How Much Should You Pay for Drone Photography in Melbourne?

Drone photography’s not just for showing off cool aerial shots. It’s a tool plain and simple. If you’re in construction, real estate, or you’re on a marketing team trying to get some solid visuals, chances are you’ve looked into drone services. And then, the obvious question pops, how much is this going to cost me?

Typical Costs of Drone Photography in Melbourne

There’s no set-in-stone figure. Generally, you’re looking at anywhere from $500 to $3,500. Sometimes more. It all depends on what you need, how long it’ll take, and whether the location’s straightforward or a bit of a pain.

Here’s what affects the price:

1. Time and complexity : Quick job? Few hundred bucks. Large-scale site with multiple days and deliverables? You’ll be on the higher end.
2. Access and location headaches : If the site’s hard to get to, requires flight approvals, or sits near controlled airspace in Melbourne, that’s extra paperwork and time. That costs more.
3. Gear : Some ops fly $1,500 drones. Others fly rigs worth $15K. Newer drones offer crisper shots, smoother footage, better dynamic range. But yeah, that better gear isn’t free.
4. Post work : Don’t forget editing. If you’re expecting files to be colour graded, labelled, trimmed or delivered in a specific format, that’s more hours in front of a screen.
   
   

Also, make sure your operator is licensed and insured. That’s non negotiable. If they’re not, walk away.

What Are You Actually Paying For?

It’s not just about pretty aerial shots for the ‘gram.

1. It's about site updates that make sense : Want to track progress over months? Drones give you a proper birds-eye view of how your build’s tracking. Cuts down the “he said, she said” on site.
2. It's about proposals that win work : Everyone submits drawings. Not everyone includes a slick 60-second flyover.
3. Fewer people on site : Need a roof inspected? Or to map out a boundary? You don’t need three workers and a ladder anymore. One op, one drone. Done.

Finding a Decent Operator

Don’t overthink this, but don’t just hire the cheapest either. Here’s how to sniff out someone who knows what they’re doing:
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1. Have they worked in your industry? Someone who’s shot a million weddings might not be the right fit for construction documentation.
2. Got a portfolio? Real work, not just promo videos. Ask to see raw files if you want to get a sense of quality.
3. Do they turn up on time, follow process, communicate clearly? You’ll know pretty quick if they’re legit.

Melbourne’s Drone Rules Are No Joke

Flying in Melbourne comes with CASA rules, no-fly zones, permit red tape—especially if you’re near an airport or want to fly above crowds. Your drone op should handle all that without you needing to chase them.

Real Estate: Drones Help Sell Property, Simple as That

If you’re selling, aerial shots show scale, street appeal, proximity to parks or beaches, all stuff buyers care about. One overhead shot can do what five ground shots can’t.

Don’t Be Blinded By Flashy Tech

Drones are getting better every year. But just because someone has the latest model doesn’t mean they know how to use it properly. Focus on output, not model numbers.

And yep, they’re greener too

Less driving to site. Less setup. Less stuff. That’s good news for your carbon footprint.

The last thing to remember, cheap is rarely good and super expensive isn’t always better. What matters is whether your operator understands the job and delivers what you need, on time, without fuss. That’s the sweet spot. 

Want a quote? Get in touch. Tell me what you need, and I’ll price it up for you.