My First Time Flying a Drone – An Unforgettable Experience in Epping Forest

by Alan Hall 5 April 2023

I’ve always been a tech enthusiast, drawn to the latest gadgets and innovations. Naturally, drones had been on my radar for a while—especially the idea of capturing breathtaking aerial views. But let’s be honest, owning a high-quality drone isn’t exactly cheap. I had the desire to buy one, but I wasn’t sure if I’d be any good at operating it. Would it just sit on a shelf after the initial excitement wore off? Would I even find enough opportunities to use it? These questions kept me hesitating.

Then, while browsing online, I stumbled upon this DJI outdoor event. A chance to fly a drone for free, with professional guidance in a stunning natural location? I signed up without a second thought.

When I arrived at Epping Forest, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. But as soon as I launched the drone into the sky, all hesitation disappeared. Watching the treetops sway in the wind, tracing the winding paths from a bird’s-eye view—it was like unlocking a whole new way to experience the world. The DJI team made everything so intuitive, guiding me through every step until I was confidently capturing footage I never imagined possible. I always thought of nature as something you walk through, but today, I saw it in a way I never had before.

By the end of the event, I had my answer—I needed a drone of my own. The thrill of piloting it, the joy of seeing the world from above, the endless creative possibilities… it was everything I had hoped for and more. Now, I can’t wait to get my own and take it on new adventures across the UK. This experience didn’t just introduce me to drone flying—it convinced me that this was just the beginning.