Your guide to Drone Videography

(Almost) everything you need to know about drone videography in media production.

Drone videography has been around for about a decade, although drones have been used for aerial photography since the early 2000s. However, it wasn't until around 2010 that drones became more accessible to the public, thanks to advancements in technology, the development of smaller, affordable quadcopters, and improvements in camera quality.

The big leap came in 2013 with the release of drones like the DJI Phantom, which allowed hobbyists and professionals to capture high-quality video from the air without needing a helicopter or expensive equipment. Since then, drone videography has exploded in popularity and has been used in a wide range of industries, from film production to real estate, travel, and even agriculture.

Aerial shot of a landscape using drone videography

The use of drones has also revolutionized certain types of action and sports filmmaking, allowing for smooth, dynamic shots that follow fast-moving subjects or capture sweeping views without heavy, cumbersome equipment. Some notable productions that have incorporated drone videography include:

• "Game of Thrones": The show used drones for many of its vast, sweeping landscape shots.

• "The Mandalorian": Drones have been used for certain action scenes and establishing shots in this series.

• Commercials and Music Videos: High-budget brands and artists often use drones for stunning aerial shots in commercials and videos, as seen in ads for companies like Mercedes-Benz or the music video for "Wolves" by Kanye West.

Drone videography has made aerial shots more accessible, creative, and budget-friendly for high-end productions, with cinematic-grade drones offering high-quality cameras that rival traditional filmmaking equipment.

How viable is drone videography as a business?

With the explosion in popularity, you may ask 'Is drone videography viable as a business? Well, we at Argyle media may be biased... However we've come to uderstand that drone videography is definitely a viable business, especially now that the technology has become more affordable and accessible. There’s a growing demand for aerial footage across a lot of industries.

For instance, real estate agents often need drones to showcase properties from unique angles, and filmmakers, whether independent or in larger productions, are using them for those dramatic shots that add a whole new dimension to the scene. Even in the event space, like weddings or sports, people love having drone footage to capture those big moments from the sky.

If you're starting out, there's room to carve a niche, whether that's specializing in real estate, events, or working with smaller productions. Plus, drones can save a lot of time and money compared to traditional methods like helicopters or cranes, which makes them even more attractive to clients. As the market keeps growing, so do the opportunities. The key is to get the right equipment, know the legalities (since there are regulations around drone flying), and market yourself effectively to stand out in a competitive space.

Drone videography sounds fun! How do I become a commercial drone pilot?

To become a commercial drone pilot for videography in the UK, you'll need to obtain Permission for Commercial Operations (PfCO) from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We've written a quick breakdown of the steps below, but remember - It's important to do your own research before you decide if Drone videography is for you.

1. Complete a CAA-Approved Training Course: To get your PfCO, you must first take a training course from a CAA-approved provider. The course will cover drone operation, airspace rules, safety, and risk assessments. The duration varies but usually takes a few days.

2. Pass a Practical Flight Test: You’ll need to demonstrate your flying skills through a practical test. This involves safely flying the drone under the supervision of an instructor or assessor.

3. Submit Your Application: After completing the training and flight test, submit your application to the CAA. They’ll review your documents and issue your PfCO if everything is in order.

4. Get Drone Insurance: Commercial drone pilots must have insurance, typically covering liability in case of accidents. Some training courses offer insurance as part of the package, or you can purchase it separately.

5. Understand Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the CAA’s Drone Code, which includes rules like keeping your drone within visual line of sight and avoiding restricted airspace. You must also stay updated on airspace restrictions and seek permission to fly in controlled areas if needed.

6. Get a drone!: Ensure your drone is suitable for videography, with a high-quality camera and stability for smooth footage. Popular models like the DJI Inspire are commonly used in the industry.

   
   

What are some best drones for videography?

When getting started, you may not want to shell out £20,000+ (Its' easily done!) on state-of-the-art drone hardware. Its important to know that you can get stunning, professional-grade photography and videography done with under £1000 budget. That being said - What are the best drones for a beginner drone videographer?

• DJI Mini 3 or Mini 3 Pro: These are great options for beginners who want a drone that’s easy to fly but still delivers excellent video quality. The Mini 3 series offers 4K video and has a compact design, making it both affordable and portable. The Mini 3 Pro even has advanced features like obstacle sensors and longer battery life.

• DJI Air 2S: A step up from the Mini 3, the DJI Air 2S provides excellent 5.4K video quality, making it perfect for someone who wants better footage without a steep learning curve. It also offers obstacle sensors, intelligent flight modes, and a solid 31-minute battery life.

• Autel Robotics EVO Nano+: A competitor to DJI’s Mini drones, the EVO Nano+ offers 4K video in a compact, easy-to-fly package. It's also beginner-friendly with a strong focus on safety and stability, while being a great option for someone looking for high-quality footage on a budget.

• DJI Mini 2: If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, the Mini 2 is a solid option. It’s easy to fly, shoots 4K video, and is incredibly lightweight, making it ideal for beginner videographers who don’t need all the bells and whistles of higher-end models.

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A career for the adventurer!

If you’re passionate about videography and photography, it’s an exciting field because the possibilities are endless—you're not just capturing static images; you're capturing dynamic, aerial perspectives that offer fresh ways to tell stories. Plus, with the increasing demand for drone footage in media and marketing, there are plenty of opportunities to work on unique projects.

As for interesting places, yes, you are likely to travel to some amazing locations. From shooting weddings on scenic beaches or remote mountain resorts, to filming nature documentaries in wildlife reserves, or even working on international projects in places like tropical islands or historic sites—being a drone pilot can take you to some visually stunning and diverse locations. You might even have the chance to film sporting events, concerts, or travel commercials, all of which could involve high-profile locations.

The flexibility of the work is another benefit. You can choose to work as a freelancer, which gives you the freedom to travel and take on projects that interest you. Alternatively, you could work for a production company, travel agency, or real estate firm that requires drone videography, each offering different types of experiences.