5 Questions: Justin Riggs, Skyview Productions
Photo of Justin Riggs courtesy of Claire Riggs
BY CLYDE HUGHES | AC JosepH Media
FRANKLINVILLE – After high school, Justin Riggs tried to figure out what would be the best career for him like so many young people.
What he found that going into business for himself was actually the best fit as a drone operator. Riggs is a Federal Aviation Administration-certified drone pilot, taking photography and videography with his own company Skyview Productions.
He said the business gives him the freedom to use his mind and his hands, something he has always been good at, to make creative detailed aerial images for his clients.
Commercial drone video operating is still a new small business field, which started to become more popular in the early 2010s. The field has grown with the improvement in technology to create more customer-friendly drone models.
The FAA’s Part 107 rules in 2016 continued to help that growth as drone technology and cinematography began to take off for film and television production as well as advertisement and marketing.
Riggs described owning his own business as like “building a puzzle,” as he continued to find his own niche in this new and burgeoning field. Her is what he says about being a certified drone pilot and entrepreneur.
The Justin Riggs File
Name: Justin Riggs
Name of Business: Skyview Productions
Address: Franklinville
Years in business: 2 years
Specialize in: Drone photography, Drone Videography
Contact info: Justin.Skyviewproductions@gmail.com; 856-839-1042
5 Questions
1. FRNJ: What made you become a business owner?
Justin Riggs: I attempted the traditional route after high school. I found it challenging, especially with the changes brought on with the pandemic. I have ADHD and know that it’s best to do something with my hands. I’ve always enjoyed completing puzzles, gaming and using technology, so becoming a drone pilot allows me to use all of these strengths.
2. FRNJ: Why did you select your current field?
Justin Riggs: Being a drone pilot allows me to use my mind, my hands, and my creativity to bring stories to life. I explored several different fields and fell in love with the views from the sky. I pursued my certification by completing an online course. I was so excited about the topic and the career opportunity, I completed the three-month course to become a licensed FAA Drone Pilot in six weeks!
3. FRNJ: What do you enjoy the most about being a business owner?
Justin Riggs: I enjoy the freedom and the flexibility, which are positives, but the challenge of building a business is exciting. It’s been like building a puzzle, figuring out and putting all of the pieces together.
4. FRNJ: How important is it for you to have positive Black role models in business?
Justin Riggs: For me, I can learn from anyone, but I have the best role models in my parents, Steven and Claire Riggs. They have been business owners since 2008 and I’ve watched them grow and achieve success. As a new drone videographer and editor, I’ve been blessed to be mentored by some of the pros they partner with and to support some of the Riggs Creative Group projects. I’ve also had the privilege to join Victory Remodeling’s sales team and be trained and mentored by Devin (last name unavailable), the first black director in the regional office. It means a lot to see people from similar backgrounds breaking barriers for us next-geners.
5. FRNJ: Anything else would you like to add?
Justin Riggs: God has a plan and purpose for each of us. It’s sometimes hard not to compare myself with the success others have achieved academically, but college is not for everyone. Trust God and allow Him to guide you to find your unique fit in this vast world.
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