I work closely with clients on their campaigns, so I get how important it is to keep relationships smooth. But there's one thing that's been giving me sleepless nights: client-provided drone footage. I'm a Part 107 pilot myself, so I know the rules inside out for anything I shoot. The real headache is when clients hand over footage for their spots with zero paper trail. Half the time, they don't know if it was shot by their kid, a hobbyist mate, or a legitimate commercial operator.
As we all know, airing non-compliant drone footage on broadcast carries massive liability and potential FAA fines. I'm currently drafting an affidavit that forces clients to vouch for the source and licensing status of the pilot before I'll touch it. But I'm worried that could feel confrontational and damage trust.
How does your team vet client-provided drone assets without killing the relationship? Do you have a specific waiver or verification process you ask them to sign before it goes to traffic? I'd love to hear what's worked for you.
