Islay Drone Photography & Videography

Professional aerial photography and videography across Islay and Jura. As a CAA-certified drone pilot based permanently on Islay, I provide stunning aerial content for distilleries, hotels, property developers, and tourism projects. With deep local knowledge of Islay's landscapes, weather patterns, who to contact for permissions and the best locations to fly, I deliver broadcast-quality aerial footage with the flexibility and responsiveness that only an island-based operator can offer.

Operating a drone on Islay requires more than just flying skills - it demands local knowledge that can only come from living here. I know which locations offer the best perspectives at different times of day, where to find shelter from the Atlantic winds, and most importantly, who to contact for access permissions across private land, distilleries and estates.

Being island-based means no ferry cancellations, no accommodation costs, and complete flexibility with weather windows. When conditions are perfect for aerial filming, I'm ready to go immediately. If the weather turns, we can reschedule without the expense and logistics of bringing a mainland crew back over.

This local expertise translates directly into better footage, smoother shoots, and significant cost savings for my clients.

I hold a full CAA drone operator certificate and A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC), allowing me to operate commercially throughout the UK with enhanced flying privileges. All flights are conducted in full compliance with CAA regulations, with comprehensive public liability insurance covering all aerial operations.

Safety is paramount. Every shoot includes a thorough site assessment, risk evaluation, and adherence to all airspace restrictions. I operate within all legal frameworks governing drone operations in Scotland.

Whether you need aerials near sensitive locations, over crowds, or in challenging weather conditions, I have the qualifications, insurance, and experience to operate safely and legally.

I offer flexible drone services to match your project needs and budget - from simple aerial filming through to complete brand films with full post-production.

Raw Aerial Footage Only
Fly-only service where I capture the aerial shots you need and provide the raw footage for your own editing. Ideal if you have in-house editing capabilities or are working with another production company.

Drone + Editing
Aerial filming with colour-grading and basic editing to deliver ready-to-use clips. Perfect for social media content, property listings, or straightforward marketing needs.

Full Production Service
Complete brand films combining aerial footage with ground-level videography, professional editing, music, graphics, and final delivery in multiple formats. The full end-to-end service for premium content.

Flexible Booking
Hourly Rate: For quick shoots or specific shots
Half-Day: Up to 4 hours filming time
Full-Day: Up to 8 hours, ideal for multiple locations or waiting for optimal conditions

How far in advance should I book?
For peak season (Fèis Ìle period), book 3-6 months ahead. Off-season projects can often be scheduled within 1-2 weeks, depending on weather forecasts. If you're needing something last minute though, please do reach out in case I have a window to help.

What about weather conditions?
Islay's weather can be unpredictable, but being local means I can be flexible. I monitor forecasts closely and can launch quickly when conditions are ideal. Wind speeds above 25mph, heavy rain, or poor visibility will ground flights for safety reasons.

Where can you fly on Islay?
Most of Islay is accessible for drone operations, though some areas require specific permissions specifically around the airport and the RSPB reserves. I'm familiar with all airspace restrictions, distillery security requirements, and access protocols across the island.

Do I need special permissions?
For flights over private land or distillery property, permissions are required. I handle all permission requests and coordinate with landowners and estate managers on your behalf.

What's the turnaround time?
Most projects are delivered within 1-2 weeks of filming. Rush delivery is available for urgent deadlines, particularly during festival season.

What will I receive?
High-resolution still images (suitable for print and web) and/or professionally edited 4K video footage, colour-graded and ready to use. Files are delivered via secure download.

What's included in the cost?
All flights, image/video processing, colour grading, and basic editing are included in all rates, except piloting only. Travel across Islay is included - no ferry costs or accommodation charges.