EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — A new hobby is taking flight in West El Paso as a group of local photographers launches a brand-new drone club, aiming to take their art to new heights.
The group hosted an inaugural fly-in event at Westside Community Park, utilizing the clear skies and open spaces to showcase how drone technology is helping them expand their craft.
Photographers and pilots of all skill levels gathered for the launch. Some attended just to watch and learn, while others brought their own gear to share tips and help build a community focused on safe, responsible flying.
Tim Holt, a veteran professional photographer and the president of the newly formed “Drone Enthusiasts of El Paso (DEEP),” said he bought his first drone just a few months ago. He said the experience motivated him to start the group to show his peers how the technology can give their work a brand-new edge.
“So what’s neat about drones is that they actually change your perspective as a photographer,” Holt said. “Most photographers are, of course, on the ground, and so they have that ground-level view of things. The drone puts you above that and makes you look down. So it’s kind of like you’re in your own little airplane. You can go up to 400 feet to look down, and things look completely different.”
Tim Holt
Tim Holt
Tim Holt
Tim Holt
As DEEP welcomed its new members, organizers made safety a top priority. During the event, they reviewed Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules for both recreational and professional drone flights.
These critical guidelines include registering drones, earning an FAA “TRUST” certificate, and strictly avoiding flying over 400 feet and above large crowds. Organizers also highlighted restricted airspace to avoid, such as areas around airports and military installations.
With safety protocols in place and a growing interest among local creators, DEEP is looking forward to more high-flying action in the Borderland.
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