Flying my drone over Tennessee’s stunning lakes has completely changed how I experience the outdoors. From the vibrant blues and greens of Norris Lake to the peaceful, misty mornings at Reelfoot, every flight brings a fresh perspective. I’ve found that using a drone isn’t just about getting a higher view—it’s about telling a richer story. And when it comes to the Volunteer State, the scenery practically begs to be captured from the sky.
Whether you’re just getting into aerial photography or you’re already comfortable piloting your drone, knowing how to make the most of each flight is essential. I’ve learned that timing, technique, and a deep appreciation for the landscape go hand-in-hand. So I’ve put together these drone photography tips for capturing lakes in Tennessee to help others discover the same joy I’ve found in merging flight and photography.
Scout the Location in Advance
Before heading out with my drone, I always spend time researching the lake I plan to shoot. Each lake in Tennessee has its own visual character—some are nestled in steep hills, others wind through farmland or national forest. I use topographic maps, satellite views, and drone footage from other creators to identify key spots that are worth photographing.
For example, Center Hill Lake has deep, narrow coves and cliffside overlooks that look incredible from above. In contrast, Douglas Lake offers wider views and sprawling shoreline. Knowing what to expect helps me plan flight paths and pick the best time of day to capture shadows, reflections, and details.
Sunrise and Sunset Light Make the Shot
Lighting makes or breaks a drone photo. I’ve learned that the golden hours—about an hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset—offer the most dramatic and visually rich lighting for lake shots. Early in the morning, mist sometimes lingers on the water at places like Tims Ford or Reelfoot, giving the scene a mystical atmosphere. In the evening, reflections glow with fiery orange and purple tones that feel almost surreal.
The contrast between shadows and light at these times adds depth to the shot, especially when you’re flying high and capturing wide swaths of water, treetops, and ridges. I try to arrive at least 30 minutes early to set up and catch every phase of changing light.
Watch the Wind and Weather
Tennessee weather can shift quickly, and I’ve learned not to underestimate wind conditions near lakes. Open water and elevation changes can create unpredictable gusts. I always check forecasts for wind speed and direction before taking off. For safe flying and steady footage, I aim for days with winds under 10 mph.
I also keep an eye on clouds. While clear skies are beautiful, partial cloud cover often adds contrast and visual interest. One of my favorite drone photography tips for capturing lakes in Tennessee is to embrace moody skies—when done well, they create drama and highlight the lake’s natural features in compelling ways.
Use Multiple Angles
One of the biggest mistakes I made early on was settling for just a few overhead shots. While the classic top-down view has its place, some of my most compelling lake photos have come from creative angles. Tilting the camera slightly downward while flying parallel to the shoreline captures both the texture of the water and the depth of the landscape. This works especially well at places like Tellico Lake, where rolling hills frame the edges.
I also experiment with height. A low-angle shot from 30 feet up can highlight shoreline detail and boats docked nearby, while a high-altitude perspective showcases the full stretch of the lake and its surroundings.
Follow the Shoreline
Lakes aren’t just static bodies of water—they wind and curve through Tennessee’s terrain, creating natural patterns that pop from above. I’ve found that flying along the shoreline—especially at a slight diagonal—often produces dynamic compositions with more visual flow. These photos pull the eye into the scene and help tell the story of the landscape.
On lakes like Dale Hollow or Cherokee, this technique lets me show how inlets and coves break up the shoreline. I usually fly about 100–150 feet above the waterline to get the best balance between detail and scale.
Highlight Color Contrast and Reflections
One of my favorite parts of drone photography at Tennessee lakes is capturing the vivid contrast between the water and the surrounding landscape. In early fall, bright orange and red foliage reflects against blue water, especially at lakes like Watauga or Norris. During spring, the greens are intense, making everything feel fresh and alive.
Reflections also play a big role in creating standout photos. I often wait for the water to calm—usually early morning or just before dusk—to catch mirror-like surfaces. Flying close to still water allows me to shoot symmetrical images that feel surreal and artistic.
Incorporate Foreground Elements
To add depth to lake photos, I sometimes include objects in the foreground—trees, piers, kayaks, or small boats. These elements anchor the viewer’s eye and create a sense of scale. I often fly over spots where fishing docks jut into the lake or where colorful kayaks are lined up along a beach.
This trick is especially useful when photographing smaller lakes, like Radnor Lake near Nashville, where the scenery is beautiful but more intimate. Including foreground details makes the shot feel immersive.
Use Manual Camera Settings
Auto settings are tempting, but I’ve found that using manual controls gives me much better results. I typically adjust the ISO to the lowest setting possible (100 or 200) to reduce noise, and I set my shutter speed based on the available light. For photos, I stick to a slower shutter to capture rich tones, and for video, I aim for double the frame rate (e.g., 1/60 sec for 30fps video).
I also adjust the white balance depending on the time of day. Morning light tends to run cooler, while sunset casts a warmer hue. Tweaking these settings in the field gives me more control and less work in post-processing.
Stay Within Legal Boundaries
While Tennessee is drone-friendly in many ways, I always double-check the rules before flying at any lake. Some areas near military bases, airports, or wildlife refuges are restricted. I use apps like B4UFLY or AirMap to check for no-fly zones and altitude limits.
State parks often allow drone flights but may require prior approval. I’ve had success getting permission by calling ahead or checking in with rangers. Following regulations isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about respecting the people and wildlife that share the space.
Fly With a Story in Mind
It’s easy to get lost in taking beautiful shots for their own sake, but I’ve found my best drone photos happen when I’m telling a story. That could be a day of family fun on the lake, a transition from sunrise to full daylight, or the peaceful stillness of a foggy morning paddle. Thinking in terms of story helps me plan my shots with purpose.
Sometimes I pair drone footage with ground-level shots or add voice narration for video edits. It brings the visuals to life and gives the final product emotional weight. Whether you’re documenting a weekend getaway or creating content for a blog, story-driven photography always stands out.
Use Filters for Better Control
Neutral density (ND) filters have been a game-changer in my drone work. These filters reduce light entering the camera, letting me use slower shutter speeds even on bright days. That means smoother footage and richer tones. I keep a set of ND4, ND8, and ND16 filters in my drone bag and switch based on the sunlight.
Polarizing filters also help cut glare off the water and enhance color contrast. At lakes like Pickwick or Percy Priest, where the sun can be intense and the water reflective, these filters help me capture details that would otherwise be washed out.
Always Carry Extra Batteries and SD Cards
Lakes can be big, and flying back to your car or camp to swap out gear wastes time. I carry at least three batteries for my drone and two high-speed SD cards. That way, I can shoot continuously during golden hour or catch unexpected moments, like a bald eagle flying overhead or a family launching a canoe.
Having backups also means I can experiment more freely without worrying about storage or battery life. It’s a small step that opens up big creative opportunities.
Respect Other Visitors and Wildlife
Flying a drone is a privilege, and part of earning that privilege is showing respect to others around the lake. I avoid flying too close to people, especially in swimming areas or crowded docks. The same goes for wildlife—birds in particular can be startled or stressed by drones.
At quieter lakes like Panther Creek or Melton Hill, I’ve found that flying at a higher altitude and using zoom features lets me capture close-up shots without intruding on anyone’s space. It’s important to remember that we’re guests in these environments.
Edit Thoughtfully After the Flight
Good drone photography doesn’t end when you land. I use editing software like Lightroom and Photoshop to fine-tune exposure, color balance, and contrast. Sometimes I’ll straighten the horizon or crop slightly for better composition. For video, I trim clips to highlight the best moments and add subtle music to match the mood.
I try not to over-edit—Tennessee’s lakes are naturally beautiful, and I want to preserve that authenticity. Enhancing the shot should never mean exaggerating it.
Final Thoughts
Drone photography tips for capturing lakes in Tennessee are about more than just gear or settings—they’re about connecting with the landscape in a deeper way. Flying above the water lets me appreciate the scale, the patterns, and the hidden corners of lakes I’ve visited my entire life. Each flight reveals something new—a change in light, a new color in the trees, or a quiet moment no one else gets to see.
Tennessee’s lakes offer an ideal playground for drone photographers. From the wide expanses of Kentucky Lake to the hidden coves of Douglas, every shoreline holds a story waiting to be told. Whether you’re flying for fun, content creation, or pure artistic expression, these tips can help you make the most of each opportunity.
If you’re passionate about flight, photography, and nature, then take these drone photography tips for capturing lakes in Tennessee and go see the view from above. You won’t regret it.