Who is Rain Nirgi?
Rain Nirgi is a veteran of the drone flight and video production industry who has dedicated the last ten years to working full-time in film, television and other video media. His career includes involvement in a diverse range of projects, from live broadcasts to the creation of music videos.
Starting times: experiments and crafts
Rain’s journey in the world of drones started before drone technology had reached its current scale. His interest in the field grew at a time when Mavicus and Phantoms were still in development. During this period, Rain spent many evenings assembling his first drones using a variety of custom parts and components. These early multi-rotors were anything but reliable and stable, but these experiments provided valuable lessons and helped hone his skills.
The first drone and lessons learned
Raini’s first drone was a hexacopter about a metre in diameter and weighing 4-5 kg, assembled from components ordered from China. It had an APM brain, an analogue video link and a GoPro camera hanging from a two-axis gimbal below the belly. The flight time with two large batteries was 7-10 minutes, but despite the short flight time and technical glitches. “It was a challenge on every flight – the GPS was not reliable and I often had to deal with technical glitches,” he added.
Memorable moments
Rain has experienced numerous memorable drone flights in very different and often extreme conditions. He has flown drones from large cruise ships, sailing boats and launches in rough seas, chased cars and even broadcast live footage from the back of a motorbike at a bike race. In addition, spectacular television broadcasts such as the Republic Day parades and Rally Estonia have provided plenty of memories and thrills.
Favourite places and challenges
Rain’s favourite places to fly drones are Estonia’s forests and swamps, which offer new views and challenges every time, whether it’s fresh white snow or low mist at sunset. He has also experienced a number of challenging situations, such as sudden battery drainage or loss of control, which have given him the opportunity to hone his skills even further.
Preferred drone and tips for beginners
Currently, Rain prefers to use the DJI Mavic 3 Cinet, which he says is extremely reliable and has a high quality image. “This drone is safe and comfortable to use, which is important in challenging natural conditions as well as in professional projects,” he added.
Rain also has some advice for beginner drone pilots: “It’s important to always be aware of your surroundings, not just the remote control screen. Modern drones may be equipped with obstacle sensors, but the technology is no substitute for the pilot’s alertness and judgement.”
Raini’s story is an inspiration to many, showing how passion and dedication can lead to exciting journeys both professionally and personally, opening doors to new views and experiences through drone flights.
(Photos from private collection)