Just as drones for commercial use were getting more popular a few years ago I purchased a giant tripod for low altitude aerial photography. The tripod can reach up to 24 feet high. It's a bit ridiculous and borderline impractical. When it's folded up its about 6 feet tall and weighs a solid 27 pounds and isn't very fun lugging it around.

Drones for commercial use have become more regulated since I purchased the giant tripod and I don't regret my purchase. There are no rules, special insurance or licenses I have to get to use it. It's a niche piece of equipment that doesn't get used often.

I recently shot the brand new Liberty Waste Water Treatment Plant for the construction company's PR use. One of the views they wanted a twilight shot showing the plant. I thought the best way to show this would be to get an aerial photo just above one of the pools to show the reflection of the sky for a mirror effect to create more interest.

Shot from camera, raised roughly 20 feet up. Remotely fired from iPhone.