SERIES ONE – EDITION ELEVEN
In the eleventh edition in the Faces behind the business series we caught up with Sam, owner of Stratus Imagery, creators of inspiring aerial photography.
When Did you first get into the industry?
I’ve always been interested in photography, but in early 2010 my wife bought me a drone which really peaked my interest in using it  to get that look above the rest.After lots of practice a local farmer asked me to do some filming of his harvesting process to use commercially, it was at that point I realised the potential in this industry, so I sat down and looked at the regulation regarding flying drones and collecting data It soon become apparent you need permission from the civil aviation authority to fly drones in congested areas and to use a drone for commercial gain. In 2014 I got permission from the CAA to operate drones for commercial use, known then as a PfAW which is now called a PfCO Permission for commercial operations.
How long have you worked at Stratus Imagery and what is your job role?
I founded Stratus Imagery in 2015 and as the owner I mange everything from flying the drones, getting the correct permissions in place, land owners consent, film office permissions, contacting air traffic control, carry out RAMS the list is long, when you actually carry out a task only a small part of the commission is flying the rest is paperwork.Â
What is Stratus Imagery’s Ethos?
Stratus Imagery carry out legal and compliant drone imagery giving our clients the confidence that we get all the correct permission in place for any commission we receive.Â
What’s the best advice you could give to anyone looking at working in your line of work?
Regulations are Changing all the time in this industry and you have to keep up to speed with that anyone thinking of becoming a drone operator come up with a business plan. Who are your customers, what data are you offering etc. If you think you can make it work, jump at it. I get to take flight in some amazing locations. One of my biggest highlights was only this year working with the Culture Liverpool team and the Royal Navy to be the only operator permitted to fly around HMS Prince of Wales while docked in Liverpool but it was a bit intimidating having two navy officer standing next to you watching your every move.Â
What do you love most about Liverpool?
The people, the history and the maritime connections.
If you could describe your business in 3 words what would they be?
Professional, Aerial, Imagery.
Stratus Imagery are also selling 2021 Wall calendars, see Liverpool as only the liver birds do, and £1 from every calendar sale goes to the Whitechapel Centre, helping the homeless of Liverpool. You can purchase yours here www.stratusimagery.co.uk/product/calendar-2021/
Are you a business in the Liverpool City Region and want to feature in our Faces Behind the Business series? Contact us now by emailing hello@explore-liverpool.com or get us on WhatsApp on 07568 532 537
