Drone Inspections: How to Spot Solar Panel Problems Fast

Posted on 02/23/2025 by stlouisaerialphotography

As the demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to rise, businesses and organizations are increasingly investing in solar power. However, to maximize the efficiency and longevity of solar panels, regular inspections and maintenance are crucial. Traditional inspection methods can be time-consuming and costly, but drone technology is revolutionizing the process. St. Louis Aerial Photography specializes in professional drone inspections, helping businesses identify and address solar panel issues quickly and efficiently.

Drones collect high-resolution images and thermal scans to detect abnormalities such as hot spots, dirt accumulation, and wiring faults.

The Importance of Solar Panel Inspections

Solar panels are exposed to various environmental conditions that can affect their performance over time. Common issues include:

Cracked or damaged panels – Hail, falling debris, or manufacturing defects can cause structural damage.
Dirt and debris accumulation – Dust, bird droppings, and other particles can reduce energy absorption.
Defective wiring and connections – Electrical faults can disrupt energy production and pose safety hazards.
Hot spots – Overheating due to shading, defective cells, or electrical imbalances can lead to permanent damage.
Inefficient panel alignment – Improper angling or misalignment can reduce energy efficiency.

How Drone Inspections Work

Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging sensors provide a comprehensive view of solar panel arrays. This technology enables quick identification of potential problems without the need for manual, labor-intensive inspections.

Aerial Imaging & Thermal Scanning
- Drones capture high-resolution images and videos of the entire solar panel installation.
- Thermal cameras detect temperature variations that indicate malfunctions such as hot spots, wiring issues, or shading problems.
Data Analysis & Issue Identification
- Advanced software processes the collected data, identifying inconsistencies and pinpointing areas that require maintenance.
- Engineers and maintenance teams can then take precise corrective actions, reducing downtime and operational costs.
Cost-Effective & Time-Efficient
- Drone inspections take a fraction of the time compared to traditional manual methods.
- Reduced labor costs and improved efficiency lead to higher returns on investment for businesses relying on solar energy.

Benefits of Drone Inspections for Businesses

Enhanced Safety – Avoids the risks of sending personnel to climb on rooftops or large-scale solar farms.
Minimized Downtime – Quick identification of faults leads to faster repairs and optimized energy output.
Scalability – Drones can efficiently inspect solar panel installations of any size, from small businesses to large commercial solar farms.
Comprehensive Reporting – Detailed visual and thermal analysis provides clear insights for decision-makers.

Why Choose St. Louis Aerial Photography?

At St. Louis Aerial Photography, we understand the critical role that solar energy plays in today’s business environment. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we have the right equipment and creative crew service experience for successful image acquisition. Our licensed drone pilots utilize state-of-the-art technology to conduct detailed aerial inspections tailored to your specific needs.

Beyond drone inspections, we offer full-service studio and location video and photography, as well as editing, post-production, and branding solutions. We specialize in repurposing photography and video branding to help businesses gain more traction in their marketing efforts. With extensive experience in all media file types, styles, and accompanying software, we can optimize content for multiple platforms.

Our private studio lighting and visual setup are ideal for small productions and interview scenes. For larger productions, our spacious studio can incorporate props to enhance your set design. Whether you need a private custom interview studio setup, sound and camera operators, or specialized drone operations—including indoor flights—our team has everything required to make your next production seamless.

Since 1982, St. Louis Aerial Photography has collaborated with businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies across the St. Louis area. Our expertise in commercial drone services ensures precise and efficient solar panel inspections, allowing you to maintain optimal energy performance. Contact us today to learn how our professional drone services can benefit your solar energy system.

314-604-6544

^{stlouisaerialphotography@gmail.com}

Drones Redefining Stockpile Reporting

Posted on 01/15/2024 by stlouisaerialphotography

In recent years, the use of drones in various industries has soared to new heights. From agriculture to construction, these aerial marvels have found their way into numerous sectors, offering innovative solutions and transforming the way businesses operate. One of the areas where drones are making a significant impact is in stockpile reporting. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the world of stockpile reporting and explore how experienced professionals at St. Louis Aerial Photography are leading the way in utilizing drones for this essential task.

Drones can cover large areas quickly, reducing the time and effort required for data collection.

What is Stockpile Reporting?

Before we dive into the role of drones in stockpile reporting, let’s first understand what stockpile reporting entails. Stockpile reporting is a critical aspect of inventory management for various industries, including construction, mining, and agriculture. It involves the measurement and documentation of stockpiled materials such as gravel, sand, coal, or agricultural products. Accurate stockpile reporting is essential for inventory control, financial planning, and compliance with regulations.

Traditionally, stockpile reporting was a labor-intensive process that involved manual measurements, surveying equipment, and a significant amount of time and resources. However, the introduction of drone technology has revolutionized this practice, making it more efficient, accurate, and cost-effective.

The Role of Drones in Stockpile Reporting

Drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), have become indispensable tools for stockpile reporting for several reasons:

1. Aerial Perspective

Drones provide a unique vantage point by capturing high-resolution aerial images and videos. This perspective allows for a comprehensive view of the entire stockpile, eliminating the need for time-consuming ground measurements.

2. Speed and Efficiency

Traditional stockpile reporting methods can be time-consuming and require significant manpower. Drones can cover large areas quickly, reducing the time and effort required for data collection. This efficiency translates into cost savings for businesses.

3. Precision and Accuracy

Modern drone technology is equipped with advanced sensors and GPS systems that ensure precise measurements. The data collected by drones is highly accurate, reducing the margin of error associated with manual measurements.

4. Safety

Stockpile reporting often involves hazardous environments, such as construction sites or mining operations. Using drones eliminates the need for workers to enter these dangerous areas, enhancing safety protocols.

How St. Louis Aerial Photography Excels in Stockpile Reporting

At St. Louis Aerial Photography, we take pride in being at the forefront of utilizing drones for stockpile reporting. Our experienced team of drone pilots and scriptwriters understands the unique requirements of stockpile reporting and has the expertise to deliver exceptional results. Here’s why our company stands out:

1. State-of-the-Art Equipment

We invest in the latest drone technology and equipment, ensuring that we have the best tools for the job. Our drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced sensors to capture precise data.

2. Creative Crew Service Experience

Our team includes creative professionals who can craft compelling narratives and scripts for stockpile reporting videos. We understand that effective communication is key to conveying the significance of the data we collect.

3. Full-Service Studio and Location Video Recording

We offer both studio and on-location video recording services, providing flexibility to our clients. Whether you need to capture stockpile data in a controlled studio environment or in the field, we have you covered.

4. Photography Expertise

In addition to video recording, we excel in photography. Our photographers can capture stunning images of your stockpiles, showcasing their size and scale.

5. Customization and Repurposing

We understand that different industries have unique needs when it comes to stockpile reporting. Our team can customize video productions to meet your specific requirements. Furthermore, we can repurpose the data and media we collect to gain more traction across various platforms.

6. Proficiency in Drone Media Software and Editing

Our team is well-versed in all file types and styles of drone media software and editing. We can transform raw data into informative and visually appealing reports.

Experience the Difference with St. Louis Aerial Photography

As a full-service drone video creation company, St. Louis Aerial Photography has worked with many companies in the St. Louis area to create ground and aerial videos for their communication needs. We have experienced drone videographers, producers, and editors to create insightful volumetric reporting.

In conclusion, drones are redefining stockpile reporting by offering speed, accuracy, and safety advantages over traditional methods. At St. Louis Aerial Photography, we have the right equipment, creative crew service experience, and expertise to provide top-notch stockpile reporting solutions tailored to your industry’s needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can transform your stockpile reporting processes and elevate your business.

Experience the future of stockpile reporting with St. Louis Aerial Photography.

314-604-6544

^{stlouisaerialphotography@gmail.com}

Enhancing Safety and Accuracy: Drones for Infrared Inspections

Posted on 12/16/2023 by stlouisaerialphotography

In recent years, the use of drones has revolutionized various industries, and one area where their impact is particularly significant is in infrared inspections. As an experienced drone pilot and infrared technician at St. Louis Aerial Photography & Video, I am excited to share insights into how drones are transforming the field of infrared inspections, enhancing safety, and improving accuracy.

By deploying drones equipped with infrared cameras, inspectors can access hard-to-reach or hazardous areas without endangering themselves.

The Power of Infrared Inspections

Before we delve into the role of drones in infrared inspections, let’s understand the importance of this technology. Infrared thermography, commonly known as thermographic inspections, utilizes infrared cameras to detect and visualize thermal patterns on the surface of objects and structures. These thermal patterns can reveal hidden issues such as electrical faults, energy inefficiencies, moisture intrusion, and structural defects.

Traditionally, infrared inspections required technicians to physically access the areas of interest, which often posed significant safety risks, especially in industrial settings. Additionally, manual inspections were time-consuming and less comprehensive. Enter drones, which have transformed the way we conduct infrared inspections.

Drones in Infrared Inspections

1. Enhanced Safety

Safety is paramount in any inspection process, and drones have significantly improved safety standards in the field of infrared inspections. By deploying drones equipped with infrared cameras, inspectors can access hard-to-reach or hazardous areas without endangering themselves.

For instance, inspecting high-voltage power lines or the roofs of large industrial facilities used to involve climbing and putting technicians at risk. With drones, we can now fly over these areas, capturing thermal data from a safe distance. This not only protects the inspectors but also reduces the downtime associated with safety procedures.

2. Increased Efficiency

Drones have also revolutionized the efficiency of infrared inspections. Manual inspections are often labor-intensive and time-consuming, requiring inspectors to meticulously scan every square inch of a structure. Drones equipped with thermal cameras can cover large areas quickly, providing a comprehensive overview of the thermal landscape in a fraction of the time.

3. Cost-Effective

Infrared inspections with drones are not only efficient but also cost-effective. Traditional methods may require significant manpower and resources. With drones, you can achieve the same or even better results with fewer personnel, reducing operational costs. This cost efficiency makes infrared inspections accessible to a wider range of industries and businesses.

4. Accurate Data Collection

Accuracy is crucial in infrared inspections, as the data collected is used for critical decision-making. Drones equipped with high-resolution thermal cameras capture precise thermal imagery, ensuring that the data is reliable and actionable. This accuracy is especially valuable in industries such as building maintenance, energy auditing, and predictive maintenance.

5. Versatility

Drones are incredibly versatile and can adapt to various inspection scenarios. Whether it’s inspecting solar panels on a commercial building, assessing the integrity of wind turbine blades, or identifying water leaks in a large industrial facility, drones can be customized to meet specific inspection needs.

St. Louis Aerial Photography & Video: Your Infrared Inspection Partner

At St. Louis Aerial Photography & Video, we have positioned ourselves as a leading full-service infrared drone production and post-production company. Our team of experienced drone pilots and technicians is equipped with state-of-the-art thermal imaging equipment to provide accurate and insightful reporting.

Full-Service Studio and Location Video Recording and Editing

Our capabilities extend beyond infrared inspections. We offer full-service studio and location video recording and editing services. Whether you need an informative video showcasing your facility’s infrared inspection process or a comprehensive report presentation, our creative crew has the expertise to deliver compelling content.

Customized Video Productions

We understand that different industries have unique reporting needs. That’s why we specialize in customizing video productions to meet diverse requirements. Our experience spans across various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, energy, and more. We tailor our services to ensure that your specific needs are met.

Repurposing for Maximum Traction

Repurposing your video productions can maximize their impact. Our team is skilled in repackaging and repurposing content to reach a wider audience. Whether it’s creating shorter clips for social media or extracting key insights for internal use, we help you leverage your investment in infrared inspections to gain more traction.

Expertise in Infrared Media Software and Reporting

In the realm of infrared inspections, we are well-versed in all file types and styles of infrared media software and reporting. We ensure that the data we collect is not only accurate but also presented in a format that is easily understandable and actionable.

Call to Action

As a full-service video creation company, St. Louis Aerial Photography & Video has worked with many commercial businesses in the St. Louis area to create their building infrared reports. We have experienced drone videographers and producers to create insightful, accurate reporting. Our commitment to safety, efficiency, and accuracy makes us your ideal partner for all your infrared inspection needs.

In conclusion, the marriage of drones and infrared technology has opened up new possibilities in the field of inspections. The enhanced safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness offered by drones make them an invaluable tool for businesses and industries looking to ensure the integrity of their assets and facilities. At St. Louis Aerial Photography & Video, we are not just embracing this technology; we are leading the way in delivering top-notch infrared inspection services. Contact us today to discuss how we can elevate your infrared inspection processes and deliver actionable insights that drive informed decision-making.

Contact us now to schedule your next infrared inspection and experience the difference that expertise, cutting-edge equipment, and creative solutions can make.

314-604-6544

^{stlouisaerialphotography@gmail.com}

St Louis Aerial Photography for AB InBev Hardees television commercials

Posted on 01/22/2019 by stlouisaerialphotography

The casual observer’s understanding of what drones can do is mostly informed by the way they’re used to make movies, television shows and commercials.

In the early days of drone use, filmmakers quickly realized how useful these nimble devices were for close-up action shots. Drones proved especially handy for filming moving scenes.

Drones are used to shoot group party scenes from above, allowing audiences to peer voyeuristically into characters’ lives. Even as da Vinci was perfecting one way of seeing a face, he was dreaming of other ways of looking. No wonder he wanted to fly, perhaps less for the physical rush than for the thrill of seeing the world from above.

We have the technology and experience to fly for all kinds of Television Productions, whether it is for Newsreels, TV Drama or Documentary.

St Louis Aerial Film Production Crew on set

Although Aerial Film & Video is our specialty, we can so so much more. We have the skills and equipment required to deliver a full video package on the ground, supported with aerials. Shooting in beautiful 4K, we can edit and deliver for you so you don’t have to go anywhere else. We can also work with your chosen production company or provide you with the clean raw footage for your own use.

314-604-6544
stlouisaerialphotography@gmail.com
Robert Haller, Drone Specialist

St Louis Aerial Photography, Video and Stock Footage

Posted on 08/01/2018 by stlouisaerialphotography

Film Production
Feature, indie, shorts, commercials, music videos. We shoot for a myriad of different productions, producers and advertising agencies, as well as directly with the client.

Live Events
We don’t only capture live events, concerts, and sports, we create actual onsite productions that tell your story and engage your audience

Real Estate
Showcase your real estate and give your potential customers a first hand view at their property and neighborhood.

At the end of the day, the most important factor in realizing your creative vision is the skill of the team behind the technology, which is why our crew includes some of the most experienced pilots and camera specialists in the industry.

St Louis Aerial Photography, Video and Stock Footage

314-604-6544
stlouisaerialphotography@gmail.com
Robert Haller, Drone Specialist

Drones, Airplanes and Helicopters | Aerial Photography

Posted on 06/20/2018 by stlouisaerialphotography

St Louis Aerial Photography specializes in low altitude, high resolution aerial photography services. We utilize customized unmanned drone aircraft as our camera platforms. This, in conjunction with GPS electronics, the latest cameras, and a gyro stabilized brushless gimbal, provide an aerial platform for capturing stunningly clear high resolution video, photo, panorama, and orbital.

Our unmanned drone aircraft can be deployed quickly with minimal equipment. Our aerial images are captured from altitudes anywhere from 100 to 400 feet. This lets us obtain images from angles and perspectives which full-sized aircraft cannot. Because of its small size, the unmanned drone aircraft can safely take-off and land in tight areas. It is also quiet and unobtrusive. Browse our website to better understand how we can help you elevate your next project for an impressive presentation for your website and marketing video tools.

We can also provide traditional airplanes and helicopters for your shoot.
We have two professional pilots and photographers. We own our own Cessna 177 Cardinal and we use the latest in high-resolution digital cameras, and technology, so we have the right equipment to capture exactly the view you need. Our senior pilot has been flying for over 40 years with more that 15 of those in the Aerial Photography Business. He keeps up to date on the latest in Aerial photography practices and digital technology by his regular contributions and attendance at seminars and conventions.

Our other pilot has been flying for 14 years, has trained at photography schools, and attended professional seminars on digital photograph enhancement techniques. His specialist expertise in photography and digital artwork combine to give you the best product available in the market.

314-604-6544
stlouisaerialphotography@gmail.com
Robert Haller, Drone Specialist

St Louis Aerial Video B-Roll Production and Drone Photography

Posted on 10/19/2017 by stlouisaerialphotography

We are often hired to produce branding films for many firm’s upcoming trade shows, website and social media channels. In many branding videos, we showcase the employees and feature the company’s innovations.

We film most interviews and b-roll with the latest video gear available. Often we also shoot High Definition aerial drone video footage on the client site for b-roll. We also worked with location news stations to license news footage in the branding productions.

St Louis Aerial Drone Photography and Video Production. Two person crew.

Our in-house creative team can enhance your images, clip your videos, or produce full-scale production videos. Be sure to specify what you’re looking for – and we’ll be happy to help.

314-604-6544
stlouisaerialphotography@gmail.com
Robert Haller, Drone Specialist

Drone Aerial Photography and Video Production

Posted on 12/12/2016 by stlouisaerialphotography

Our drone crew utilizes the latest in small drone technology including GPS and gyro-stabilized flight control systems to deploy sensors capturing high quality images used in asset management. We are a technical services company assisting customers interested in precision aerial photography, construction progress, real estate and industrial property marketing.

Personal safety & protection of property is our first priority. Pre-flight planning, inspections and preflight checklists are part of every unmanned aerial photography flight. While flying the aircraft, our pilot always has visual contact with the equipment. While the navigator directs the shots. A thorough inspection of all equipment is conducted before and after each flight.