A NOOSA operator is hoping to use drones to unlock the town's tourism potential.

Michael Garnham, also a professional photographer, is preparing to launch his new website lookatnoosa.com.

Mr Garnham plans to give prospective visitors a fresh take by posting pictures taken from a specially kitted-out unmanned aerial vehicle.

He got the idea after he began shopping around for holiday ideas on the internet and realised that so much of the industry was picture-driven.

The project has been a long time coming and a costly exercise.

Mr Garnham had to obtain Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems licence and registration from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

The registration process, which included an intensive two-week course and testing, cost about $15,000 while the drone and its equipment cost around $30,000.

Mr Graham says the site will have high-res photos and video taken from the air.