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Aerial Photography

About Startup Costs

The startup costs provided in this database include an approximate financial investment that will be needed to start the business. This is generalized information and should only be used as a yardstick to determine business startup costs. Your investment will vary based on factors such as equipment, transportation, licensing and permits, operating location, working capital and initial marketing and advertising budgets. Remember a successful entrepreneur is one who carefully researches and plans every aspect of a new business venture, including the financial investment needed to start a business and the working capital required to achieve positive cash flow.

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Business At A Glance

Aerial Photography

Startup Costs: $10,000 - $50,000
Part Time: Can be operated part-time.

About

Franchises Available? No
Online Operation? No

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Take your love of flying and photography to new heights with an aerial photography business.

Business Overview

Aerial photography equipment is available in various styles, including telescopic aluminum masts that can be outfitted with a camera and extended to heights reaching over 100 feet. There are also helium-filled blimps available ranging in size from 5 feet to 25 feet, that can be outfitted with cameras that reach heights of up to 1,000 feet. The blimps are safely operated from the ground by a tether line or remote control. Surprisingly, the blimp option is not very expensive. Good-quality blimps, complete with photographic gear and a transportation trailer, can be purchased new for less than $10,000, or up to as much as $25,000. Regardless of whether you choose to use a telescopic mast or a helium blimp, both can be outfitted with film or digital still or video cameras. Potential clients include government agencies, homeowners, property developers, corporations, marinas, campgrounds, amusement parks, golf courses, outdoor-event organizers, mining and forestry sites, and sporting-event organizers--basically, any person or business that wants or needs aerial photographs of his or her home, building, event or property. It takes a bit of learning to operate the equipment, but the manufacturers listed below do provide basic training. Rates are excellent because this is a highly specialized niche service.