Cathy Dobson
Most Sarnians aren’t yet aware of what a difference a drone can make to a marketing campaign.
But Anne Lannan and Mark Bandura, co-owners of Dragonfly Media, are confident that’s about to change.
Both are certified Unmanned Aerial Vehicle pilots, having graduated from the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre where they learned to fly drones.
Notably, Lannan was the first female trained at the school.
She said she easily mastered the remote controls, sending the 10-pound flying machine soaring overhead with a high-resolution camera.
Business partner Bandura calls the shots while the drone flies, requesting certain camera angles and footage for Dragonfly Media clients.
“We are a marketing company that uses very high-end technology for interior and exterior photos and videos,” explains Bandura, who worked 23 years as supervising producer of on-air creative projects at City TV in Toronto.
He brings technical knowledge and editing abilities to the new venture, while Lannan’s strengths are marketing and campaign development.
Both grew up in Sarnia and left to pursue careers, returning this year to form a business partnership and launch Dragonfly Media.
“I was itching to try something new,” said Bandura. “And I wanted to bring some of my technical knowledge and creativity to Sarnia.”
Lannan decided after 25 years with the Ontario Community Newspapers Association in Burlington, Ont. she wanted to retire and start a company in her hometown.
“I thought about drone promotions because we know they are already used by police and sometimes for property security, but they are just starting to be used for marketing,” she said.
“The industry is so new and there’s so much potential.”
With an investment of more than $40,000, Dragonfly Media has an array of high-rez cameras for conventional photos and videos on the ground, and an “Inspire 1” UAV for aerial shots and videos.
“Our biggest challenge is showing businesses what is available now that they never dreamed of before,” said Lannan.
Dragonfly Media has produced its first promotional videos for Sawmill Creek Golf Resort and Spa and RE/MAX Sarnia Realty.
“Our business is video and photography, but it’s the aerial imaging with the drone that sets us apart,” said Lannan.
Dragonfly Media anticipates a wide variety of clients including real estate agents showcasing properties, municipalities promoting tourism and advertising agencies that want aerial services.
“We are looking for freelance Sarnia talent for everything from cinematography, photography, lighting and voice-overs,” said Bandura. “If we can find the talent locally, we’ll hire here.”
For more about Dragonfly Media, visit www.dragonflymediaonline.com or call 519-466-3777.