Lawrence Nixon: Vermont Drone Operator Offering an Aerial Perspective

How did you start your business, and what was your inspiration?

I started Drone VT LLC in 2023 as a way to combine my interest in photography with the unique perspective that drone technology can provide. What began primarily with aerial photography has grown into a business offering professional drone photography, traditional photography, and drone video services. I enjoy finding new ways to help businesses, communities, real estate professionals, and organizations tell their stories visually.

What's your favorite part about what you do and why?

My favorite part is seeing familiar places from a completely different perspective and then being able to share that perspective with others. Whether I’m photographing a property, a community event, a Vermont landscape, or a local business, I enjoy creating images that people can actually use and connect with. I also like that every project is different and often requires a combination of creativity, planning, timing, and problem-solving.

Describe a recent project, client success story, or achievement that you're especially proud of.

One project I’m particularly proud of was working with the Town and Village of Swanton to create aerial photography and video of several community locations, including Hog Island in the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge. The imagery was intended to help document and showcase these areas for community planning, education, and promotion. Projects like that are especially meaningful to me because I’m not simply creating attractive images—I’m helping document the community where I live and providing imagery that can serve a larger purpose.

What should potential clients know before hiring someone in your field?

For drone work, clients should make sure the person they hire is properly FAA Part 107 certified and insured. There is much more involved than simply putting a drone in the air. Airspace, weather, safety, property conditions, and the type of imagery the client actually needs all have to be considered. I also think clear communication before the shoot is important. Understanding how the client plans to use the photos or video helps me plan the flight and create imagery that is useful rather than simply impressive.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your business, your process, or how people can work with you?

Drone VT is based in Swanton and works with clients throughout Vermont and northeastern New York. I provide professional drone photography, traditional photography, and drone video for real estate, businesses, events, community and tourism projects, property documentation, inspections, and other specialized needs. I work closely with clients before each project to understand what they are trying to accomplish, then plan the photography around the location, lighting, weather, safety, and intended use of the final images. I’m FAA Part 107 certified and insured, and all finished work is delivered digitally.