I see things differently...
More Than a Drone in the Air
Shots Over Frederick grew from my background in professional photography, video production and aviation into a business focused on using aerial imaging for more than simply creating a beautiful photograph.
Today, I provide professional drone imaging and data services for real estate professionals, developers, construction teams and commercial clients throughout Maryland and the surrounding Mid-Atlantic region.
Whether I'm documenting the progression of a construction project, creating a 2D orthomosaic or 3D photogrammetry model, or photographing a property for market, the goal is the same: create imagery that is accurate, useful and visually strong.
Experience Behind the Camera
Long before I became a drone pilot, I spent decades working professionally in photography, television, radio and the performing arts. That background shaped how I approach visual storytelling and taught me that the equipment is only part of the job.
I bring that same attention to composition, detail and communication to every SOF project. I plan the flight, capture the imagery and process the work myself. Nothing is handed off to an anonymous production service.
Professional Aerial Operations
I am an FAA Part 107 certified remote pilot and approach every project with safety, planning and airspace compliance in mind. Before a flight, I evaluate the location, airspace, weather and requirements of the assignment so the work can be completed safely and efficiently.
From recurring construction documentation and photogrammetry mapping to commercial and residential property photography, clients work directly with me from planning through delivery.
Shots Over Frederick is based in Frederick, Maryland, serving clients throughout Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and select areas of the Washington, DC region.
Let's get together and collaborate.
— James
- James
I’ve spent more than 35 years working in the creative worlds of performing arts, radio, television, photography and video—but aviation has been an interest for nearly as long.
I grew up around broadcasting because my father worked in radio, and I was also the kid who wanted to go to the airport just to watch airplanes. Over the years that interest progressed from RC aircraft and flight simulators to drones.
I began flying small recreational drones around 2010, when they were still essentially flying toys. As the technology developed, I began seeing something much more interesting: a new imaging platform that combined two things I already understood—aviation and visual storytelling.
In 2016, I began exploring how drones could be used professionally. I earned my FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, and not long afterward, Shots Over Frederick was born.
What began primarily as aerial photography has grown considerably. Today my work includes real estate and commercial imaging, construction progression documentation, and 2D and 3D photogrammetry mapping. The technology has changed, but my approach hasn't: understand the assignment, plan carefully, capture it properly, and deliver work that serves a purpose.
I still enjoy creating a beautiful aerial photograph. I just also happen to enjoy turning hundreds of them into something a client can actually measure.
— James