I was flying at about 300ft and at a distance of 0.5 meters from my location and the app is telling me there is a weak remote signal strength. How am I able to get to 1KM away if I cant be 300ft straight up?
Because you probably didn't pay attention to the aiming of your antenna(s). They have to be broadside to the drone. If it was straight up above you, the antenna would need to point directly away from you.
It's also explained in the manual.The manual and a bunch of tutorial videos are available in the Academy section of the app.
From the homepage, tap the upper right icon (graduation hat).