Sunrise Drone Over San Francisco

There’s something I really love about flying the drone right at sunrise, before the Bay Area wakes up. The city is quiet, the roads are empty, and it’s a totally different energy than the middle of the day. When the first light starts to hit, I get the same rush I felt the first time I ever flew. That little “clip high” is what keeps me excited about shooting. Every takeoff feels like a chance to find something new, and I never know exactly what kind of shot I’m going to come home with.

A lot of my favorite flights aren’t even tied to a project. Sometimes I’m just out there because it’s fun and it keeps me inspired. Those clips end up in my library and usually find their way into future edits. They remind me why I love doing this in the first place.

Google Maps’ immersive view has actually become one of my favorite ways to plan shoots. I can scout a spot from different angles, check the elevation, and even see what the lighting might look like at different times of day. It makes it so much easier to time things right.'

For me, flying isn’t just about getting a pretty shot. It’s the whole process. Exploring new spots, chasing light, and seeing the Bay Area from angles most people never get to see. There’s so much out here to capture, and I’m always looking forward to the next launch.