When I first started Shalimar Studios over a decade ago, I never imagined that one day I’d be piloting drones across Arizona’s stunning landscapes and beyond. My journey from traditional portrait photography to becoming an FAA certified drone pilot has transformed not just my business, but the entire way I tell visual stories.
How I Discovered Drone Photography
As a professional photographer, I initially didn’t see the need for a drone in my portrait-focused business. Everything changed during a trip to Iceland when friends brought their drones. Watching them capture the dramatic terrain from above sparked something in me. I returned home, invested in my first drone, and haven’t looked back since.
Why Aerial Perspective Matters
Living in the Arizona desert, I’m surrounded by incredible landscapes, but seeing them from above reveals patterns and stories invisible from ground level. My Mavic 2 Pro delivers 22-megapixel photos and 4K video while folding down for easy travel—perfect for capturing everything from Arizona’s diverse terrain to humanitarian documentary work abroad.
Women Who Drone: Building Community
As Brand Ambassador Director for Women Who Drone, I’ve connected with female pilots worldwide while representing the organization at conferences. Women make up a smaller percentage of drone pilots, but together we’re proving we’re just as capable as anyone in the industry. It’s about creating opportunities and diverse perspectives that benefit everyone.
Commercial Drone Services in Arizona
At Shalimar Studios, my FAA Part 107 certification allows me to offer comprehensive aerial photography for:
- Real estate and property marketing
- Tourism and hospitality content
- Event coverage from unique perspectives
- Documentary and humanitarian projects
- Landscape and nature photography
- Commercial brand content
My photography background combined with drone piloting skills means I understand composition, lighting, and storytelling from every angle.
Ready to Elevate Your Visual Content?
Whether you need stunning aerial photography for your Arizona property, compelling documentary footage, or commercial drone services, let’s discuss how we can bring your vision to life from a new perspective.
