Chilly Sunday Sunrise at Royal Bay Beach

Another chilly West Coast Sunday morning, another reason to pull over at Royal Bay Beach.

You know that kind of sunrise that makes you forget you’re holding a coffee, because your fingers are too busy freezing off while you fumble for the drone controller? Yeah — one of those mornings.

The sky was glowing bright orange, the tankers were parked offshore like they’d reserved front-row seats, and Victoria was just starting to wake up. Couldn’t resist taking the Air 3S out for a few shots — mostly just to justify why I was up this early on a Sunday.

And sure enough, the universe has a sense of humor — same guy, same truck, same parking spot as the last time I came down here. At this point, we might as well start a Royal Bay Beach sunrise club. Great guy, knows all the local history, and somehow always beats me to the beach.

It’s always nice running into locals like that — just two people watching the light hit the water, pretending it’s not freezing, and pretending this isn’t slowly becoming a habit.

Beautiful morning, beautiful shots, great conversation. If every early-morning flight turned out like this, I’d stop pretending I hate getting up early.

Vancouver Island Drones — still grounded (but never for long).

Good Morning, My-Chosen Café — A Sunrise Worth Waking Up For

There’s something timeless about My-Chosen Café.
It’s the kind of place that hasn’t needed to reinvent itself in twenty years — because it never had to. Horses in the fields, coffee on the porch, and that classic Metchosin quiet that somehow feels like home even if you’re just passing through.

For me, it’s more than a local landmark. I’ve been coming here for over two decades — long before drones, cameras, or aerial photography ever became part of my life. So when the chance came to finally capture this spot from above, I knew it wasn’t just another shoot. It was personal.

The Flight

We lifted off just before sunrise, when the first light was brushing the tops of the trees but the sun hadn’t yet crested the hills. The café sat calm and still, lights warm against the morning blue.

As the drone rose above the treeline, the entire landscape opened up — the fields, the winding Metchosin roads, and the distant ocean beginning to catch the reflection of the rising sun. From that height, you can see why My-Chosen Café feels like the heart of this little pocket of Vancouver Island.

The video sequence starts at the front of the restaurant and slowly climbs through the trees — and then, like nature’s cue, the horizon ignites. The sky goes from deep blue to gold in seconds, the kind of light you can’t fake or predict.

Why We Fly

This shoot was a reminder of why we do what we do at Vancouver Island Drones. It’s not just about capturing pretty pictures — it’s about documenting the stories, the businesses, and the moments that make the Island feel alive.

Every café, every job site, every sunrise — they all tell part of the bigger story of this community. And sometimes, all it takes is a few minutes in the air to see it differently.

Want to Show Off Your Location?

If you run a restaurant, resort, or local business with a setting worth sharing, we’d love to help you showcase it from above. Whether it’s the early-morning calm or the full buzz of your busy hours, aerial footage can tell your story in a way that connects instantly.

📸 Vancouver Island Drones — Westshore-based | Advanced Certified | Authentic Island storytelling from the sky.
🌐 vancouverislanddrones.ca
📍 Serving Metchosin, Colwood, Langford, and Greater Victoria.

I Passed My Advanced Flight Review

Well, that’s it. The box is ticked, the paperwork is filed, and the hi-viz vest has sweat stains to prove it: I officially passed my Transport Canada Advanced Flight Review.

For anyone who hasn’t been down this rabbit hole, the Advanced is what separates the “flying a toy in the park” crew from the people who can actually work in controlled airspace without Transport Canada knocking on the door. It’s the big kid license.

What did it take? A pile of prep. Site survey scripts memorized like bad karaoke lyrics (CARs 901.27, anyone?). Emergency procedures on loop in my head — lost link, fly-away, the whole “call Nav Canada before your heart rate hits 200” routine. And yes, cones, launch pad, fire extinguisher, first aid kit — the whole portable circus stuffed in the back of the car.

Then there’s the actual review: fifteen minutes of proving you can keep your drone in sight, call your own takeoff/landing like you’re hosting a morning radio show, and convince a flight reviewer you’re not about to fly into a 737 on final. Sounds simple. It isn’t.

But here’s the thing: I passed. Which means Vancouver Island Drones can now operate at the level I’ve been aiming for — advanced airspace, higher-stakes projects, and the kind of credibility you can’t fake.

Am I suddenly Captain Professional? No. I’m still the same Westshore dad with a drone addiction, only now I’ve got Transport Canada saying, “Alright, you know your stuff, go play in the big leagues.”

What’s next? Logging some serious airtime on the DJI Air 3S — getting hours, honing skills, and putting that new license to work on construction, hospitality, and conservation flights right here on the Island.

For today though? I’m just celebrating. Advanced in the bag. Lord of the Wings (the Air 3S) still humming. Vancouver Island Drones moving up a rung.

We get up early in the Westshore… so you don’t have to.

— Ryan, Vancouver Island Drones

Westshore From Above: Lakes, Lagoons, and a Little Bit of Langford Pride

The Westshore has a reputation. Ask anyone from Victoria and they’ll say it’s all strip malls and traffic jams. They’re wrong. From the air, it’s one of the most beautiful corners of Vancouver Island. And yes, I’m biased — but that’s why I keep getting up at stupid o’clock with my drone batteries charged.

I’ve been flying over our lakes, stadiums, and even the famous Goldstream sign downtown Langford, because this is home. And if Vancouver Island Drones is going to be known for anything, it’s showing people the Westshore they drive past every day but don’t really see.

Thetis Lake

From ground level, Thetis is all about paddleboards and sunburns. From the sky, it’s a mosaic of emerald water wrapped in forest. The drone pulls back and suddenly you realize just how tucked away and perfect this place is.

Glen Lake

Smaller, but no less Westshore. You can see the docks, the houses that crowd the shoreline, and the kind of reflections you only get when the wind takes a coffee break.

Langford Lake

This one feels endless when you’re circling it from above. Families fishing, rowers carving paths across the surface, and the city building up around it. Langford Lake is the heartbeat in the middle of all this growth.

Esquimalt Lagoon

Let’s be honest — the Lagoon is our crown jewel. Sunrise here is like someone cranked the saturation dial in Photoshop, except it’s real. The driftwood, the spit, the ocean horizon… it’s why I call myself addicted. Every time I swear I’ll sleep in, the Lagoon calls me back.

Starlight Stadium

Sure, from the bleachers you see rugby scrums and soccer goals. From the air? It looks like a jewel box under the lights, dropped in the middle of Langford. Proof that even concrete and turf can be beautiful if you climb high enough.

The Goldstream Sign

It’s kitschy. It’s iconic. It’s ours. Flying over downtown Langford, that glowing sign is a reminder that the Westshore has an identity — and I’m leaning all the way into it.

This is the long game. Vancouver Island Drones isn’t about one-off gigs or quick shots. It’s about being the drone guy for the Westshore — the one who makes people stop scrolling, recognize their own backyard, and see it from a perspective they didn’t know they needed.

So yeah, I’ll keep chasing sunrises, flying over lakes, and dropping footage of landmarks that matter to the people who live here. Because this is home, and someone’s got to show it off properly.

Sign-off:
Vancouver Island Drones — Westshore based, sunrise addicted. We get up early… so you don’t have to.

Sunrise Confessions from the Lagoon

There’s a point in life where you stop being able to sleep in. You can blame kids, stress, or just getting old, but one way or another you find yourself wide awake at 5:00 a.m. staring at the ceiling, wondering if you should make coffee or just admit defeat.

For me, defeat looks like tossing the drone in the bag and heading for the Esquimalt Lagoon. Call it therapy, call it obsession — either way, when most people are fumbling for the snooze button, I’m chasing light and fighting driftwood for tripod space.

And here’s the thing: it’s worth it. Every single time.

The View Most People Sleep Through

Sunrise at the Lagoon isn’t subtle. Some mornings it’s pure fire — the whole sky bleeding orange and red over calm water, the kind of light that makes you forget your hands are freezing. Other mornings, it’s soft pastels and clouds painted like brushstrokes. Either way, it’s a reminder that the best show in town doesn’t come with a ticket price.

The drone doesn’t complain either. It just hums up into the sky, catching angles no human could manage unless they had a ladder the height of a condo tower. That’s the beauty of it: a fresh perspective on a scene that’s been there forever.

Why We Get Up Early

We joke that “We get up early in the Westshore… so you don’t have to.” But it’s true. Most people aren’t dragging themselves out of bed for this view. That’s fine — I’ll be the one running on caffeine, collecting the shots, and letting you enjoy them later at a civilized hour.

This is why Vancouver Island Drones exists. Not just to fly for the sake of flying, but to capture the places we love in ways that make people stop scrolling for a second and think, damn, I live here.

Sunrise, Old Man Style

So yeah — old man can’t sleep, dad mode engaged, drone in the air before most alarms have gone off. I’ll take it. Beats lying awake pretending I’ll fall back asleep.

Next time you see a Lagoon sunrise photo, know it’s powered by equal parts caffeine, insomnia, and stubborn love for the Westshore. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Vancouver Island Drones — Elevate Your Perspective.

Victoria BC from Above — 4 Minutes of Vancouver Island Coast & Lakes

Victoria’s not just a city you visit — it’s a view you chase. And sometimes, the only way to really see it is from the air.

We took the DJI Air 3S (with the Mini 3 as backup) out for a spin and stitched together four minutes of pure Vancouver Island: coastlines, lakes, sunsets, and skies that look like they were painted by a pyromaniac.

The Spots We Hit

This isn’t real estate fluff. It’s the places that make people pack up and move here (or never leave in the first place):

• Cordova Bay — when the sky catches fire at sunset, the ocean turns into molten glass.

• Esquimalt Lagoon — sand, driftwood, and coastal wildlife right on the edge of Colwood.

• Thetis Lake & Glen Lake — calm, mirror-like mornings that scream “Westshore life.”

• Muir Creek — rugged, untamed shoreline west of Sooke.

• Telegraph Cove — a tucked-away West Coast gem.

Why We Fly

This is still a passion project — a hobby that’s trying its best to become a business. But the beauty of Vancouver Island makes it hard not to keep flying. Whether it’s construction updates, hospitality promos, or content for local businesses, drones give you a perspective you just can’t get any other way.

Watch the Film

The full 4-minute cut is up on YouTube:
👉 Victoria BC Drone Tour | Vancouver Island Coast & Lakes in 4K

Pour a coffee, hit play, and let Vancouver Island remind you why the West Coast is the best coast.

Cordova Bay on Fire — Maiden Flight with the DJI Air 3S

The maiden voyage of our new DJI Air 3S didn’t disappoint. Cordova Bay lit up like someone spilled gasoline across the horizon and struck a match — the sky and ocean both glowing orange in one of those rare “drop everything and fly” moments.

This is exactly why I drag drones out of their cases at stupid o’clock in the morning. Half the time you end up with grey skies and gulls bombing the beach. But once in a while, you get 30 seconds of pure Vancouver Island flex — and suddenly the addiction feels justified.

The Drone Addiction Confessional

Let’s be honest: I didn’t need another drone. But the Air 3S is different. Dual cameras, longer flight times, better stability in wind — it’s built to actually deliver for the kind of stuff we’re chasing. Whether it’s construction progress, social media promos for local businesses, or just capturing the Island showing off, this drone earns its keep.

Do I have a problem? Absolutely. Is it paying for itself yet? Not even close. But that’s the whole point of Vancouver Island Drones — turning an expensive hobby into something that at least subsidizes the habit.

What’s Possible vs. What’s Worth It

Sure, we can do construction updates, hospitality reels, and coastal highlight pieces — and we’re already building the system to make that happen. But sometimes, it’s not about deliverables or KPIs. Sometimes it’s about strapping in, sending it, and remembering why we do this in the first place.

Cordova Bay gave us that on day one with the Air 3S. A reminder that no matter how many spreadsheets and permits and SEO tweaks pile up, at the end of the day it’s about perspective.

And from 120 metres above the shoreline, this perspective was on fire.

Transport Canada’s Drone Exam Portal is Down — and I’m Losing My Mind

It’s been over a week. I’ve called Transport Canada. They admitted it. The drone exam portal is down and nobody knows when it’s coming back.

Meanwhile, I’ve got a brand new DJI Air 3S — shiny, hungry, sitting on my desk like a dog that wants out. Registered, insured, begging to stretch its wings. And me? I can only legally fly it in a handful of spots because I can’t write the damn Advanced exam.

This is the definition of cruel and unusual punishment for a drone addict.

I’m up early, coffee in hand, sun coming up over the Westshore, and instead of flying my Air 3S I’m staring at a Transport Canada login page that might as well say: “Sorry bud, not today.”

New DJI Air 3S

How long does it take to reboot a website? We’re not talking about a Mars mission here — it’s a multiple-choice test with a credit card checkout. And yet here we are, grounded, because the one portal that actually lets Canadians level up is taking a nap.

So if you see me out flying the Mini 3 again, don’t judge. It’s not because I don’t want to take the next step. It’s because Ottawa has me on drone probation until further notice.

Some people get their morning fix with coffee. Me? I just need my Air 3S in the sky. And right now, Transport Canada is holding the stash.

VicPD Joins the Drone Age in Victoria

Victoria just got a little more futuristic. The Victoria Police Department (VicPD) has officially launched its own Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) program — in plain English, they’ve got a drone.

And honestly? We’re here for it.

Why a Police Drone?

Drones aren’t just for YouTubers chasing sunset shots or real estate agents showing off the latest listing. They’re a serious tool for:

• Event safety — large crowds, parades, festivals.

• Emergency response — fires, crashes, missing persons.

• Situational awareness — a bird’s-eye view officers can’t always get from the street.

New VicPD Drone

It’s fast, flexible, and a whole lot cheaper than running a helicopter over downtown.

The Local Angle

What makes this interesting for Victoria is scale. We’re not Toronto, Vancouver, or New York — we’re a compact city with busy summer events, a vibrant downtown, and a unique geography (Inner Harbour, narrow streets, nearby hills). A drone is actually a perfect fit here.

Picture VicPD flying their RPAS over:

• A packed Canada Day crowd on Belleville.

• A missing hiker search near Thetis or Mt. Doug.

• A traffic snarl on Douglas Street.

That’s not Big Brother — that’s a smarter, safer way to keep people moving and keep resources where they’re needed.

A Sign of the Times

The bigger story? Drones are going mainstream.

• Police services across Canada are adding them.

• Fire departments use them for hotspots.

• Conservation officers use them for wildlife monitoring.

And now VicPD has joined the list. If you still think drones are toys, you’re officially behind the times.

Our Take

At Vancouver Island Drones, we obviously believe in the power of a good aerial view. Whether it’s a construction progress shoot, a coastal sunrise, or yes — even a VicPD safety patrol — drones give perspective you can’t get anywhere else.

VicPD’s drone is proof that this technology isn’t niche anymore. It’s here, it’s practical, and it’s becoming part of how Victoria runs day-to-day.

Not quite Robocop, but definitely a step toward a safer, smarter city.

First Light Run: Coffee, a Brand-New DJI Air 3S, and a Sunrise That Paid Off

I dragged my butt out of the house before dawn, grabbed a coffee that was hotter than I am awake at that hour, tossed the DJI Air 3S in the car, and drove across town. The plan was simple: beat the wind, beat the crowds, and see what first light would hand us. It handed us glass water and clean color.

Why this spot, why this time

Cordova Bay, Saanich faces east across Haro Strait toward Washington, which means sunrise actually does something here. If the breeze hasn’t woken up yet, you get reflections and that natural teal/orange separation everyone tries to fake at noon. Fewer people, fewer boats, more keepers. That’s the whole play.

The kit (and the settings that mattered)

• Drone: DJI Air 3S (brand-new, first real outing).

• Reason it’s perfect for this: solid low-light, medium tele for stacking islands/cloud bands, rock-steady in coastal air.

• Settings (plain English):

  • Exposure: protect the sky first, lift shadows later.

  • Shutter fast enough to tame ripples; ISO kept low; white balance fixed (no auto sneaks).

  • ND on if the sky ramps up; off if the light is still soft.
    Nothing exotic. The trick is timing, not wizardry.

What we shot (three frames, three reasons)

1. Wide opener — horizon slightly off-center, long reflection path on flat water, shoreline doing the leading-line thing.

2. Medium stack — island silhouettes and banded cloud toward the San Juans; compressed, a little cinematic without getting silly.

3. After-glow — the color that hangs for a few minutes once the sun clears the low band and the beach is still quiet.

They live well as a three-image carousel or a single hero with two support frames. No gimmicks; just that 20–30 minute window when the coast cooperates.

Why we keep doing this

Sunrise shoots aren’t about suffering for art. They’re about cleaner frames with less work.

• Lower wind → steadier aircraft, sharper edges.

• Less human noise → no dodging dogs, joggers, or paddleboards.

• Real color → less grading, more trust.

If you’re a builder, this reads as professional progress, not chaos. If you’re hospitality, this sells the place instead of shouting about it.

A quick word on how we fly

We stay within Transport Canada rules, launch away from people, and keep distance from wildlife. Cordova Bay is gorgeous at first light—no reason to annoy anyone to prove it.

The punchline

The coffee did its job, the Air 3S did its job, and sunrise did the rest. Three frames, in and out, and no wrestling with harsh midday shadows later. That’s the whole point.

Request availability: vancouverislanddrones.ca

The Gateway Drone: How the Mini 3 Hooked Me (and Will Probably Hook You Too)

Hi, my name is Ryan, and I have a problem.
Zero days since my last relapse.

It all started with one little piece of plastic — the DJI Mini 3. The gateway drone. The first beer. The slippery slope into a garage full of cases, ND filters, and a growing collection of awkward conversations with my wife.

If you’re reading this because you’re thinking, “Maybe I’ll just get a cheap little drone to try it out” — stop. Save yourself. This is your intervention. Nobody stops at one.

The First Beer: My Mini 3 Origin Story

The Mini 3 is under 250 grams, which means in Canada it slides under the licensing radar. No tests, no advanced certificate, no bureaucracy. Just charge the batteries, toss it in the air, and boom — you’re suddenly a “drone pilot.”

That’s what got me. It looked harmless. Cute, even. A little flying GoPro that fits in a jacket pocket. DJI markets it like it’s the gateway to fun family memories: beaches, road trips, backyard BBQs. And yeah, it can do all that.

But here’s the thing: once you’ve had a taste of that perspective, the hook is set.

At first I told myself, “I’ll just film a couple sunsets, maybe grab a few overhead shots of the Westshore for fun.” Then suddenly I’m waking up at stupid o’clock to film Esquimalt Lagoon at sunrise, telling myself it’s “for practice.” That’s like saying you’re just “researching” bourbon by drinking half the bottle.

The Slippery Slope

The Mini 3 is good — but it’s also just good enough to make you crave more.

Wind picks up? Suddenly you’re watching it wobble like a drunk flamingo.
Low light? Grainy footage that screams “amateur.”
Clients? Forget it — nobody’s impressed when you pull out the “starter drone” for a paid shoot.

And that’s when you start scrolling forums, lurking on DJI rumor accounts, bingeing YouTube reviews at 2 a.m. The cycle is the same: “I don’t really need the upgrade… but man, that Air 3S dual camera setup looks sharp.”

This is how it happens. This is how you end up with a drone nickname spreadsheet and a budget spreadsheet that don’t line up.

DJI: The Friendly Neighborhood Dealer

I swear DJI has studied addiction psychology.

• First, they give you the Mini series. No license required. Easy. Cheap.

• Then they dangle the Air line in front of you: bigger sensors, longer flights, sexy omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

• And once you’re hooked? They casually drop the Mavic 4 Pro with a Hasselblad that makes your Mini footage look like it was shot on a potato.

The Mini 3 was my first taste. The Air 3S — my latest relapse. I even gave it a nickname: Lord of the Wings. It’s sitting on my desk right now, smelling like a big credit card bill.

Do I regret it? Absolutely not. Am I in too deep? Definitely.

The Mini 3’s Place in the Story

To be clear — the Mini 3 still has a role. It’s my “backup goalie.” When the Air 3S is on the ice, the Mini 3 is riding the pine, waiting for its moment.

And honestly, it’s still a killer choice for new pilots. Portable. Legal everywhere. Great for casual shots and tight spaces. It’s the gateway drone for a reason.

But like the first beer, it’s rarely the last one.

So You’re Thinking of Buying a Drone…

Here’s my honest, unapologetic take:

• If you just want to dabble: Sure, grab a Mini 3 or Mini 4 Pro. You’ll love it. Just don’t kid yourself — it won’t stop there.

• If you’re eyeing bigger gigs (construction, hospitality, conservation): Skip the gateway. Go Air 3S or higher. You’ll thank yourself later when your footage actually looks pro.

• If you’re telling yourself you’ll be “disciplined”: Good luck. I said the same thing. Now I run a business called Vancouver Island Drones and my YouTube channel is half therapy session, half relapse confessional.

Closing Confession

So yeah, the Mini 3 isn’t the best drone. But it’s the gateway. The first beer. And nobody stops at one.

If you’re reading this because you “just want to get into drones casually,” I’ll save you the suspense: see you in a year with a heavier backpack and a lighter wallet.

We are moving

Hey, Vancouver Island. We've got something to share.

We've been flying under the radar as Island Drones for a while now, building our reputation one sunrise, one perfect shot at a time. And every single frame—from the misty mountain tops to the rugged coastline—was shot right here. Our backyard. Your backyard.

So it’s time our name catches up to our reality. You’ll be seeing us as Vancouver Island Drones from now on.

Same obsession with good coastal light, same unapologetic approach to our craft—just a new name that finally tells the whole story.

Got a project? Let's talk.

• Elevate Your Business: Get cinematic reels that sell the Vancouver Island lifestyle, not just four walls.

• Track Your Progress: We offer professional progress packs for builders who want to show off every detail.

• Create Unforgettable Content: We find the shots you didn't even know you needed, from the ground up.

Vancouver Island Drones. The new name for the same crew, with the same mission.

Building Our Brand (Just Like You Build Everything Else Worth a Damn)

Look, when I started Island Drones a little while back, I had grand visions of flying over pristine beaches and getting paid a king's ransom for it. Turns out, everyone else in Victoria had the same damn idea, and the real estate media scene is a race to the bottom faster than a drone with a dead battery. Lesson learned, and probably the first of many.

So, like any good builder who hits a rock, you pivot. You adapt. You figure out what actually works and, more importantly, what sticks. For us, that's been about doing right by people. It’s not rocket surgery, right? Show up, do solid work, don't cut corners, and treat folks like you want to be treated. Turns out, that's how you build repeat business, and that's how you build real relationships.

And speaking of building, you might have noticed a little groundwork happening with our name. We started as Island Drones, and that's been home. But just like a solid foundation needs the right framing, we're making a shift. We're officially transitioning to Vancouver Island Drones. Why? Because it's who we are. It's where we work. And honestly, it just sounds better. We're still the same crew, flying the same top-shelf gear, with the same obsession for getting the perfect shot. Just putting the name where it belongs.

We're in this for the long haul. We're not chasing one-off gigs where everyone's trying to lowball the next guy. We're looking for partners – folks who value quality, appreciate a bit of honesty, and maybe even a laugh or two. Whether you’re pouring concrete, topping off a roof, or just need to show off a project that deserves more than a blurry phone pic, we want to be the team you call first.

We're building our business the same way you build yours: brick by brick (or drone shot by drone shot), with a focus on trust, good work, and making sure everyone walks away happy. Because that’s how you build something that actually lasts.

Flying the Flag: Vancouver Island Drones

We’ve been building our name here in the Westshore — capturing construction progress, showcasing local businesses, and dropping reels from the beaches and trails we love. That’s our home base, and it always will be.

But here’s the thing: every single frame we shoot — whether it’s a mansion under construction in Langford or a sunrise over the Lagoon — is part of a bigger story. It’s Vancouver Island.

That’s why from here on out, you’ll start seeing us use the name Vancouver Island Drones in our content.

This isn’t a rebrand. We’re not swapping logos to look fancy. It’s just making it clear that if you see footage from us on any platform, you’re looking at Vancouver Island — not some other coastline halfway around the world.

What that means

• Contractors: Our $299 Progress Packs are still built for Westshore/Greater Victoria jobs.

• Hospitality: Resorts and pubs get the same aerials that sell the lifestyle, not just the walls.

• Coastal reels: The Island’s sunrises, beaches, and forests — shared proudly under Vancouver Island Drones.

• Conservation: The dream track we’ll keep chasing as we grow.

At the end of the day, whether you call us Island Drones or follow along as Vancouver Island Drones, it’s all the same mission: capture the Island we live on, love, and want the world to see from above.

👉 Watch for new reels and stories tagged under Vancouver Island Drones — and find us at vancouverislanddrones.ca (site migration coming soon).

Showcasing Craft at Lighthouse Point – Victoria Interlock from Above

When you’ve got a location like Lighthouse Point in Shirley, BC, you don’t really need much help making it look amazing. It’s perched on the rugged coastline, the kind of place you pull over just to catch your breath (yes, I did exactly that on the way home).

But when you combine that kind of backdrop with the kind of stonework Victoria Interlock is laying down? That’s when a drone becomes more than a toy — it’s a spotlight.

The Project: Precision on the Coast

Victoria Interlock is run by Jasper, a guy who clearly cares about his craft and how it’s presented. After seeing his work in person, it’s easy to understand why his projects stand out — the stonework at Lighthouse Point is clean, precise, and designed to last longer than my editing patience.

From the ground, you can see the detail. From the air, you see the scale — how the work flows with the home, the land, and the ocean view that most of us can only dream about.

Why Aerial Makes the Difference

Sure, any jackass with 500 bucks can buy a drone and call themselves a “media company.” But polished aerials? That’s where experience, practice, and the occasional crash lesson come in. (Yes, I managed to crash in front of Jasper. No, it didn’t end up in the ocean. Small wins.)

For builders and contractors, drone footage isn’t fluff. It’s:

• Progress tracking (for clients, or just proving to your crew that yes, things are moving).

• Marketing ammo (because “Look at my project” hits harder with cinematic aerials than a quick iPhone snap).

• Social proof (Jasper’s already using this footage in ads that fuel his pipeline).

The Location: Lighthouse Point

If you’ve never been, Lighthouse Point in Shirley is the kind of place that makes you want to quit your job and build a cabin on the rocks. The ocean views are ridiculous, the air feels sharper, and when the light hits right, it’s basically a tourism ad waiting to happen.

Now put a polished home in the middle of it, with Jasper’s stonework tying it all together, and you’ve got a property that belongs in a magazine spread. My job was just not to screw up the view.

Wrapping Up

Big thanks to Jasper and Victoria Interlock for letting Island Drones capture this project. Their craftsmanship speaks for itself, but I’m glad we could show it off from above — where the scale and beauty really come alive.

If you’re a contractor or builder in the Westshore / Greater Victoria area and want your work captured the same way, let’s talk. We’ll bring the drone, keep ourselves out of the shot (most of the time), and make sure your work looks as good on camera as it does in real life.

📍 Request availability here

Sunrise in the Westshore: One Lagoon, Three Lakes, Zero Sleep

At Island Drones, we get up early in the Westshore… so you don’t have to.

This Saturday, I set myself a little mission: hit all the best sunrise spots in the Westshore before most people even finished their first coffee. Lagoon, Thetis Lake, Langford Lake, Glen Lake — four flights, one morning. Here’s how it went.

Stop 1: Esquimalt Lagoon — The Ocean Wake-Up Call

The Lagoon is where the Westshore meets the Pacific. Driftwood, salty air, gulls already arguing over breakfast — it’s the kind of scene that slaps you awake before the coffee does.

When the sun cracked the horizon, the water turned into a giant orange mirror. I flew low over the shoreline, catching that reflection across the bay. One of those “yep, this is why we drag ourselves out of bed at stupid o’clock” moments.

Sunrise at the Esquimalt Lagoon

Stop 2: Thetis Lake — Morning Mist & Quiet Trails

Drive a few minutes inland and you’d swear you’re in another world. Thetis at sunrise is pure calm. Mist lifting off the water, forest standing still like it’s holding its breath, and the first trail-runners sneaking by with headlamps.

From above, it’s a mix of moody wilderness and everyday community life. A reminder that nature and neighbourhoods overlap here in a way that feels uniquely Westshore.

Thetis Lake

Stop 3: Langford Lake — Gold Light & Busy Shores

By the time I set up at Langford Lake, the sun was climbing and the colours shifted to bright gold. Here it’s less misty, more lively — docks, paddleboarders, fishermen already out chasing bites.

Flying over Langford shows a different side of Westshore mornings: people starting their day on the water, homes tucked along the shoreline, sunlight spilling across it all.

Langford Lake

Stop 4: Glen Lake — Neighbourhood on the Water

Glen Lake is the most “local” of the four. Kids’ playground, boardwalk, morning walkers clutching takeout coffee cups. It’s not remote wilderness — it’s the neighbourhood lake everyone has a memory of.

From the air, Glen looks like a perfect postcard of daily Westshore life: water, community, and the mountains peeking out in the background.

Glen Lake

Mission Complete

Four flights, one morning. Salt air at the Lagoon, mist at Thetis, golden light at Langford, community buzz at Glen.

This is the Westshore before the rest of the world wakes up. And this is why we fly.

At Island Drones, we’ll get up early, freeze our fingers, dodge seagulls, and burn through batteries… so you don’t have to.

Hospitality Drone Services in Vancouver Island: Showcase Your Destination from Above

Guests don’t just book rooms anymore — they book experiences. And nothing sells an experience like a cinematic aerial view that makes people say, “I want to be there.”

On Vancouver Island, where every shoreline and forest backdrop looks like a travel magazine cover, the right drone footage can make your resort, hotel, or B&B irresistible before guests even pack a bag.

At Island Drones, we create visuals that turn browsers into bookings.

Why Hospitality Brands Use Drones

• Highlight Amenities
  Pools, spas, patios, and oceanfront decks look good on the ground — but from above, they look unforgettable.

• Capture the Surroundings
  Show off the beaches, forests, and trails around your property so guests can picture the whole experience, not just the bedspread.

• Promote Events & Experiences
  Weddings, retreats, festivals — drone footage captures them from angles guests (and competitors) can’t.

• Boost Social Media Engagement
  Short, jaw-dropping clips built for Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook. Stop the scroll, spark the booking.

Services for Resorts, Hotels & B&Bs

• Aerial Photography → 10–15 edited high-resolution images that showcase your property.

• Cinematic Video → 30–60 second brand-ready clips tailored for marketing.

• Event Coverage → Weddings, retreats, and special events filmed with a cinematic flair.

Why Vancouver Island Hospitality Chooses Island Drones

• Local Knowledge → We know the Island’s tourism seasons, golden-hour sweet spots, and which beaches look best from 50 meters up.

• Licensed & Insured → Fully compliant with Transport Canada regulations — no sketchy “cowboy pilots.”

• Marketing Focused → Content crafted to drive clicks, bookings, and brand awareness, not just pretty pictures.

The Island Drones Difference

Your guests are already dreaming of their trip. Our job is to make them hit “Book Now.” With cinematic visuals that highlight your property and its surroundings, we help you stand out in a crowded market.

👉 Ready to showcase your destination from above? Request a Hospitality Shoot today.

Punchline payoff: Because your ocean view is worth more than a selfie from the parking lot.

Drone vs. Traditional Photography for Construction and Real Estate

When it comes to selling a property or documenting a construction project, photos aren’t optional — they’re everything. But in 2025, “photos” can mean two very different things: the classic ground-level shots we’ve used forever, and the cinematic aerials you get from drones.

Both have their place. But if you’re trying to stand out in a crowded market, here’s how they stack up:

1. Coverage & Perspective

• Traditional: Ground-level angles. Nice for interiors, details, and making a kitchen backsplash look dramatic.

• Drone: Pulls the whole property and surroundings into one shot. Layout, landscaping, even the nosy neighbor’s trampoline.

👉 Verdict: Drones win for big-picture perspective. Traditional still wins for that fancy bathroom tile close-up.

2. Safety & Accessibility

• Traditional: Want roof shots? That’s scaffolding, ladders, or a very brave photographer.

• Drone: The drone does the climbing so you don’t have to. Safer, faster, and nobody has to dangle off a lift for “the shot.”

👉 Verdict: Drones win unless you enjoy paperwork for workplace accidents.

3. Cost Efficiency

• Traditional: Multiple site visits, lifts, scaffolding, maybe even helicopters if you’re really old-school.

• Drone: Quick launch, minimal setup, and usually cheaper than renting equipment that makes you look like Cirque du Soleil.

👉 Verdict: Drones almost always win — unless you’re taking close-up staging photos inside.

4. Marketing Impact

• Traditional: Still vital for interiors and polished detail shots.

• Drone: Adds cinematic flair, context, and that scroll-stopping factor buyers (and investors) can’t ignore.

👉 Verdict: The best marketing mixes both — interiors + aerials tell the full story.

The Island Drones Verdict

Traditional photography is still king indoors. But when it comes to real estate listings, construction progress, or anything that needs context, drones don’t just add value — they change the game.

The smartest builders and realtors aren’t choosing one or the other. They’re combining both for a package that sells the property and the lifestyle.

👉 Want to see the difference for yourself? Request a Free Consultation and let’s show you how drone imagery can elevate your next project.

Punchline payoff: Because a ground shot says “nice house,” but a drone shot says “this is the dream.”

DJI Mavic 4 Pro — The Aerial Overachiever

If the DJI Mini 3 is your first beer, and the Air 3S is a respectable craft IPA, then the DJI Mavic 4 Pro is a perfectly aged single malt — smooth, powerful, and expensive enough that you’ll hide the receipt in the glove box for a year.

This isn’t just a drone. This is DJI flexing, hard. A 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad camera, 5.7K video, 45+ minutes of flight time, and obstacle avoidance so advanced it might dodge your bad decisions.

It’s the drone that makes sunsets look cinematic, real estate listings look like Netflix trailers, and your neighbor with a Mini SE cry into their Costco hotdog.

The Camera: Hasselblad Flex Mode

The heart of this beast is the 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad camera. Translation: your footage now looks like it belongs in National Geographic instead of your uncle’s Facebook feed.

• Dynamic range: Pulls detail from bright skies and dark forests like some kind of wizard.

• Low light: Finally, night shots that don’t look like you filmed them with a potato.

• Colors: Hasselblad color science is famous — and no, that’s not marketing hype. It really does make the ocean look bluer and the sunsets richer.

On Vancouver Island, where you can go from blinding ocean glare to shadowy rainforest in five steps, that extra quality isn’t just nice — it’s survival.

👉 Pro Tip: Pack ND filters. Without them, the glare off Tofino surf will nuke your footage faster than a gull stealing fries.

Punchline payoff: Yes, it’s Hasselblad. No, that doesn’t mean you’re suddenly Scorsese.

Flight Time: Finally, Less Battery PTSD

DJI claims 45+ minutes of flight time. Which, if you’re coming from a Mini, feels like discovering cheat codes.

That’s long enough to:

• Film an entire oceanfront mansion,

• Panic when a bald eagle decides you’re the intruder,

• Argue with yourself about whether to “push it one more minute,”

• Still make it home with battery left.

For construction projects, this is massive. Less time swapping batteries, more time actually filming. For hospitality shoots? You can cover an entire resort in one smooth take instead of three stitched-together flights.

Punchline payoff: It’s the first drone I’ve flown where the low-battery warning doesn’t trigger immediate chest pain.

Obstacle Avoidance: Your Built-In Drone Insurance

The Mavic 4 Pro has all-direction obstacle sensing, which means it basically refuses to die unless you really try.

It dodges trees, buildings, and the occasional power line like it owes you money. On the Island, I’ve flown it through marinas full of ropes, poles, and seagulls with zero incidents — which is more than I can say for myself after two coffees.

For construction sites packed with cranes, scaffolding, and workers who “just want to see the drone up close,” this is more than nice. It’s peace of mind.

Punchline payoff: It’s like flying with a backseat driver… but one that actually keeps you alive.

Portability vs. Power: Not a Pocket Drone

Look, this thing isn’t small. If you’re hoping to slide it into your jeans pocket, either you’re wearing cargo pants from 2003 or you need to rethink your wardrobe.

But here’s the tradeoff: that weight means stability in wind.

• Mini 3: Flaps like a plastic bag in a storm.

• Air 3S: Decent, until the gusts get sassy.

• Mavic 4 Pro: Cuts through coastal winds like a drunk uncle through wedding cake.

If you’re filming along Ucluelet’s cliffs or a construction site where dust devils roll through, you’ll thank every extra gram of this drone.

Punchline payoff: It’s not discreet… but neither is showing up to a job with shaky footage.

Should You Buy It?

Let’s be brutally honest:

• Beginners → Don’t do it. Crash a Mini first, get the tears out of your system.

• Upgraders (Air 3S, Mini 4 Pro) → Welcome to the endgame. This is the truck upgrade. You’ll never shut up about it.

• Pros (real estate, construction, resorts) → If you show up without this drone, someone else will. Clients can smell “entry-level” from a mile away.

At Island Drones, we run a fleet — but when wow-factor is on the line, this is the rig we pull. It’s the one that makes clients say, “Wait, you shot that?”

Real Island Test: The Cliffside Shoot

We were filming a cliffside property near Sooke. Conditions: brutal. Windy, reflective water, trees everywhere.

• Mini 3: got bullied by the wind.

• Air 3S: respectable, but not happy.

• Mavic 4 Pro: rock-solid, smooth, and made me look like a genius.

The client was floored. That single shoot justified the price of the drone.

Punchline payoff: Sometimes, pro gear isn’t about looking fancy — it’s about getting paid.

The Island Drones Verdict

The DJI Mavic 4 Pro is not cheap. But neither is divorce — so maybe don’t tell your spouse what you spent.

It’s not a toy. It’s not a hobbyist’s upgrade. It’s the professional’s rig — and on Vancouver Island, where the conditions are unpredictable and the views are priceless, it’s the tool that elevates your footage from “nice” to jaw-dropping.

👉 See our full gear list — including the Mavic 4 Pro, filters, and the extras that actually matter.

DJI Mini 4 Pro Review 2025: The Pocket-Sized Powerhouse (Until the Mini 5 Shows Up)

Let’s start with the obvious: the DJI Mini 4 Pro is the kid brother who shows up at the family BBQ with abs. It’s tiny, lightweight, and makes you wonder: “How does this little thing film better than my full-sized camera?”

At under 249g, it ducks most drone regulations like a pro tax lawyer, shoots 4K HDR video, and has enough obstacle avoidance to keep you from looking like a complete idiot in front of your neighbors.

But here’s the twist — it’s 2025. Which means the DJI Mini 5 Pro is rumored to drop this September, and DJI has a habit of making their last model feel like yesterday’s iPhone. So should you buy the Mini 4 Pro now… or wait? Let’s break it down.

Size Matters: The One Time Being Small Is an Advantage

The best thing about the Mini 4 Pro? It’s basically the drone you can sneak anywhere. Toss it in a backpack, glove box, or the same pocket you forgot snacks in.

On Vancouver Island, that portability is gold. Hiking to a hidden beach? Throw it in. Camping trip? Toss it in. Quick stop to film your kid trying to catch crabs on the dock? Toss it in.

The downside? It handles wind about as well as a Walmart shopping bag. Along the coast in Tofino, you’ll quickly learn why DJI sells heavier drones.

Punchline payoff: It’s small, but so is espresso — and both will still make your hands shake if you overdo it.

Camera: Impressive, But Don’t Expect IMAX

The Mini 4 Pro’s 1/1.3-inch sensor is actually amazing for its size.

• 4K HDR video → sharp and vibrant, unless you’re pointing it at your neighbor’s beige siding.

• Slow motion → yes, you can now film your kid’s splash fights like it’s a Michael Bay movie.

• Color science → decent, but not in the same league as DJI’s Hasselblad-equipped big boys.

On the Island, it’s perfect for quick real estate exteriors, lifestyle footage, and general “wow look at that view” moments. But if you’re filming high-end resorts? Your clients will notice the difference compared to the Air 3S or Mavic 4 Pro.

Punchline payoff: *It’s a great little camera… just don’t expect it to make your fishing trip look like Planet Earth 3.

Flight Time: Good, Not Great

DJI claims 34 minutes of flight time, which in reality is more like 28 if you’re actually filming instead of hovering around pretending to be a hawk.

Still, for a drone that weighs less than your average breakfast burrito, that’s impressive. Just pack extra batteries, because nothing kills the vibe faster than “low battery, returning to home” mid-shot.

Punchline payoff: It lasts long enough to film your Instagram reel, but not long enough to make friends while you do it.

Obstacle Avoidance: Training Wheels for Grown-Ups

This is where the Mini 4 Pro steps up: omnidirectional obstacle sensing. In English? It tries to stop you from yeeting it into a tree.

For beginners, this is huge. For pros, it’s still nice when you’re flying low over docks, trails, or in the forest chasing that perfect cinematic shot.

Punchline payoff: Think of it as having a drone that politely says, “Are you sure about that?” before letting you ruin your day.

Should You Buy It? Or Wait for the Mini 5 Pro?

Here’s the million-dollar (or $999 USD) question: do you buy now, or hold off for the Mini 5 Pro rumored for September 2025?

• Buy now if:

  • You’re brand new to drones and want something small, legal-friendly, and idiot-proof.

  • You don’t care about resale value when DJI inevitably drops the Mini 5 and makes you feel old.

  • You just need a solid “always with me” drone for travel, hiking, or casual real estate.

• Wait for the Mini 5 if:

  • You want the latest and greatest. DJI has been leaking specs like a drunk intern — think better low-light, more range, and possibly a new camera sensor.

  • You’re not in a rush. September is basically tomorrow in drone years.

The Island Drones Verdict

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is like that friend who’s small, scrappy, and always up for an adventure. It won’t win an arm-wrestling contest with the Mavic 4 Pro, but it will go places the big boys can’t — and you’ll look less suspicious carrying it around.

It’s perfect as a travel buddy, a starter drone, or a lightweight option for quick Island shoots. Just remember: the Mini 5 Pro rumors are real, and if DJI sticks to schedule, your shiny new Mini 4 Pro could feel like last year’s iPhone in about six weeks.

👉 Check out our gear page to see where the Mini 4 Pro fits in our fleet. https://www.islanddrones.net/drone-gear
👉 Subscribe on YouTube to watch us test these drones in the wild (and occasionally almost crash them).

Punchline payoff: Buy it if you want fun. Wait if you want bragging rights.