How I Got Started: The Journey of Kelly Willis and Willis Aerial Imagery

          Hello, I’m Kelly Willis, the owner, drone pilot, and photographer behind Willis Aerial Imagery. By profession, I am a nurse and currently a nursing professor at the local college in Coos Bay, Oregon. I wanted to share the story of how I embarked on this incredible journey of capturing stunning aerial photos and videos, and how Willis Aerial Imagery came to be.

The Early Days: A Spark of Interest

My interest in flying drones began in 2016 when I first encountered drone technology and was fascinated by the potential of capturing the world from above. However, due to my demanding schedule as a nurse, I was only able to dabble in it sparingly. Fast forward to 2020, amidst the global pandemic, I found myself with a bit more time and the perfect opportunity to revisit my passion. The advancement in technology, with newer and smaller drones, reignited my passion and gave me the tools to explore this hobby more seriously.

The Learning Curve: YouTube University

Determined to hone my skills, I turned to what I call 'YouTube University.' I spent countless hours watching tutorials, learning about drone mechanics, flight techniques, and aerial photography. That summer, I dedicated myself to mastering the craft. I flew over friends' homes, capturing different angles and perfecting my panning shots. I practiced in Coos Bay, filming my car, the coastline, and other objects to get a feel for different perspectives and lighting conditions. This hands-on experience was invaluable and helped build my confidence as a drone pilot.

The Leap: Starting Willis Aerial Imagery

In August 2021, I decided to take the plunge and officially launched Willis Aerial Imagery. The decision was both exciting and daunting. My first real client came through an unexpected source – a recommendation from a patient at the hospital where I worked as a nurse. This client was a game-changer, providing me with three shoots in just two days, despite not having a substantial portfolio to showcase at the time. Their trust and belief in my capabilities fueled my drive to succeed.

Building the Business: The Early Years

The first year was challenging, with only a handful of clients, most of whom were one-time engagements. However, each project was a learning opportunity, and I continued to refine my skills and expand my portfolio. By the second year, I started to gain traction, with a couple of clients returning for repeat business. I focused on delivering high-quality images and videos, understanding the unique needs of each client, and exceeding their expectations.

Gaining Momentum: The Third Year

The third year marked a significant turning point for Willis Aerial Imagery. Word of mouth began to spread about my skills and the quality of my work. This organic growth led to a steady stream of business, with 5-6 regular clients keeping me busy creating high-quality real estate listings. Each new project brought its own set of challenges and opportunities, pushing me to innovate and improve continually. I invested in better equipment and software to enhance my services and deliver even more stunning aerial visuals.

Looking Ahead

Today, Willis Aerial Imagery is thriving, and I am continually inspired by the journey that brought me here. From those early days of experimenting with drones to becoming a trusted name in aerial real estate photography, the path has been incredibly rewarding. I am excited about the future and look forward to capturing many more stunning images from the skies. I also aim to explore new avenues, such as 3D mapping and virtual tours, to offer my clients a comprehensive suite of aerial imaging services.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Whether you are a client, a supporter, or just someone who loves aerial photography, your support means the world to me. Your encouragement and feedback help me strive for excellence and push the boundaries of what’s possible with aerial imagery.

Fly high,

Kelly Willis
Owner, Drone Pilot, and Photographer
Willis Aerial Imagery