Altura Zenith ATX8. Retrieved from Aerialtronics.com
Selecting the right UAS platform for a particular application is directly related to the sensor payload required.  Among the characteristics to consider are the overall flight time and environment where the UAS will operate.  The current stagnant FAA has not deterred the growth and development of ever more capable commercial UAS platforms.  The requirement for a platform that can provide aerial photography services to include full motion video and still pictures below 400 feet Above Ground Level (AGL) can be satisfied by the Altura Zenith ATX8 by Aerialtronics.  It is a very capable platform, available in two different main configurations.  For the purpose of this particular application, the model selected will have 8 motors that can provide a flight time of 35 minutes.  This will allow uninterrupted video and still picture capture. 
The Zenith is constructed from carbon composites, can withstand light rain, and has been tested in winds of 30 miles per hour. (Aerialtronics, 2015)  Ground control can be maintained via an RF Remote Control or a tablet; both options provide telemetry data from the UAS.  Aerialtronics offers the ability for dual operators; one can concentrate of flying the Zenith and the second operator can control the camera payload.  This allows for better footage and a safer overall operation.  “In the dual operation mode the system is configured with a second control unit to facilitate a focus on both the flight as well as the payload configuration.  This allows the users to perform safe and steady flights whilst delivering optimal data or imagery.” (Aerialtronics, 2015)  The camera payload is located in the underside of the Zenith for unobstructed video and image capture.  The landing gear is fixed to the frame at an angle that makes it not visible during video recording.
Sensor movement is controlled by a 3 axis stabilized gimbal that features a vibration isolator for smooth video capture; this is a must for high quality professional aerial videos.  The Zenith is the best UAS platform for video recording and still images; it features a long flight time, it permits dual operator control, and has an isolated and stabilized gimbal for the camera payload.
TBS Gemini FPV Racer.  Retrieved from team-blacksheep.com
Selecting an UAS for First Person Viewing (FPV) racing requires a different configuration from the one to capture high quality video.  Racing demands a high speed, maneuverable, and lightweight UAS.  It needs to have quick acceleration and control, it also needs to survive crashes and be easy to identify by other operators.  This is usually managed by the use of different color LED lights, each color identifying an operator.  Another characteristic that is important when selecting an FPV racing UAS is ease of repair in the field, as racers have to replace propellers constantly.  The UAS selected for this application is the TBS Gemini FPV Racer.  This UAS is specifically designed for FPV racing.  It features a sleek and aerodynamic frame that reduces drag and six forward tilting motors for quicker acceleration. “Its revolutionary design with forward tilting motors and aerodynamic canopy as well as fully integrated yet modular electronics turn it into a beast that will dominate any race event.” (TBS, 2014)  The Gemini features a forward facing camera with a 115° field of view; this is needed to ensure the operator has a good angle of view during the race.  The aerodynamic frame, forward tilted motors, and the angle of view provided by the camera make this UAS the best selection for FPV racing.

References

Aerialtronics. (2015). Altura Ground Control. Retrieved January 31, 2015, from Aerialtronics: http://aerialtronics.com/altura-zenith/control-functions/
Aerialtronics. (2015). Altura Zenith. Retrieved january 31, 2015, from Aerialtronics: http://aerialtronics.com/altura-zenith/altura-zenith/
TBS. (2014, December 2). TBS GEMINI Mini FPV Hex. Retrieved January 31, 2015, from TBS: http://www.team-blacksheep.com/tbs-gemini-manual.pdf