03 March 2025

By Adam Shew

I grew up in the coastal town of Brookings, Oregon, a place surrounded by towering evergreens, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking ocean views. From an early age, I was fascinated with anything that moved fast—RC cars, boats, helicopters—you name it. If it could zoom around my backyard, I wanted it. But little did I know that this childhood fascination with remote-controlled vehicles would eventually evolve into a deep passion for drone piloting.

Today, I live in San Francisco, where I attend the University of San Francisco, studying Engineering while also playing Division 1 baseball for the USF Dons. Go Dons! Between balancing academics and baseball, I was looking for a hobby that would help me escape the fast-paced city life and break free from my repetitive routine—something that would keep me mentally grounded in creativity. That search ultimately led me to the world of FPV (First-Person View) drones, and it completely transformed my perspective.

Discovering FPV

The first time I saw an FPV drone video, I was hooked. The sheer speed, the precision of the maneuvers, and the immersive experience of flying from a first-person perspective—it was like nothing I had ever seen before. It felt like being a fighter pilot, minus the very real danger of immediate death upon crashing. I knew right away that I had to get my hands on one.

It all began with the DJI RC Controller 1, a Christmas gift from my parents. With it, I started honing my skills in Liftoff, a drone simulator that allowed me to practice various maneuvers. Once I felt confident in my abilities, I took the leap and invested in the DJI Avata 1—my gateway into the FPV world. This decision completely transformed how I experienced the landscapes and cityscapes I had always known, offering an entirely new perspective from the sky. Flying an FPV drone didn’t just allow me to see these places again—it allowed me to experience them in a whole new way. Suddenly, even the most familiar locations felt brand new from the skies. The ability to maneuver through tight spaces, skim over the ocean, or dive down cliffs was unlike anything I had ever felt before.

Building My Portfolio 

Once I got comfortable flying, I knew I wanted to take it further. I had been watching cinematic FPV reels on social media for months, and I decided it was time to create my own. That’s when Shotzbyshew was born. I started my Instagram page (@shotzbyshew) as a way to showcase my growing portfolio of work, and before I knew it, I was fully immersed in the FPV drone community.

From photography to FPV videography, real estate aerial shots to tower inspections, I began expanding my skill set and pushing the limits of what I could do with my drone. Each flight was a learning experience, an opportunity to master new maneuvers, refine my video editing skills, and improve my ability to compose the perfect shot.

Getting My Part 107 License

While flying drones was an exhilarating hobby, I soon realized I could take it to the next level. I decided to earn my Part 107 license, allowing me to legally fly commercially and turn my passion into a profession. Passing the exam was a challenge, but it was an essential step in growing as a drone pilot. Now, I can offer my services for paid gigs, opening up opportunities in real estate, event coverage, and commercial cinematography.

One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been the ability to merge art and technology. The thrill of flight combined with the creative storytelling aspect of cinematography has given me a sense of purpose beyond just flying for fun.

My Favorite Shot 

Of all the places I’ve flown, one shot stands out as my absolute favorite. It was at Ocean Beach in San Francisco, just as the sun was dipping below the horizon. I captured a surfer catching a perfect wave, silhouetted against a fiery orange and pink sky. The light, the motion, and the raw energy of the moment came together in a way that felt almost surreal. That video, which is available on my Instagram, embodies everything I love about FPV drone flying—speed, beauty, and perspective.

The Gear That Fuels My Flights

Right now, I’m flying the DJI Avata 2, a major upgrade that allows me to capture high-quality FPV footage with even more precision and clarity. The technology behind these drones continues to evolve, and with every new piece of equipment, I find new ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Having the right gear is crucial, but it’s the skills and creativity behind the flight that truly make a shot come to life.

Growth as a Pilot

Over the course of my FPV journey, I have learned so much—not just about drone piloting, but about photography composition, video editing, and the importance of storytelling. Every crash has been a lesson. Every difficult shot has pushed me to refine my technique. Every video I’ve edited has taught me more about pacing, music synchronization, and crafting a compelling visual narrative.

But perhaps the biggest lesson I’ve learned is patience. FPV flying isn’t easy. It takes hours of practice, trial and error, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. Mastering smooth movements, maintaining control at high speeds, and ensuring the best camera angles all require dedication and perseverance. But the reward? It’s absolutely worth it.

Dreams for the Future 

While I’m still early in my drone career, I have big goals for the future. My dream is to work with major brands like Red Bull, X Games, or GoPro—companies that thrive on high-energy, action-packed visuals. The idea of capturing extreme sports, adventure travel, and high-stakes action through FPV drones excites me beyond words. I want to push the boundaries of what FPV cinematography can achieve and continue to grow as a creative professional.

Additionally, I hope to expand my work beyond just social media and commercial gigs. I want to contribute to larger projects—whether it’s documentaries, feature films, or live sporting events. The possibilities for FPV drones are endless, and I plan to explore every avenue.

A Journey Just Beginning

When I first picked up an FPV drone, I had no idea where it would take me. What started as a childhood fascination with RC vehicles has turned into a full-fledged passion and career path. From scenic flights over the coast to capturing high-speed action shots, FPV flying has given me a perspective on the world that I never knew I needed.

To anyone considering getting into FPV drones—do it. It’s a learning curve, no doubt, but the rewards are incredible. Whether it’s for fun, for art, or for business, drone piloting has the power to transform the way you see the world.

For now, I’ll keep flying, keep learning, and keep pushing myself to new heights. The sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.

If you want to see more of my work, check out my Instagram: @shotzbyshew. See you in the skies!

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