Intro To Drones
Aerial filming using drones has been around for a number of years and recently there has been an explosion of drones around the world. They are an extremley versatile camera platform that can get shots not possible with other systems. Using Techno Cranes, Jibs and Cable Cams are expensive and time consuming to set up and move. We can set up, calibrate and fly within minutes allowing us to react quickly to unfolding live events. We have been flying drones profesionally for broadcast for 6yrs for a wide list of clients, and filming for broadcast for over 25yrs. We understand the time and budget constraints of a shoot and work with your production team to find the best aerial solution for your project. We also understand set etiquette from large features to small corporates and can integrate with any camera team.
Things to Consider
With the recent surge in use and populartiy it is a legal requirment to ensure the drone operator is CAA licensed for UK operation. On top of that there is also a requirment of a BNUC-S certification that is needed before CAA licensing. We are fully CAA licenesed and insured in the UK. We also operate overseas regularly and our kit travels well on airlines! We have been operating drones before the recent popularity trend. Ensure your operator is licensed and has experience as a license doesn't guarantee your perfect shot. That is down to the skill and experience of the pilots. We have operated in some very tricky locations all over the world, and feel our showreel speaks for itself.
Planning your Aerial Shoot
Drones are very versatile and can operate in most areas but there are some limitations. Weather is big factor as our drones are electric and do not fly in rain for obvious reasons! Wind speed is also a major consideration when planning a drone shoot. The max wind speed limits for each of our copter systems varies, for more detailed info please see our aerial kit list here. Flying in wind speed close to the operational limits will restrict some shot options and footage may be shakier than usual although it can mostly can be smoothed in post. Wind speeds over the limits we will not fly in due to safety of the craft and surrounding crew. Getting the shot is the goal but we wont risk injuring anybody to get it!
Planning your Location
Every location is different so if you have one in mind send us some pics or info. We have to assess every location to ensure it is safe to operate in. We check for hazards/restrictions (e.g. power lines, trees) and if we feel it is too unsafe we will not fly. The pilot's decision is final. If using the Hexakopter by law we have to be a minimum of 50m away from people or buildings not under our direct control. The Octocopter due to being heavier and larger has to be 150m away from people or buildings not under our control. Some locations may require special permissions to fly in. If you are unsure wether a location is viable for drones then please get in touch.
Bookings
When arranging a booking it is always best to have a "window" of a few days for a potential shoot. This is to choose an optimum day (if possible) weather wise to achieve the best results. We monitor the weather in the week leading up to the shoot and update you with information as we go. Sadly in the UK the weather can change at the drop of a hat. If we have been booked for a shoot that has to be cancelled due to weather we do not charge any cancelation fees. If we are overseas we recommend a few days as it is very disappointing for all to travel to an overseas location and not be able to fly due to weather. We understand that anything can change in TV/Film and work with you to advise and orgainse the aerial shoot.
