Whirling Drone gives all a view from above

AJ Mattox has started a new and exciting company called Whirling Drone. It is a photography and videography business that takes aerial photos and footage of events, businesses, real estate, etc. Whirling Drone is capable of capturing indoor and outdoor footage from a bird’s eye view. During an interview with The Graceville News, AJ Mattox said it all started with the purchase of his very first professional drone, a used DJI drone. A purchase he indicated was merely for recreational purposes in the beginning.

Upon realizing the significantly improved quality of footage, photos, and operational control with his professional drone as compared to a cheap one he has played with prior; Mattox knew he was really on to something exciting. He then decided to obtain a license to fly his drone as a professional. Mattox obtained his FAA Part 107 license in order to legally get paid to fly drones to capture footage.

Prior to his newfound hobby, AJ Mattox had no professional training in developing his skills outside of his family ties to the photography industry. As a matter of fact, he had previously attended vocational school to certify as a welder and has been a laser operator for the past 17 years at Johnson Laser Works.

However, as his family has been in the photography business for years, the idea sparked to pair photography with his love for technology, and Whirling Drone was brought into existence. When asked what made him pursue this route in photography, Mattox commented on his love for both technology and photography and his passion on getting the “above” views. He added, “We love showing the vastness and diversity of God’s beautiful country from above. We enjoy capturing breathtaking photos and videos of the stunning landscapes and vibrant life of the Southeast United States.”

AJ Mattox has been targeting small cities when capturing footage to showcase his skills and finished products in hopes of bringing awareness to Whirling Drone. He noted that he “thought it was a cool project” since everyone always captures the bigger cities. Whirling Drone is also available to capture footage of various events. Mattox made it clear that the footage and photos he is allowed to capture are regulated by the FAA. He indicated that these restrictions do allow him to film and photograph events, but he is prohibited to capture footage directly over people. “Part 107 is very strict,” explained Mattox who tries to stay in the regulation to keep his license with integrity. Whirling Drone can capture events such as weddings, festivals and things like that, but Mattox indicated that he is even more restricted by the FAA on larger events like sporting events and others that are affiliated with larger organizations. Mattox further explained that the FAA does not allow drones to fly or shoot footage an hour before or after these larger events. Mattox indicated the importance of hiring a licensed drone company, for the licensing process educates operators of their restrictions and legal requirements.

Whirling Drone is currently targeting customers that want to show off their business or land from an aerial view to do justice to scope of their operations or real estate that is not typically viewed. Mattox went on to note that the video of Tate’s Mini Mall in Hartford, AL that AJ Mattox has done is a great example of this concept. Mattox commented, “Our business is beneficial for showcasing real estate, properties, agriculture, businesses, special events, and so much more from a unique perspective. Capturing aerial photos and videos from various angles and heights provide stunning visuals that everyone can enjoy and experience.”

AJ Mattox has been married to his wife, Seanna Mattox, for fifteen years, and they have been blessed with a beautiful ten-year-old daughter, Madelynn. AJ Mattox noted that both his wife and daughter also love flying drones with him as well. When asked what his favorite videos to capture are, AJ Mattox said he loves to capture sunsets. He went on to explain that the angle from the air is not like any other, offering a complete view of nature’s beauty. When asked what his most popular small-town video is, Mattox said, “it would probably be Bonifay,” which he supposes was so alluring due to the wonderful murals in Bonifay. Seanna took the moment to mention that many of the people they know are from the Bonifay area, and suspects that has a lot to do with the video’s popularity. Seanna said the viewers have enjoyed reminiscing on the place they grew up in, especially the older buildings that are not often seen. Mattox indicated that the video of Graceville was challenging footage to capture because he could not help but show a lot of issues with many of the buildings in the area.

Mattox was pleased to capture footage of Baptist Florida College and Heritage Village. With concerns with the condition of the area, Mattox prioritized capturing Heritage village and the history and culture of the local community while he still could.

AJ Mattox continued giving credit to his wife. “Seanna helps me so much;” said Mattox as he explained that people do not understand how many factors come into play when flying a drone. With Seanna as a visual observer, as labeled by the FAA, she watches out for people, planes, birds, and anything else that needs to be considered when capturing footage and photos. It is clear that the role of a visual observer is very important in keeping the footage within the FAA restrictions and keeping their equipment operational.

Mattox finished the interview wanting to remind the public, “If you would like your special event captured or your business to shine in the spotlight, do not hesitate to send me a message for all the details! You can contact me at whirlingdrone@gmail.com.”

Follow Whirling Drone on some of their journeys as they explore hidden gems, document unforgettable events, and seize the golden moments in time that deserve to be remembered forever. Find Whirling Drone’s aerial adventures on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.

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