FAA Certifies Encore Drone Pilot

Encore Multimedia Cinematographer Earns FAA Drone Pilot Certification

Encore Multimedia, a full-service marketing firm, located in East Texas, is proud to announce that Cinematographer David Stanton has earned his certification as a drone pilot under the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) new regulations for commercial video and photography by small, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Stanton, a member of the Encore staff since 2012, earned the special rating by successfully passing the FAA’s commercial drone licensing examination at LeTourneau University’s School of Aviation and Aeronautical Science in Longview, Texas.

“Incorporating aerial cinematography through drone technology in a broadcast commercial or video provides a unique perspective that can be highly impactful,” said Encore President Dean Waskowiak. “That’s why we felt having a certified pilot on staff, flying our DJI Inspire camera/drone for client projects, was critical.”

Encore Multimedia was the first agency in East Texas to purchase a quad-copter for the purpose of shooting professional-grade video and has pioneered its utilization in many areas, including advertising. Encore’s current drone, the DJI Inspire, is equipped with a camera capable of shooting both RAW photos and 4K cinema-quality video.

The FAA instituted its Small UAS Rule (Part 107) in summer 2016, and the qualifying exam includes questions on weather, restricted airspaces and tower communication, much of which is also required learning by professional aviation pilots.  

“Anyone today can purchase a drone/camera unit, however, it is important that the pilot flying the drone meets all federal and safety regulations as well. We have the experience, professional equipment and the knowledge to provide the best possible aerial work possible, resulting in high-quality video and photography,” Waskowiak added.