2020 schedule includes additional school districts, times, online and in-person, as well as new classes along with updated content. In addition to Stillwater Area Public Schools Community Education, earlier this year Pictures Over Stillwater added Anoka Hennepin Community Education to our schedule.

For fall 2020 we are excited to welcome additional districts including St Anthony and St Louis Park Minnesota community education to our schedule. Besides additional districts, Pictures Over Stillwater is also adding a new FAA Part 107 Commercial operator test prep class to the schedule as part of Stillwater Area Public Schools Community Education.

In addition, existing class content has also been updated to reflect new and emerging drone regulations for recreational and commercial drone operators among other topics. Note that Stillwater Area Public Schools community education are currently planned for in-person and may be subject to change or onclude online. All other Pictures Over Stillwater fall 2020 classes will be held online.

In-person Stillwater Area Public Schools fall 2020 classes

Stillwater Area Public Schools Adult Community Education drone school
Stillwater Area Public Schools fall 2020 classes include:

Drones – Recreational Use for Beginners (click here to register)
Tuesday, September 29, 2020 – 6:00 to 8:00PM

Note: This is an in person class, may change to online
Stillwater Area High School : PAC – G115 (Health)

Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) “drones” are growing in popularity and capabilities. Drones are used by recreational hobbyists, commercial, non-profit, government, and public safety agencies. If you or somebody you know have a drone, want one or need to learn more about them, this course is for you. You will learn about basic drone safety, rules of the road and air, registration, certification, license, drone types, when, how and where to fly (or avoid). Bring your drone as a guest to participate in the discussions. Students ages 12-17 are welcome to attend with an adult. Don’t be a dummy, learn to fly drones safely.

Drones – Beyond the Basics (click here to register)
Tuesday, October 6, 2020 – 6:00 to 8:00PM

Note: This is an in person class, may change to online
Stillwater Area High School : PAC – G115 (Health)

This course moves beyond the basics looking at drone decision making, flight planning, how to prepare for your FAA Part 107 among other certifications. Also covered are basic tools, simulators, apps, cameras, commercial considerations, new and emerging regulations, insurance, practical tips, techniques, trends to be aware of. Weather permitting drone demonstration flights may be held. Students ages 12-17 are welcome to attend with an adult. Don’t be a dummy, learn to fly drones safely.

Drone Aerial Photography and Video (click here to register)
Tuesday, October 13, 2020 – 6:00 to 8:00PM

Note: This is an in person class, may change to online
Stillwater Area High School : PAC – G115 (Health)

This course is for those who want to learn more about drone-based aerial photography and video (recreational and commercial). Topics covered include rules of the road for aerial photography and video, license and registration, where to fly (and not fly), flight planning and weather, autonomous and manual modes, equipment, hardware, software and other tools. Additional topics include what type of drone and camera equipment are best, as well as accessories and post processing tools. Students aged 12-17 may attend with an adult. Weather permitting a demonstration flight will be flown. Prerequisites: Drones Beyond the Basics or related experience.

Drones – FAA Part 107 Commercial Operator Prep (click here to register)

Monday, October 12, 2020 – 6:00 to 8:00PM

Note: This is an in person class, may change to online
Stillwater Area High School : PAC – G113

This class provides insight and preparation tips for those planning on taking the FAA Part 107 Commercial UAS / UAV / Drone Operator certification test for the first time, or taking the two-year renewal. This is also a good for those who want to learn more advanced drone topics. Class will discuss what is in the test, along with tips on how to study, practice and prepare. Topics include rules, safety, operations, airspace, charts and weather considerations. It is strongly encouraged that students have the ASA Remote Pilot 2020 Test Prep book to follow along during class.

Prerequisites include either Drones Beyond the Basics course or hands on drone operation experience beyond the basics. Part 107 test prep book is available via Amazon (here).

Pictures Over Stillwater Online courses for fall 2020

Oct 10, 2020 Sat 10AM – 1PM – Drone Recreational Use for Beginners (Part I)

Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) “drones” are growing in popularity and capabilities. Drones are used by recreational hobbyists, commercial, non-profit, government, and public safety agencies. If you or somebody you know have a drone, want one or need to learn more about them, this course is for you. You will learn about basic drone safety, rules of the road and air, registration, certification, license, drone types, when, how and where to fly (or avoid). Bring your drone as a guest to participate in the discussions. Students ages 12-17 are welcome to attend with an adult.bb

St Anthony New Brighton registration

Anoka Hennepin registration (Course AL077-3H11-F1)

Oct 24, 2020 Sat 10AM – 1PM – Drone Recreational Use (Part II – Beyond basics)

This course moves beyond the basics looking at drone decision making, flight planning, how to prepare for your FAA Part 107 among other certifications. Also covered are basic tools, simulators, apps, cameras, commercial considerations, new and emerging regulations, insurance, practical tips, techniques, trends to be aware of. Weather permitting drone demonstration flights may be held. Students ages 12-17 are welcome to attend with an adult. Don’t be a dummy, learn to fly drones safely.

St Anthony New Brighton registration

Anoka Hennepin registration (Course AL077-3H11-F1)

St Louis Park registration – coming soon

Congratulations Stillwater Area High School Class of 2020

Learning Links and Resources

The following are some additional resources for learning more about UAS, UAV aka Drones including where and how to fly, equipment, software, tools and more that are covered in our Drones for Non Dummies classes.

✓ FAA UAS/UAV/Drone toolkit for Public Safety & Law Enforcement (website)
✓ FAA Recreational and Hobbyist fliers page
✓ FAA Dronezone page (drone registration, authorization and waivers)
✓ FAA TFR maps page
✓ FAA Visualize It Drone GIS Site page
✓ Minnesota DoT Aeronautics Drone Page
✓ Metropolitan Airport Council (MAC) Drone Page

Suggested Reading

Remote Pilot 2020 Test Prep by ASA via Amazon.com

ASA Remote Pilot 2020 Test Prep drone uas uav

View more links to equipment and information on our resources page

Upcoming Classes

https://stillwaterlibrary.org/2020/05/drones-for-recreation-and-beyond-online-class/

Pictures Over Stillwater Back To School Spring Summer 2020 Drones For Non Dummies Community Education Classes are being presented online during the month of May.

For the spring summer 2020, drones for non dummies community education classes are being presented online in partnership with Stillwater Area Public Schools Community Education.

Coming fall 2020

Via Anoka Hennepin Community Education:

Drones – Recreational Use for Beginners (online via Zoom) Saturday 10AM-1PM October 10th and 24th. Watch for registration information soon.

Watch for upcoming updates on possible future summer online classes, as well as fall 2020 class options.

greg schulz faa part 107 pictures over stillwater minnesota minneapolis drone aerial photography video

Join Greg Schulz, FAA Part 107 (with daylight waiver) and MnDOT Aeronautics licensed UAV / Drone operator and aerial photographer to learn more about Drones in these community education classes.

pictures over stillwater minnesota minneapolis twin cities drones aerial photography video image survey

Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) “drones” are growing in popularity and capabilities. Drones are used by recreational hobbyist, commercial, non-profit, government, and public safety agencies. In addition to more options for drones to meet different budgets, there are also new rules and regulations that apply to recreational hobbyist as well as commercial use. If you or somebody you know have a drone, want one or need to learn more about them, these course are for you (or them).

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Summer 2020 School Year Community Education Courses

For the summer 2020 school year, the following Community Education courses are being offered.

Drones for Non Dummies

Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) “drones” are growing in popularity and capabilities. Drones are used by recreational hobbyist, commercial, non-profit, government, and public safety agencies. If you or somebody you know have a drone, want one or need to learn more about them, this course is for you. You will learn about basic drone safety, rules of the road and air, registration, certification, license, drone types, when, how and where to fly (or avoid). Bring your drone as a guest to participate in the discussions. Students ages 12-17 are welcome to attend with an adult. Don’t be a dummy, learn to fly drones safely.

Stillwater (On-line), Tuesday May 19, 2020, 6-8PM, Register here

pictures over stillwater minneapolis st paul twin cities minnesota wisconsin drone services aerial photography stock images prints download for sale

Drones for Non Dummies – Beyond the basics

This course moves beyond the basics looking at drone decision making, flight planning, how to prepare for your FAA Part 107 among other certifications. Also covered are basic tools, simulators, apps, cameras, commercial considerations, new and emerging regulations, insurance, practical tips, techniques, trends to be aware of. Weather permitting drone demonstration flights may be held. Students ages 12-17 are welcome to attend with an adult. Don’t be a dummy, learn to fly drones safely.

Stillwater (Online), Tuesday May 26, 2020, 6-8PM, Register here

pictures over stillwater minneapolis st paul twin cities minnesota wisconsin drone services aerial photography stock images prints download for sale
Pony Stadium Drones for Non-Dummies Demo Flight

Drone Aerial Photography and Video

This course is for those who want to learn more about drone based aerial photography and video (recreational and commercial). Topics covered include rules of the road for aerial photography and video, license and registration, where to fly (and not fly), flight planning and weather, autonomous and manual modes, equipment, hardware, software and other tools. Additional topics include what type of drone and camera equipment are best, as well as, accessories and post processing tools. Students aged 12-17 may attend with an adult. Weather permitting a demonstration flight will be flown. Prerequisites: Drones for Non-Dummies: Beyond the Basics or related experience.

Stillwater (Online), Tuesday May 12, 2020, 6-8PM

View the full summer 2020 Stillwater Area Public Schools community education course catalog here.

pictures over stillwater minneapolis st paul twin cities minnesota wisconsin drone services aerial photography stock images prints download for sale

pictures over stillwater minneapolis st paul twin cities minnesota wisconsin drone services aerial photography stock images prints download for sale

Wrap Up and Where to Learn More

Don’t be a dummy, learn to fly drones safely.

FAA National Drone Safety Awareness Week 2019 Aerial Photography Video Business

Pictures Over Stillwater Back To School Fall 2019 Drones For Non Dummies Community Education

Pictures Over Stillwater Minnesota St Croix River Valley Twin Cities Videos

Visit our Gallery page to view additional related content (still images and video). Visit and like (thanks in advance) our Instagram.com/PicturesOverStillwater page, as well as our Facebook.com/PicturesOverStillwater page (includes interactive 360 panoramic views).

Pictures Over Stillwater aerial photography video drone uas uav services

buy prints digital downloads wall art

Browse, shop and buy print, digital downloads, wall art, and other items by clicking here to access our online SmugMug store.

In addition to our SmugMug online store, we also have a FineArtAmerica site where you can shop, buy prints, puzzles, wall art and other items.


When in downtown Stillwater, visit our partner Smith + Trade Mercantile where you can buy Pictures Over Stillwater aerial photography postcards among other items.

Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Building Bridges Community
Proud Member Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce

FAA National Drone Safety Awareness Week 2019 Aerial Photography Video Business

2023 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

Pictures Over Stillwater is involved with Community Education presenting UAV UAS Drone classes at various venues around the greater Minneapolis St Paul Twin Cities metro area as well as online. Classes for 2023 have been added for Minneapolis in March and Richfield/Bloomington in June. Click on the following to learn more as well as links for registrations, times and locations.

Twin Cities 2024 UAV UAS Drone Education Classes

FAA Holiday Drone Messaging, Know Before You Fly

Got a Drone for Christmas or know somebody who did? Did you or somebody you known get a drone for Christmas or as another gift? Here’s a link to a great information video from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about knowing what to do before you fly your new drone. Step one is registering it, then knowing the rules of the road and airspace among other tips.


FAA Holiday Drone Messaging, Know Before You Fly

FAA National Drone Safety Awareness Week 2019 Aerial Photography Video Business

November 4-8 2019 is the first annual FAA National Drone Safety Awareness Week (#drones4good) initiative. As a participant in this weeks activities including being part of a free webinar open to the public on November 5, Pictures Over Stillwater has prepared the following non-branded video to showcase and promote drone safety and benefits of using licensed, insured drone operators.

In addition to Aerial Photography and Video, other focus areas during the FAA National Drone Safety Awareness Week included:

4 Nov 2019 – Public Safety 

5 Nov 2019 – Photography – Real Estate – Insurance

6 Nov 2019 – Agriculture

7 Nov 2019 – Our Environment and Package Delivery

8 Nov 2019 – Education

View the following video to learn more about the benefits of using licensed (FAA Part 107 and applicable state licenses), insured drone operators.

Note that Minnesota in addition to FAA Part 107 certification requires an additional licenses from Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDoT) Aeronautics for commercial drone operators doing work for others. Pictures Over Stillwater is FAA Part 107 certified including daylight waiver and various airspace authorizations as well as registered aircraft. In addition to meeting FAA requirements, Pictures Over Stillwater is also licensed by MNDoT for drone operations including aerial photography, video and imaging, as well as insured and registered aircraft.

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Pictures Over Stillwater Back To School Fall 2020 Drones For Non Dummies Community Education Classes

Wrap Up Where To Learn More

Have an event or other activity you are looking for aerial and ground based coverage (still video and photography)? Contact us and we can discuss options to meet your needs.

FAA National Drone Safety Awareness Week 2019 Aerial Photography Video Business

buy prints digital downloads wall art

Browse, shop and buy print, digital downloads, wall art, and other items by clicking here to access our online SmugMug store.

In addition to our SmugMug online store, we also have a FineArtAmerica site where you can shop, buy prints, puzzles, wall art and other items.


When in downtown Stillwater, visit our partner Smith + Trade Mercantile where you can buy Pictures Over Stillwater aerial photography postcards among other items.

Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Building Bridges Community
Proud Member Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce