A few tips & things to think about…
Using a drone for real estate photography in winter can produce stunning, unique visuals—clear air, snow-covered landscapes, and crisp lighting can make properties look magical. However, cold temperatures introduce challenges that require extra planning and care to ensure safe and effective flights. One of the biggest concerns is battery performance: lithium-polymer (LiPo) drone batteries drain faster in cold weather, which means shorter flight times and a higher risk of sudden power loss. Pilots should keep batteries warm before flight—using an inside pocket, thermal bag, or a battery heater—and avoid taking off with batteries that are below their optimal operating temperature.
Winter conditions also affect the drone’s aerodynamics and sensors. Snow, ice, and condensation can interfere with obstacle-avoidance cameras and compass accuracy, so it’s important to perform thorough pre-flight checks and ensure the drone is dry and clear of debris. The denser cold air can actually improve lift, but wind gusts are often stronger in winter, meaning you’ll need to monitor weather forecasts closely and keep manual control skills sharp. If flying near a property with trees, rooftop edges, or power lines, give yourself extra buffer space since depth perception can be trickier against snowy, low-contrast backgrounds.
For real estate photography specifically, winter brings both aesthetic advantages and creative considerations. Snow can brighten scenes and provide clean lines that make architecture stand out, but it can also confuse the drone’s metering system, leading to overexposed images. Using manual exposure settings or bracketing can help capture detail in both the snow and the property. Low winter sun also creates dramatic shadows, so planning shoots around the best light—often midday rather than golden hour—can ensure the home is presented clearly and attractively.
Finally, think about safety and practical workflow. Keep your hands warm so you maintain precise control, bring a landing pad to avoid snow ingestion in the motors, and plan shorter, controlled flights rather than long exploratory ones. With the right preparation, winter drone operations can elevate real estate listings with breathtaking visuals while keeping your equipment—and your fingers—safe.
Thanks for stopping by and please let me know if we can help in any way. Drones have become an important tool in our camera bags, from homes to properties, golf courses to roof & gutter inspections, and last construction progress images. No matter the season, our drones will fly.
Cheers. Jack McIntyre
Servicing Eastern PA, NJ, and DE since 1998. 