We’ve published several articles about the art and technology of shooting mobile video from above, for example news of the Drone Film Festival and a report about drones used to study ocean pollution.  We’re enthusiastic about drone-based cinematography. But we recognize that it can be dangerous. Happily, there’s a  new website–KnowBeforeYouFly.org—devoted to helping novices fly safely and within the law. “Know Before You Fly” is a collaborative effort involving the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International, the Small UAV Coalition, and the Federal Aviation Administration.

The site has a lot of information including a section on responsible flying and another on legalities (operators must keep unmanned aircraft in their sight).

We recommend this educational endeavor.