Kip’s Comments - October 12, 2026
Canoeing the Wapsipinicon River - Image 1162839
Nearly Catastrophic Imaging
What began as a creative, supposedly harmless photographic effort nearly turned into a disappointing and very expensive failed aerial imaging effort. My intentions were to hover my drone over the calm, early morning waters of the Wapsipinicon River as I paddled my canoe through the composition. All went well until, for whatever reason, my drone controller voiced “aircraft landing.” Since my drone was over water, landing was not an option. Five or six times I had to override the automatic circuits on the drone to prevent a wet crash landing - all from the seat of my canoe. What is a fellow supposed to do?
Canoeing the Wapsipinicon River - Image 1162787
Had I not had issues I would have hand caught the drone in my canoe, but that was not an option after appearing to lose elevation control. Finally, when I figured out I could move the drone forward/back and left/right I steered the drone toward the shore where I quickly made it to Stu’s dock (Thanks Stu!) and solid ground where the drone was landed normally. Later, at home, the drone flew fine. My best guess was the glass-like surface of the water confused the sensor circuits and the fail-safe electronics were attempting to take over. That could have been a very costly outing! (I did manage some decent aerial photos before trouble occurred.)
Canoeing the Wapsipinicon River - Image 1162781
After the close call over the water I put my drone away and concentrated on outdoor imaging with camera equipment I held directly in my hands. Pretty scenery, a great blue heron, and bald eagles provided interesting subjects to watch.
Canoeing the Wapsipinicon River in Autumn - Image 1162911
Bald Eagle Along Wapsipinicon River - Image 1162580
Bald Eagle Along Wapsipinicon River - Image 1162811
Great Blue Heron - Image 1162982
Autumn Leaves - Image 1162550
Back at home (and away from water) I made a test flight to check for any control issues. The drone was as responsive as previous flights - except for this morning’s over shiny water flight - allowing for crop field photos.
Soybean Field Geometry - Image 1163179
Autumn Corn Field - Image 1163170
