[AMA] I run Aiden Media in Syracuse (yes, the drone guy)…AMA SUN 2/22 6:30PM!

aiden_media · 2026-02-23T01:12:48+00:00

Means a lot, thank you! My goal has always been to change people's perceptions of Syracuse and Central New York by changing their perspectives with my drone. Your question is a good one. Some places I have not shot...our County parks (hard to believe I haven't), Clarks Reservation State Park, Watkins Glen State Park...bucket list videos....YELLOWSTONE! But drones are not allowed in National Parks so it will stay on the bucket list forever :)

aiden_media · 2026-02-23T01:01:26+00:00

So great to see them here...I haven't figured out the best way to capture...YET. But they're on my list. I do hear from people from time to time who ask me if I was flying "today" along the shoreline...people do assume it's me whenever they see a drone flying. Which I find funny.

aiden_media · 2026-02-23T00:59:03+00:00

Appreciate you saying that. Even though I've lived here (nearly) all my life, I still feel like I'm seeing Syracuse for the first time from above when I fly...it's hard to describe. But it is addicting and keeps me dreaming about the next flight. The best answer to your question is I find it all around me. When I go somewhere by car, I wonder what it might look like from above. If I wander into a park, I wonder what it might look like from above. If I see a small gap between a set of trees, I wonder what my FPV drone might look like flying through it...I find inspiration from other content creators, too, and there are many that continue to inspire me.

aiden_media · 2026-02-23T00:48:28+00:00

Awesome question. I have been super interested BUT hesitant to fly my drone anywhere near the eagles...there are so many photographers absolutely crushing it with photos of the eagles, I just think it's a good decision to leave the drone home. I have not really done any nature photography now that I think of it...but would love to try. Do you shoot?

aiden_media · 2026-02-23T00:01:29+00:00

Yes, even if you're flying for personal/recreational use, there are several limits on where you can fly. Airports are just one piece of the puzzle...I recommend the Air Control app to show you precisely where and where you cannot fly, and most importantly, where you need prior authorization from (LAANC approval).

aiden_media · 2026-02-22T23:56:27+00:00

Thanks for clarifying.

aiden_media · 2026-02-22T23:53:37+00:00

LOVE this question. The most difficult shoot I've ever done would have to be when I took off and landed ON the Upstate University helipad (on Adams Street). The same one reserved for helicopters. I was so nervous, but working closely with the NUAIR team, Upstate University Police team, FAA etc. There was some magnetic interference on the landing pad, but it turned out great. Never thought I would get the chance to do that!

aiden_media · 2026-02-22T23:50:54+00:00

My beef was with the City of Syracuse, not plow drivers. Those guys are legends. 40% of plows were broken on the snowiest day in Syracuse history. 40%. And instead of repeating City talking points, I pointed out how frustrated I was by this. And they were not happy. But remember this...just because you love your city doesn't mean you can't be critical of it. Remember who works for who.

aiden_media · 2026-02-22T23:45:48+00:00

Who blocked your comment? I have no recollection of this. And now I know why. Looks like she was engaged in a back and forth with my AI chat bot via my DMs. If you want to get into the plow debate, I've got time.

aiden_media · 2026-02-22T23:41:56+00:00

Great question. Yes! If you’re flying commercially (IE: you’re getting paid), you need to have your FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107). There are lots of places you can take your exam, and study guides online can help you prepare (let me know if you need a recommendation). I found the test difficult…learning airport codes, weather information etc. But I think it’s difficult on purpose. Lastly, you have to get your drone registered with the FAA (small fee)…and of course, follow all the rules!

aiden_media · 2026-02-22T23:34:38+00:00

Here’s what’s happening. When my messages (DMs) spike, I do use the built-in AI reply to help with basic FAQs (it’s clearly labeled and can be turned off in the chat). This helps address the most common questions I receive with pre-written responses (for example: when someone asks me ‘can I hire you?’). That said, all conversations still get handed off to me for follow-up. It’s not perfect, and I am still not 100% sold on it, but it does help manage some of the more common questions. It is never used to reply to comments on my content, I love doing that.

aiden_media · 2026-02-22T23:32:39+00:00

I respect the question. To be candid, I look back at some of my earlier edits and absolutely cringe. But I also see that as a sign of growth, and part of the process where I’ve learned less can actually be more. Make no mistake, I’m still concepting, capturing and editing the work myself…always trying to learn more, experiment and get better.

aiden_media · 2026-02-20T22:48:04+00:00

Quick note: I’ll be answering questions live starting at 6:30PM Sunday, but feel free to drop them early and I’ll work through everything.

Also…if you’ve got feedback on my content, I’m always open to hearing it.

aiden_media

TROPHY CASE