Staying up to date with all that's going on in the drone industry is a challenge. New products and services are being launched all the time; partnerships are announced on a weekly basis, and innovation is non-stop. It's enough to make your head spin.
For pilots working in the industry and enthusiasts thinking about turning their hobby into a profession, it can be tough to know where to source news, analysis, and inspiration.
Lucky for you there are loads of accounts and websites out there that cater to all pilots, whether you're looking for tips and advice or the latest news and in-depth commentary.
Here are a few sites, accounts and resources you should consider tapping into...
Skylogic Research
Led by industry analyst Colin Snow, Skylogic Research offers content, research and advisory services to companies and individuals in the commercial drone space.
Part of that involves publishing regular reports that offer insight into how the market is shaping up. But Founder and CEO Colin Snow can also be found on Twitter (@DroneAnalyst), sharing his thoughts on the latest industry news.
You can visit the Skylogic Research site here.
Commercial Drones FM
Want to stay up to date with what's going on in the industry during your commute or morning run? There are several drone podcasts out there you can listen to. One of our favorites is Commercial Drones FM, hosted by Ian Smith.
Each episode features an in-depth conversation with a leading figure in the industry. It's insightful, candid and often entertaining. Last month DroneBase CEO Dan Burton was on the other side of the microphone. Check it out if you haven't already!
You can follow the Commercial Drones FM account on Twitter to get updates when a new podcast is posted (@DronesPodcast)
Sally French
Sally French, also known as The Drone Girl, has a popular industry website and a big social media following. She covers drone reviews, pilot advice, analysis and more.
The site is a great place to visit for genuine thoughts on new products to market and trending topics, and offers a good middle ground for enthusiast pilots keen on getting into commercial work.
Sally is definitely worth following on Twitter if you don't already (@TheDroneGirl).
DroneBase
Sure, call us biased, but it wouldn't be a list of the best industry accounts to follow without a plug for our very own blog and Twitter account.
As well being your go-to for pilot-focused pieces, industry analysis, and breaking news, the DroneBase blog is also the best place to find out what the company is up to, whether that's pushing on with our innovative Augmented Reality platform or announcing industry partnerships.
Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@DroneBase) if you don't already.
UAV Coach
UAV Coach is a great starting point for anyone who wants to learn more about drone technology and its potential with a view to becoming a commercial operator.
The site, run in part by founder Alan Perlman, offers industry news, in-depth guides and a community forum for pilots to share their experiences and advice.
UAV Coach also offers Drone Pilot Ground School, an online test prep course for commercial drone pilots seeking to pass the FAA's Aeronautical Knowledge Test for a Remote Pilot Certificate. You'll need to pass the FAA's test if you want to fly your drone for money.
Ready to move from enthusiast to professional? If you choose to enroll with UAV Coach, use the code DRONEBASE50 to get $50 off the $299 price.
You can follow Alan on Twitter here (@UAVCoach).
DroneLife
Dronelife has been a hub for global drone industry news, reviews, advice, and insight since 2013. More than 5,000 articles later, the platform remains one of the industry's go-to news sources.
Aside from providing industry news on a daily basis, Dronelife features interviews, tips for enthusiasts and more.
The news publication also has a Twitter account that publicizes all stories published, which you can follow (@Drone_life)
Commercial UAV News
Another great follow for drone industry news is Commercial UAV News, the publishing arm of annual industry event Commercial UAV Expo.
The site has regular features, in-depth interviews, and analysis from the excellent Jeremiah Karpowicz and co.
You can follow Commercial UAV News on Twitter (@ExpoUAV) for a regular dose of industry insight.
DJI / DJI Enterprise
If you're looking for inspiration and interesting examples of commercial use cases, keep tabs on DJI and DJI Enterprise's social media and blogs.
DJI Enterprise (@DJIEnterprise) has regular case studies, highlighting the work of first responders, conservation projects, and more. The company's enthusiast-focused account (@DJIGlobal) is always on hand to offer hints, tips, and inspiration for pilots.
Dronestagram
If you haven't heard of Dronestagram, it's basically the place where drone pilots go to show off. It's a social media photo sharing site for drone pilots, and is populated with stunning aerial images from all over the world.
Looking for inspiration, ideas and drone creativity at its finest? Have a browse through the Dronestagram website or follow the platform's account on Twitter for regular updates (@Dr0nestagram).
So that's a variety of social media accounts and websites you should check out for all things drone. Ready to take your skills to the next level? Find out more about becoming a DroneBase Pilot today.
