I have been flying RC airplanes for about 11 years, and started helping out with a local UAV survey project last fall. The aircraft fly using computer/GPS guidance, and we can record both still and motion images. The main goal of this project is to find old wagon trails in the local area. Maybe this could be adapted to insulator hunting? Who knows.

The guidance system is about a $1000 investment. This is assuming you have a suitable airplane and power system....and good piloting abilities. Since they are loaded down with equipment, the flying characteristics of these airplanes are not for the inexperienced. Right now, the system cannot perform takeoffs or landings, so that is why a good pilot is required.