I'm planning to get into drone photography and potentially earn some money from it eventually. Should I study for and get my Part 107 certificate before even buying a drone, or is it better to practice flying first with a cheaper model? I've heard conflicting advice and want to do this right from the start.

Background: Complete beginner, no aviation experience. Looking at either a DJI Mini 3 or maybe starting with something cheaper like a Holy Stone model.

Get the drone first and practice! You don't need to own a drone to take or pass the Part 107 test. The certification evaluates your aeronautical knowledge, not your ownership or experience with a specific aircraft. I'd recommend getting comfortable with basic flying skills before diving into the regulatory stuff - it'll make more sense when you understand how drones actually behave.

Actually, I'd suggest getting your Part 107 first if you're serious about making money. The FAA requires you to have a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) if using a drone for work or business. This means that even if you are not getting paid, you need one. For example, if you are posting drone videos on YouTube, regardless of whether or not it is monetized, you actually need a license. Plus studying the regulations will teach you proper safety habits from day one.

Why not do both simultaneously? I studied for Part 107 while practicing with a cheap drone from Amazon. The theory reinforced what I was learning through actual flying, and vice versa. Just don't post anything online until you have your certificate - even non-monetized YouTube videos require Part 107!