CRAVEN-based photographer Alex Lester is launching UAV Studio - a professional drone service providing aerial inspections, surveying and thermography.

Although best known for his work with Studio Lester - a wedding photography and videography business - the impact of Covid-19 has accelerated his desire to step into the world of aerial surveying.

Mr Lester said: “We’ve been using drones at weddings for years and have had full Operational Authority from the CAA since 2018. I’ve always felt like there was a gap in the market for a more specialised service we could be offering with the kit we’ve got. As a result of lockdown, I’ve had time to explore this in great detail, and I am really excited to be launching UAV Studio.”

During the latest lockdown he has wasted no time in learning a range of skills to benefit his new venture.

Working closely with Leeds-based drone specialist COPTRZ, Alex has already completed a Commercial UAV Surveying course and is close to securing Thermal Imaging Category 1 Certification, enabling him to take his aerial thermography capabilities to new heights.

“At first the lack of weddings caused not just me, but the entire industry a great deal of pain. But as time went on, I saw the extra time I had as a result of lockdown as an opportunity to onboard new skills, pivot and launch this exciting new venture.

“As a businessman I believe it’s really important to stay ahead of the curve, and if I’m to take one positive from the past twelve months, it’s that lockdown has given me the head space to build UAV Studio. I can’t wait to get to work.”

For further information go to https://uavstudio.co.uk/