When Michael Scott recognised a growing demand for high-quality aerial imagery and accurate site data, he knew there was a business ready to be built from his photography hobby.
It was March 2026 when South Shields JobCentre Plus suggested he have a chat with TEDCO Business Support.
By May, he had launched MGS Drone Surveying Ltd.
Turning a Hobby into a Viable Business
Michael’s strong background in traditional photography showed his natural eye for effective composition and visual storytelling. He explains,
“What began as a hobby became a serious interest after I was introduced to my first DSLR camera by my father-in-law, a keen photographer himself. From that point on, I was fully invested in developing my skills, with my work going on to be featured in the local press.”
As he prepared to launch, Michael met with TEDCO business advisor Colin Lynch who delivers support through South Tyneside Council’s ‘Start Up South Tyneside Programme’. It is funded by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and The North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.
Colin listened to him carefully as he shared his plans for a new drone-based surveying business. He tells us,
“It didn’t take long for me to realise that Michael has a combination of technical knowledge, photographic skill and a willingness to learn, which are all qualities that would help him move quickly from idea to launch. We talked about what is involved in running a business, all the nitty gritty, then he got on and did it! He’s a smashing role model for others who could use their skills to work for themselves.”
The Financial Confidence to Start a New Business
Like many people considering self-employment, Michael’s biggest concern was generating a reliable income.
“Before starting the business, my biggest worry was whether I could find enough clients to earn a wage, but the thought of being my own boss outweighed the fears.”
Michael credits Colin’s encouragement with helping him move forward with confidence,
“The positivity from Colin to make a real go of it was a big help and he suggested the TEDCO workshops at One Trinity Green that would prove to be really useful too.”
North East England is Full of Opportunity
Born and bred in the North East, Michael is proud to have built his business in the region,
“It’s a good place to run this business as there is a multitude of different industries across the North East that could all benefit from using drones.”
He goes on to say,
“Construction companies, property developers, estate agents, surveyors, architects, facilities management teams and roofing contractors, they can all enhance their offering by using drone footage.”
Michael operates as a fully insured and CAA-licensed drone pilot. His services include aerial photography, roof inspections, progress monitoring and orthomosaic mapping for construction, property and commercial clients.
Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of Michael’s work is helping his clients showcase their own projects, properties and developments. Through high-quality aerial imagery that supports everything from marketing campaigns to site monitoring and inspections, he is helping businesses across the North East stand out and be seen.
To find out more about MGS Drone Surveying Ltd, visit www.mgsdronesurveyingltd.co.uk.
Michael’s journey shows how the right support and determination can turn an idea into a thriving business.
If you’re in the North East and thinking about starting your own venture, TEDCO is here to help. See the TEDCO Programmes page to find out more about the programmes available in your area.
Tell us a few details on this Initial Enquiry Form and we’ll be in touch to help you as much as we can.
Start Up South Tyneside is a business Start up programme delivered by the TEDCO Business Support on behalf of South Tyneside Council which aims to support local residents with their aspirations to start up a business. This project is funded by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and The North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.
