We had the good fortune of connecting with Kanin Howell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kanin, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve always been a photographer and cinematography was my passion. I grew up in the film biz and made my living doing it for 34 years. Back in 2013 drones were finally able to carry the big cinema cameras like the RED and while working on Arrested Development the lightbulb went on. I decided to combine my two passions and the rest is history. Funny thing is, I took a different path than original planed and actually don’t fly drones for the film industry. Flying drones on a movie set seems romantic but it’s not all peaches and cream. Movie sets are quite stressful and have a lot of moving parts. Plus it was overcrowded; EVERYBODY wanted to fly drones in the movies. I had already been there done that so I found my niche someplace else. During the pandemic it turned out to be the best decision I could have made. While the film industry was shut down my business was, and still is steady.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My aerial photography firm is known for delivering high quality assets. We take pride in what we do and I think that shows. If I’m not proud of it, I won’t put the Drone 55 name on it. It’s all in the details and that requires a collaborate effort between the client and my team. Before starting a project, I make sure the clients scope of work is clearly defined and we‘re on the same page with deliverables. This ensures that we’re able to meet, or exceed their expectations. I don’t make promises I can’t keep. If the clients not happy, I’m not happy.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First off, I would take them to my favorite sushi spot, Sushi Gen in DTLA. Then I’d have to take them to the beach because it is Southern California! Maybe Santa Monica beach and cruise 3rd St Promenade afterwards. One night I’d take them to Silver Lake, my old stomping grounds, go eat Cafe Stella and finish the night at the infamous Spaceland to listen to some live music and shoot some pool.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shoutout to Shiva, my wife and biggest fan. Shiva is a true ride-or-die chick and always has by back; even when I decided to pursue a new buisness right before we had kids!

Website: www.drone55.com
Instagram: http://instagram.com/drone55inc
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drone-55-inc-
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drone55inc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drone55
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/drone55inc

Image Credits
Kanin Howell, Drone 55, Inc.

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