HEAVY LIFTER DRONES
We have flown over 10,000+ missions since our drone start in 2012. With the advancing of drone tech, the cinematic shots our team creates are some of the best in the business.
We're currently flying Freefly Systems' Alta X airframes. Our drones remain efficient and dependable while working in tandem with our eco system. This keeps our team dialed and allows us to work with various camera movement tools on the same day.
We have our "Overweight Exemption" from the FAA so we can legally fly over the 55 lbs restrictions.
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Flight times: 9-12 min
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Airframe Diameter: 7.5 ft
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Max Payload: 35 lbs
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Max Speed: 65 mph
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Setup time: 30 minutes
Drones have revolutionized the way the film and television industries capture stunning visuals and tell compelling stories. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have opened up new possibilities for filmmakers and producers, allowing them to achieve shots that were previously difficult, expensive, or even impossible to capture. In this paper, we will explore how drones are used in the film and TV industries, their benefits, challenges, and the impact they have had on the creative process.
One of the key advantages of using drones in the film and TV industries is their ability to capture breathtaking aerial shots. Drones equipped with high-quality cameras can fly to great heights, providing filmmakers with stunning vistas and perspectives that were once only possible with helicopters or cranes. Aerial shots can add a new dimension to storytelling, allowing filmmakers to establish location, create mood, and engage viewers in a way that ground-level shots cannot.
In addition to aerial shots, drones are also used for dynamic tracking shots and complex camera movements. Drones can fly smoothly and swiftly, following actors or vehicles as they move through a scene. This flexibility allows filmmakers to capture action sequences with precision and creativity, enhancing the visual impact of the final product. Moreover, drones can reach tight spaces or difficult terrain where traditional camera equipment might struggle to navigate, providing filmmakers with more options for shooting locations.
Furthermore, drones are cost-effective alternatives to traditional filmmaking techniques. In the past, capturing aerial shots required renting helicopters or cranes, which could be prohibitively expensive for many productions. Drones are relatively affordable to purchase or rent, making them accessible to filmmakers with varying budgets. This cost-effectiveness has democratized aerial cinematography, allowing independent filmmakers and smaller production companies to compete with larger studios in terms of visual quality.
Despite their numerous benefits, using drones in the film and TV industries also presents challenges. Safety is a major concern when operating drones on set, as they can pose risks to cast, crew, and bystanders if not flown responsibly. Regulations and guidelines governing drone use vary by location, requiring filmmakers to obtain permits, licenses, and insurance before flying drones on set. Additionally, drones are susceptible to weather conditions, such as wind and rain, which can affect their flight stability and camera performance.
Moreover, the use of drones in filmmaking raises ethical considerations regarding privacy and consent. Aerial drones can inadvertently capture footage of individuals or private property without permission, raising concerns about surveillance and intrusion. Filmmakers must navigate these ethical dilemmas carefully, ensuring that they respect the rights and privacy of others while capturing compelling visuals for their projects.
In conclusion, drones have become invaluable tools in the film and TV industries, revolutionizing the way stories are told and visuals are captured. From stunning aerial shots to dynamic tracking sequences, drones offer filmmakers a versatile and cost-effective means of achieving cinematic excellence. While challenges such as safety and privacy considerations must be addressed, the creative possibilities that drones unlock make them an essential component of modern filmmaking. As technology continues to advance, drones will likely play an even greater role in shaping the future of visual storytelling in film and television.