Drones for video production

Did someone say Drone?

Drone footage is a great way to give your video a cinematic look. See how you can incorporate drone footage in your video.

Types of drones

Just like there are many different types of cameras to choose from, there are lots of different drones. There are Single-Rotor Drones, Multi-Rotor, Fixed-Wing, Fixed-Wing Hybrid Drones, the list goes on. Take some time to do some research. Look at the different features and functions of each one. Use this information to figure out which one will give you the best result. Keep in mind the kinds of shots you want to film and where you will be filming.

Check out this article for information on the best drones for video production.

Flying drone

How to use footage 

The great thing about drones is that they’re versatile. Filmmakers have so many options. It’s much easier for video creators to shoot spectacular aerial footage which before drones, wouldn’t be possible. This type of footage can be used in many different ways. The most common is for exterior establishing shots. These shots are often very wide shots of a place or location. It is a way of showing the surrounding area and giving the viewer context so they know where they are within the video.

Flying drone

Rules and Regulations 

Unlike most other video equipment, there are a lot of rules around drones. Depending on the make and model, you may need to register it. Be sure to check the Federal Aviation Administration guidelines to see if you need to register your drone. Another important thing to remember is to get permission before shooting. If you are filming on private property you will need to get permission from the owner. For other areas including public spaces, check to see if the air space allows flying. There are numerous apps available which you can use to check the area you want to film.

Drone

Consider the weather 

In the days leading up to your shoot it is important to keep an eye on the weather. Most drones will have an inbuilt camera stabilizer but if the wind is too strong the footage will look shaky. Visibility can also be a problem in heavy clouds or overcast weather. If the weather is not looking great for your shoot, it’s better to postpone. Don’t risk your equipment or crew’s safety by flying in bad weather.

Flying drone

Next Steps

Using a drone in your next shoot will take your video to new heights. Keep reading for information about Remote Videos. To return to the Video Production Process page, click here.