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

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Product Photography Studio Techniques for Capturing the Perfect Shot

Posted on 07/01/2024 by stlouisaerialphotography

In today’s visually driven market, high-quality product photography is crucial for businesses aiming to make a strong impression. The right imagery can set your brand apart, captivating potential customers and driving engagement. For decision-makers responsible for selecting photography and video production services, understanding advanced studio techniques can significantly impact the effectiveness of your visual content. This article delves into expert techniques for capturing the perfect shot in a studio setting.

Mastering the Fundamentals

Before exploring advanced methods, it’s essential to solidify the foundational aspects of product photography:

Lighting: The quality of light can make or break a photo. Soft, diffused lighting helps to eliminate harsh shadows and highlights, creating a balanced and appealing image. Employing a combination of key lights, fill lights, and backlights can enhance the depth and dimension of the product.
Backgrounds: A clean, distraction-free background ensures that the product remains the focal point. White backgrounds are popular for their simplicity, but colored or textured backgrounds can add a creative flair and highlight different product features.
Composition: The arrangement of elements within the frame is critical. Use the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing techniques to guide the viewer’s eye towards the product, creating a harmonious and engaging composition.

Advanced Studio Techniques

1. Focus Stacking

Focus stacking involves taking multiple images of the same subject at varying focus distances and merging them in post-production. This technique ensures every part of the product is in sharp focus, resulting in a detailed and crisp final image. It’s particularly beneficial for products with intricate details that need to be highlighted.

2. Lighting Modifiers

The use of lighting modifiers such as softboxes, reflectors, and diffusers can drastically improve the quality of light. Softboxes create soft, even illumination, minimizing harsh shadows. Reflectors bounce light back onto the product, filling in shadows and adding depth. Diffusers soften the light, making it more flattering for reflective or glossy surfaces.

3. Creative Angles and Perspectives

Exploring various angles and perspectives can add a unique touch to your product photography. Shooting from above, below, or at unconventional angles can showcase the product’s features in an engaging manner. Macro photography, which captures extreme close-ups, is excellent for highlighting fine details and craftsmanship.

4. Post-Production Mastery

Editing plays a vital role in product photography. Software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom allows for color enhancement, exposure adjustment, and imperfection removal. Techniques such as color grading, retouching, and background removal can elevate an image from good to great. Consistent editing styles help maintain a cohesive brand identity.

5. Utilizing Props and Context

Incorporating props can provide context and scale, aiding customers in visualizing the product’s use. However, it’s crucial to ensure that props complement rather than overshadow the product. They should enhance the story you’re telling and add to the product’s appeal.

Why Choose St Louis Aerial Photography?

At St Louis Aerial Photography, we combine technical prowess with creative expertise to deliver exceptional product photography. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we offer a comprehensive suite of services:

Studio and Location Video and Photography: Whether you need controlled studio shoots or dynamic on-location photography, our team is equipped to handle it all.
Editing and Post-Production: Our skilled editors are adept in all types of media and software, ensuring your photos are polished and professional.
Licensed Drone Pilots: For unique and captivating aerial perspectives, our licensed drone pilots can capture stunning visuals.
Custom Productions: We tailor our services to meet your specific media requirements, ensuring your brand stands out in a crowded market.
Repurposing for Branding: We specialize in adapting your photography and video content for various platforms, maximizing your reach and impact.
Private Studio Setup: Our studio is ideal for small productions and interview scenes, with ample space for props to enhance your setup.
Comprehensive Support: From private custom interview setups to providing sound and camera operators, we have everything you need for a flawless production.

With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area, St Louis Aerial Photography is your trusted partner for all your corporate photography and video needs. Our commitment to excellence ensures that your products are showcased in the best possible light, driving engagement and boosting your brand’s image.

By employing these advanced studio techniques and partnering with a professional service like St Louis Aerial Photography, you can significantly elevate your product photography. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you capture the perfect shot for your brand.

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}

Frequently Asked Drone Questions

Posted on 02/22/2023 by stlouisaerialphotography

WHO IS FLYING THE DRONE?

Our team of drone aircraft is flown by highly qualified, FAA certified, and certified pilots to provide the utmost safety at the site.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE SERVICE?

We offer basic packages that come with raw video files of the flight, breathtaking photos and more. If you’d like a custom package, contact us and we’ll give you a fast, detailed quote.

Aerial Photography and Video | St Louis

WHERE IS THE DRONE FLIGHT SERVICE BASED?

Professional Drone Services is based in St. Louis We can quickly deploy an FAA certified pilot to many of the nearby cities in the Missouri and southern Illinois region. Additionally, we are willing to travel to just about any location where we would be requested!

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY FILES?

If you choose one of our aerial packages, you’ll get your photography and/or video files by the next day. If you choose a custom quote, we’ll discuss the turnaround time before the project gets underway.

Construction progress for FedEx in Marion, IL

DO YOU STILL FLY IN BAD WEATHER?

That depends on the forecast. We do not fly in the rain. We love capturing clouds, but want to give you the best images possible, so sometimes our pilots might need to reschedule due to the weather.

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

Drones used in construction will keep you informed and on schedule for your project.

Posted on 10/07/2022 by stlouisaerialphotography

Drones are changing how construction job sites are managed by providing progress photos, stockpile quantities, and other data. Instead of using outdated Google maps, a drone can provide an up-to-date view of a property.

BJC Queeny Tower construction progression with drone video and photography

For example, we can capture aerial images at different altitudes to provide you with a bird’s eye view of what your current tenants would see out of every window.

Zoning meetings can be conducted without waiting for the zoning commission to send a representative. Use drones and maps to save time, money, and accelerate the approval process. It’s all about saving time, cash, and speeding up the approval process.

Document the job site’s condition (and the roads leading to it) before you start working. We can record the condition of the roads before your trucks and heavy equipment arrive.

Capture the interior progress of your project. We offer comprehensive interior drone footage services. This is a great way to offer progress insights, provide a view of your interior and keep stakeholders informed as your job progresses.

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

Two person drone crew downtown St Louis Arch and Eads bridge video shot.

Posted on 03/10/2022 by stlouisaerialphotography

Have your event live streamed from the drone! Our drone crew can live stream your next event via drone. With a high-definition 4K video camera and GPS stabilized drone platform, our drones are a great way for audiences to experience their next event with live streaming drone technology. Stream the video from the event to multiple monitors across your venue.

Nowadays, ceremony’s are often parlayed into a media event for public relations purposes. We can furnish a ground video production crew, a still photographer and a drone crew for your next event. Deliverables are pleasantly received and worked wonderfully for the marketing communications department. Still images, video clips and printed materials for mailings and website communications.

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

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.