Why Your Drone Pre-Flight Checklist Should Go Beyond the Basics for Your Video Productions

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Drone technology has revolutionized the world of videography, enabling filmmakers and content creators to capture stunning aerial shots that were previously only possible with expensive helicopters or cranes. However, flying a drone and capturing great footage is not as simple as it may seem. It requires careful planning, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols to ensure a successful and incident-free flight. One of the most crucial aspects of drone operation is the pre-flight checklist.

While it may require additional time and effort, investing in a thorough pre-flight checklist pays off in terms of improved footage quality, reduced risks, and overall professionalism.

While most drone operators are aware of the importance of a pre-flight checklist, many tend to focus only on the basics, such as battery levels, propeller integrity, and GPS signal strength. While these elements are indeed essential, a comprehensive pre-flight checklist should go beyond the basics to ensure optimal video production and mitigate potential risks. In this article, we will explore why your drone pre-flight checklist should go beyond the basics for your video productions.

Ensuring Legal Compliance

One of the primary reasons for extending your pre-flight checklist beyond the basics is to ensure legal compliance. Drone regulations and restrictions vary from country to country and even within different regions. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations in your area and ensure that you comply with them before each flight.

Some of the legal aspects to consider include airspace restrictions, permits or authorizations required for certain locations, and compliance with privacy laws. By incorporating these elements into your pre-flight checklist, you can avoid potential legal issues and operate your drone within the boundaries of the law.

Assessing Environmental Factors

Environmental factors play a significant role in determining the success and safety of your drone flight. While basic checks like wind speed and weather conditions are essential, a comprehensive pre-flight checklist should delve deeper into the assessment of environmental factors.

Consider factors such as the presence of electromagnetic interference (EMI), radio frequency interference (RFI), and magnetic interference that could affect the performance of your drone’s sensors, compass, or communication systems. Additionally, evaluate the presence of obstacles, both natural and man-made, that may hinder your flight or pose a risk to the safety of people or property.

Fine-tuning Camera Settings

To capture breathtaking aerial footage, it’s essential to fine-tune your camera settings. While many drones come with automatic camera settings, relying solely on them may not always yield the desired results. By incorporating camera setup and optimization into your pre-flight checklist, you can take full control of your footage and achieve professional-grade results.

Adjust settings such as shutter speed, aperture, ISO, white balance, and exposure compensation to suit the specific lighting conditions and desired cinematic effects. Experimenting with these settings during the pre-flight stage allows you to familiarize yourself with the drone’s camera capabilities and make necessary adjustments for your video production requirements.

Testing Video Transmission

Video transmission is a critical aspect of drone operations, especially when capturing footage in real-time or using first-person view (FPV) goggles. To avoid unexpected video dropouts or signal loss during the flight, it’s essential to test the video transmission system as part of your pre-flight checklist.

Ensure that the video feed from the drone’s camera is stable, clear, and free from artifacts. Test the range and stability of the video transmission system by flying the drone in various directions and distances while monitoring the video feed. Identifying any issues with video transmission beforehand allows you to address them and avoid disruptions during your video production.

Planning Flight Paths

Another aspect of the pre-flight checklist that goes beyond the basics is flight path planning. Instead of relying solely on manual control during the flight, consider utilizing automated flight modes or waypoint navigation systems to optimize your shots and improve the overall quality of your video production.

Plan your flight path carefully, taking into account the desired shots, points of interest, and any specific movements or trajectories you want to capture. By programming the drone to follow a predefined path, you can achieve smoother and more precise camera movements, eliminating the risk of shaky or inconsistent footage.

Utilize features such as Point of Interest (POI) mode, which allows the drone to circle around a specific subject or location, or Follow Me mode, which enables the drone to track and capture footage of a moving target. These automated flight modes not only enhance the quality of your shots but also contribute to a more efficient and controlled flight experience.

Checking Battery Performance

Battery performance is a basic aspect of any pre-flight checklist, but it is worth emphasizing its importance. While most drone batteries provide an estimated flight time, it is essential to account for other variables that can affect battery performance.

Consider factors such as weather conditions (e.g., low temperatures can reduce battery efficiency), payload weight (e.g., additional camera equipment), and flight maneuvers (e.g., aggressive flying or high-speed movements consume more battery power). By factoring in these variables and checking the battery performance beyond a simple voltage level, you can ensure a safe and uninterrupted flight without the risk of a mid-air battery failure.

Assessing Emergency Procedures

No matter how thorough your pre-flight checklist is, unexpected situations may arise during drone operations. Therefore, it is crucial to include emergency procedures as part of your pre-flight preparations.

Familiarize yourself with the drone’s emergency features, such as Return-to-Home (RTH) function or manual landing options. Understand how to initiate these procedures in case of a lost signal, low battery, or any other critical situation. Additionally, have a plan in place for handling emergencies such as sudden weather changes, equipment malfunctions, or unexpected obstacles. By proactively considering these scenarios and preparing for them, you can minimize potential risks and ensure the safety of your equipment, yourself, and others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a comprehensive pre-flight checklist that goes beyond the basics is crucial for optimizing your drone operations and video productions. By extending your checklist to include legal compliance, environmental assessments, camera settings, video transmission tests, flight path planning, battery performance checks, and emergency procedures, you ensure a safer and more successful flight experience.

While it may require additional time and effort, investing in a thorough pre-flight checklist pays off in terms of improved footage quality, reduced risks, and overall professionalism. So, before you embark on your next drone video production, make sure to go beyond the basics and incorporate these essential elements into your pre-flight preparations. Happy flying and capturing stunning aerial shots!

Rob Haller 314-604-6544 stlouisdrones@gmail.com

Elevate Your Video Productions with These Essential Drone Shots for A-Roll, B-Roll and Stock Footage.

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As video content becomes increasingly important in today’s digital landscape, businesses and content creators are constantly seeking new ways to make their videos stand out. One of the most effective ways to do this is through the use of drone shots for B-roll footage. With the ability to capture stunning aerial views and dynamic movements, drone footage can add a level of visual interest and production value that simply can’t be achieved with traditional camera setups. In this post, we’ll cover some essential drone shots that you should consider incorporating into your B-roll footage to elevate your video production to the next level.

Drone Video Crews Shooting A-Roll, B-Roll and Stock Footage for Many Diverse Productions in St. Louis

Establishing Shots

First and foremost, it’s important to establish the setting of your video with a sweeping aerial shot. This can be done with a simple horizontal pan or a more complex flyover shot. Establishing shots give the viewer a sense of the overall location and can be used to set the tone for the rest of the video. For example, if you’re creating a travel vlog, an establishing shot of the destination can immediately transport the viewer to that location and set the scene for the rest of the video.

Top-Down Shots

Top-down shots are an excellent way to showcase the layout and design of a location, whether it’s an interior space or an outdoor landscape. These shots can be used to show off intricate architecture, landscaping, or natural formations. Top-down shots are also great for establishing a sense of scale, as they allow viewers to see the entire area from a bird’s-eye view.

Orbit Shots

Orbit shots involve circling around a subject or location, and they’re great for showcasing a specific object or area in detail. These shots work well for both indoor and outdoor locations, and they can be used to highlight specific features or elements of a location. For example, if you’re creating a video about a new building, an orbit shot can be used to showcase the building’s design and unique features.

Flyover Shots

Flyover shots involve flying the drone over a location or subject, creating a sense of movement and direction. These shots work well for showcasing large outdoor locations such as parks, beaches, or cityscapes. Flyover shots can be used to create a cinematic feel, as the movement of the drone adds a dynamic element to the footage.

Revealing Shots

Revealing shots involve starting with a close-up shot of a subject and then pulling back to reveal the larger setting. This type of shot can be used to build anticipation or to reveal a surprise element in the video. For example, if you’re creating a video about a new restaurant, you could start with a close-up shot of the chef preparing a dish, and then reveal the restaurant’s interior as the camera pulls back.

Point of Interest Shots

Point of interest shots involve hovering the drone over a specific object or location, providing a static shot of the subject. These shots work well for showcasing intricate details or patterns, such as a close-up shot of a building’s facade or a shot of a geometric pattern in a field. Point of interest shots can also be used to highlight a specific element of a location, such as a fountain or sculpture.

Tracking Shots

Tracking shots involve following a subject as it moves through a location, creating a sense of movement and direction. These shots work well for action-oriented videos or for showcasing movement within a location, such as people walking through a city or waves crashing on a beach. Tracking shots can add a level of energy and excitement to the footage, making it more engaging for the viewer.

Conclusion

Incorporating drone shots into your B-roll footage can take your video production to the next level. With the ability to capture stunning aerial views and dynamic movements, drone footage can add a level of visual interest and production value that simply can’t be achieved with traditional camera setups. By using these essential drone shots, you can create a more immersive experience for your viewers and showcase your subject or location in a unique and visually stunning way.

It’s important to note that while drones can capture some incredible footage, they also come with their own set of challenges and safety considerations. Always make sure to follow local regulations and guidelines for drone use, and consider hiring a professional drone operator if you’re not experienced in flying drones yourself.

In conclusion, incorporating drone shots into your B-roll footage can elevate your video production and provide viewers with a more immersive experience. With the ability to capture sweeping aerial views, dynamic movements, and intricate details, drones offer a unique perspective that can set your video apart from the rest. Experiment with these essential drone shots and see how they can take your video content to the next level.

Rob Haller 314-604-6544 stlouisdrones@gmail.com

The Role of Storytelling in Commercial Video Production

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Storytelling can transport viewers. It’s key for any marketing strategy.

Storytelling? Ancient art! For centuries, it has wowed audiences! Nowadays, in commercial video production, it’s super-popular.

With storytelling, firms craft captivating, interactive content—great for promoting products and services.

In this article, let’s look at the importance of storytelling in commercial video production and how to use it.

Definition of storytelling

Storytelling has an important part in commercial video production. It connects the audience with the message or brand conveyed through film. It is the way of making a real or imaginary tale that moves its viewers emotionally and intellectually.

Through storytelling, filmmakers attempt to charm their watchers by presenting them with stimulating ideas, original perspectives and interactive images that delve deep into the narrative.

Storytelling in video production can take many forms such as dialogue, music and visuals. By using these techniques correctly, audio-visual storytellers can make stories that are both entertaining and educative. Documentary films and advertisements also use this method to increase audience engagement, particularly when targeting young people.

In commercial videos, storytelling is focused on stirring up emotion from audiences which leads to action (e.g. product purchase). To deliver these messages successfully, filmmakers must concentrate on creating absorbing narratives that join together multiple elements such as visuals, sound cues, dialogue and more. The result should be a piece of visual content that stands out due to its ability to both amuse and make strong connections built through story-telling strategies – without this, there would be no relationship between customer and brand!

Benefits of storytelling in commercial video production

Storytelling is essential in commercial video production. It helps to deliver messages and emotions better to viewers.

Utilizing storytelling has many benefits. It creates a connection with the audience. They can bond with the characters in the video, making a lasting impression.

Also, storytelling makes a video more interesting than facts or technical information. It creates suspense and intrigue, keeping viewers’ attention.

Moreover, storytelling gives commercial videos an opportunity for creativity. It allows thoughts to be explored through visuals, making the experience memorable.

Types of Storytelling

Storytelling is a must in commercial video production. It helps make an emotional bond between the audience and the brand. It also shows products or services in a creative way.

What are the different types of storytelling? In this article, we’ll examine the storytelling techniques that can be used in commercial video production.

Narrative Storytelling

Narrative storytelling is an emotional truth conveyer. It can give your video a sense of character and connection. It usually follows three acts: beginning, middle and end. Characters in conflict, a clear resolution and minimal language to maximize impact.

When crafting narrative-style video content, consider: What’s the story? How will you tell it?

Commercial videos can include voiceovers, dialogue, interviews with real people, props, soundscapes and kinetic motion. Storytelling offers unique elements to your project and can elevate its impact fourfold.

Visual Storytelling

Visual storytelling has charmed audiences for centuries. It is a technique which combines visuals like filming, lighting, composition, and color to form an intriguing story. This medium uses images and sound to express feelings and to connect viewers with the story.

Visual storytelling isn’t just for short films. Companies can use it for commercials too. Creating an original story for the commercial will help separate it from others. It keeps people interested rather than just displaying facts.

Using visuals in commercial videos is vital for visual storytelling. It helps set the mood and establish tone. Objects or animation with symbolic meaning can help the audience comprehend the story better, and leave them with a lasting impression.

Interactive Storytelling

Interactive storytelling is popular in modern times. It’s often used in commercial video production. It involves giving the audience a narrative and allowing them to shape events by engaging. This can be done through games, polls, immersive experiences, and branching stories.

It allows viewers to take part in the action and direct plot lines. This is important as attention spans shorten and digital media becomes more immersive.

An example of interactive storytelling might be an interactive YouTube or social media video. This could use polls or questionnaires to give viewers a choice between two plot lines. It creates engagement and ensures viewers stay invested in the narrative. This type of experience could be very valuable for commercial video production aiming for engagement and lead generation.

Techniques of Storytelling

Storytelling can be an incredible tool in commercial video production. Conflict, plot, characters and dialogue can help make your story come alive!

Here, we examine how these techniques can be used correctly to craft captivating videos that draw in viewers. We’ll also look at the significance of storytelling techniques and the outcome they have on commercial video production.

Use of Music

Music is great for storytelling! It can set a tone, introduce themes, and add emotion. A well-crafted soundtrack can make viewers feel: joyous, sorrowful, or even excited. Music can draw people into the story, build tension, and highlight important moments.

Types of music for video production include: classical, jazz, blues, rock & roll, pop, and more. Sound and visuals should work together, telling the story and engaging viewers. Filmmakers should explore different approaches when using music in their projects.

Use of Dialogue

Dialogue is vital for storytelling in any medium. Natural conversations between characters that capture emotion will draw the audience in, creating a connection to the characters.

In commercial video production, dialogue can establish relationship dynamics and exposition, while also creating a chance for branding. Actors should sound natural; their words should match the visuals, without being too rehearsed or scripted. Suspenseful moments, plus humor, can be created with dialogue.

Dialogue can bridge products to viewer experiences or stories, showing customers why they should invest in them. Companies must find ways to keep customers engaged by providing entertaining story diagrams, rather than just product descriptions and facts. Powerful stories with characters that people are invested in are essential for surviving in the competitive market!

Use of Visuals

Visual storytelling is essential for commercial video production. It helps viewers connect with images and emotions. Visuals can highlight concepts, characters, and actions. Editing techniques, like jump cuts or slow-motion, create interest and suspense. Colors, tones, and shading reflect underlying themes. Locations, props, and graphics tell stories without dialogue.

Sound design choices, like soundtrack cues or background music, add impact. Every detail counts towards bringing a story alive onscreen.

Examples of Storytelling in Commercial Video Production

Storytelling is a powerful tool. It can capture the attention of potential customers and keep them engaged while they watch your commercial video. Music, visuals, dialogue and captivating narration are all great ways to tell a story through video.

Here we’ll explore some examples of how storytelling has been used in commercial video production – successfully!

Apple’s “Think Different” Campaign

Apple’s “Think Different” campaign was a TV ad that launched in 1997. It featured people who achieved amazing things with their imagination and creativity. The commercial wanted to show Apple as an innovative brand and to inspire people to think differently. It used powerful storytelling to show the influence of these personalities on the world.

The video started with lots of colors and people from many backgrounds. It had inspiring narration that showed Apple’s revolutionary spirit. The goal was for people to realize the influence of exceptional figures in history, instead of only looking at tradition and process.

The narration said: “To those who have seen things differently… To those brave enough to try to change the world – because they do… Here’s to you.” This emotional message helped make this campaign one of Apple’s best.

Old Spice’s “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” Campaign

Old Spice’s “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” campaign in 2010 was a huge success! It was cleverly written and used humor to promote the brand in an unexpected way. Former NFL athlete Isaiah Mustafa was the star of the commercials. He spoke directly to women, giving them tips on how their men could become irresistible with Old Spice body wash.

In one commercial, Mustafa joked about never getting a man anything for Father’s Day – all while wearing a bear costume. He then explained that, if his man used Old Spice body wash, he’d be so attractive she wouldn’t have to bother getting him a gift. The content had viewers engaged and amused.

Old Spice also had a great distribution strategy. They created spin-offs from their original commercials that viewers could watch on YouTube or Hulu. People could vote for what they wanted The Man to do next by sending tweets with specific hashtags. This interactive storytelling enabled people to make content tailored to them.

“The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” became iconic. It showed how important storytelling is when creating effective video content for brand campaigns or products. Old Spice used innovative scriptwriting, humor, and interactive elements with online distribution strategies to deliver compelling messages that kept consumer attention during each commercial.

Nike’s “Just Do It” Campaign

The idea of storytelling is key to video production. Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign is a classic example of using narrative in advertising. It began in 1988 when Dan Wieden from Wieden+Kennedy wrote the slogan. The goal was to inspire people and show them anything can be achieved with effort and dedication.

The first ad featured Steve Prefontaine, an Olympic runner. It showed clips from competitions and interviews of him talking about his ambition. This created an atmosphere of striving for excellence.

Since 1988, the slogan has been used in other media. Celebrities like Tinker Hatfield, LeBron James, Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams have represented the brand. They’ve also invested in apparel design and digital channels, like their sponsorship of TikTok during the China-US conflict in 2020.

Video content reaches audiences around the world. Brands use visuals and stories that are recognizable across cultures – much like the success of the “Just Do It” campaign in the past 30 years.

Conclusion

An effective story arc can make a commercial engaging. For example, a commercial about quality could end with a character taking action. This is more memorable than a voiceover reminder.

Storytelling can transport viewers. It’s key for any marketing strategy. Creative visuals and dialogue can capture audience attention. A powerful message can be conveyed, no matter industry or revenue size.

Rob Haller 314-604-6544 stlouisdrones@gmail.com

How to Incorporate Ground Video Footage with Aerial Shots for Maximum Impact.

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Using the different perspectives of aerial and ground footage, you can create a narrative arc that will keep viewers engaged and help them understand the story.

Aerial photography and videography are becoming increasingly popular for film and video production, offering unique perspectives and stunning visuals that capture attention and create maximum impact. But incorporating ground video footage with aerial shots can take your production to the next level, creating an engaging, immersive experience for viewers. By blending the two formats in creative and strategic ways, you can create a captivating video that tells a story and has a lasting impression. This article will discuss the various techniques for combining aerial and ground footage to create a truly impactful video.

Benefits of Combining Aerial and Ground Footage

When aerial and ground footage are used together, they can create a powerful and dynamic visual experience. Ground footage gives viewers a sense of immersion, making them feel like they are part of the action. Aerial footage, on the other hand, gives viewers a wider perspective and allows them to take in the entire scene. When combined, these two elements can create a truly captivating video.

In addition to creating a visually stimulating experience, combining aerial and ground footage can also help you tell a story. By using the different perspectives of aerial and ground footage, you can create a narrative arc that will keep viewers engaged and help them understand the story.

Finally, combining aerial and ground footage can also help you to create a unique aesthetic for your video. By using the two different formats in creative ways, you can create a visually stunning video that stands out from the crowd.

Types of Ground Footage

When incorporating ground footage into your video, there are several different types of shots you can use. For example, you can use close-up shots to create a more intimate feel, or you can use wide shots to give viewers a broader perspective. You can also use tracking shots to follow a subject and create a sense of movement, or you can use handheld shots to add a sense of energy and excitement.

In addition, you can also use timelapse shots to speed up a scene and create a sense of urgency, or you can use slow motion shots to emphasize a moment or draw out a scene. Finally, you can use drone shots to give viewers an aerial perspective while still providing the intimacy of being on the ground.

*Video ground crew taping interviews and b-roll at ACE Hardware.*

Types of Aerial Footage

When incorporating aerial footage into your video, there are several different types of shots you can use. For example, you can use wide-angle shots to capture the entire scene and give viewers a sense of the landscape. You can also use medium shots to focus on a specific area, or you can use close-up shots to create intense and dramatic visuals.

In addition, you can also use low-altitude shots to create a sense of intimacy and urgency, or you can use high-altitude shots to give viewers a sense of perspective and scale. You can also use tracking shots to follow a subject and create a sense of movement, or you can use static shots to emphasize a moment or draw out a scene.

Tips for Combining Aerial and Ground Footage

When combining aerial and ground footage, it’s important to think strategically about how the two formats can be used together to create a captivating video. Here are some tips for combining aerial and ground footage:

Use a variety of different shots. By using a variety of shots from different angles and perspectives, you can create a more dynamic and engaging video.
Think about the story. When combining aerial and ground footage, think about how each shot fits into the story you’re trying to tell.
Balance the two formats. Make sure to use a balanced mix of aerial and ground footage, so that neither format overpowers the other.
Use transitions. When transitioning from one shot to another, use creative transitions to keep viewers engaged.
Consider the lighting. Pay attention to the lighting in both aerial and ground shots, and make sure the two formats are well-balanced.

Best Practices for Editing Ground and Aerial Footage

When editing aerial and ground footage, it’s important to consider the different formats and how they interact with each other. Here are some best practices for editing aerial and ground footage:

Use color-correction. When editing aerial and ground footage, use color-correction to ensure that the two formats match in terms of color and tone.
Match the tempo. When combining aerial and ground footage, make sure that the tempo of each format is matched. This will create a more cohesive and unified video.
Add music. Music can help to tie the two formats together and create a more captivating video.
Use effects. Effects such as slow motion and time-lapses can help to create a more dynamic and engaging video.
Consider sound design. Sound design can help to create a more immersive experience for viewers, and can be used to transition between shots.

Creative Ways of Incorporating Ground and Aerial Footage

When incorporating aerial and ground footage into your video, it’s important to be creative and think outside the box. Here are some creative ways of incorporating aerial and ground footage:

Use the aerial footage to give viewers a sense of scale. For example, you can use aerial footage to show how small a person is compared to the environment around them.
Use the aerial footage to emphasize a moment. For example, you can use aerial footage of a crowd to emphasize the emotion of the moment.
Use the aerial footage to create an introduction. For example, you can use aerial footage to introduce a scene and set the tone for the video.
Use the aerial footage to create a transition. For example, you can use aerial footage to transition from one scene to another.
Use the aerial footage to show the passage of time. For example, you can use aerial footage to show the progression of a day or the passing of a season.

*Birdseye view aerial of city intersection b-roll footage for interviews.*

Tips for Shooting Great Aerial and Ground Footage

When shooting aerial and ground footage, there are several tips to keep in mind. Here are a few tips for shooting great aerial and ground footage:

Use a high-quality camera. By using a high-quality camera, you can ensure that your footage is sharp and vibrant.
Use a stabilizer. When shooting aerial footage, make sure to use a stabilizer to keep your shots steady and smooth.
Use a gimbal. When shooting ground footage, make sure to use a gimbal to keep your shots stable and level.
Use a drone. When shooting aerial footage, make sure to use a drone to get the best angles and perspectives.
Use a tripod. When shooting ground footage, make sure to use a tripod to keep your shots steady and consistent.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Combining Aerial and Ground Footage

When combining aerial and ground footage, there are several mistakes to avoid. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when combining aerial and ground footage:

Not using a variety of shots. Make sure to use a variety of shots from different perspectives and angles to create a dynamic and engaging video.
Not considering the story. Make sure to consider how each shot fits into the story you’re trying to tell, and how the aerial and ground footage can be used together to create a narrative arc.
Not balancing the two formats. Make sure to use a balanced mix of aerial and ground footage, so that neither format overpowers the other.
Not using transitions. When transitioning from one shot to another, make sure to use creative transitions to keep viewers engaged.
Not considering the lighting. Pay attention to the lighting in both aerial and ground shots, and make sure the two formats are well-balanced.

Conclusion

Aerial and ground footage can be used together to create a powerful and captivating video. By using the different perspectives of aerial and ground footage, you can create a narrative arc that will keep viewers engaged and help them understand the story. In addition, by using a variety of shots from different angles and perspectives, you can create a more dynamic and engaging video. Finally, by using creative transitions and considering the lighting, you can create a visually stunning video that stands out from the crowd. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be able to incorporate ground video footage with aerial shots for maximum impact.

stlouisdrones@gmail.com
Robert Haller, Drone Specialist
314-604-6544

Trust Our FAA licensed and Insured Professional Drone Photography and Aerial Videography Services.

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We have dedicated video editors that are highly experienced in using the best software and tools to get the most out of your videos.

Are you looking for an innovative way to promote your business or capture special moments? Professional drone photography and aerial videography can help you do just that. Our professional team has the knowledge, skill and expertise to provide you with quality services you can trust. Here are five reasons why you should choose us for all your drone photography and aerial videography needs.

Trust Our Professional Drone Photography

At St Louis Drones, we provide professional drone photography and aerial videography services. Our team of professionals possess expertise and years of experience in aerial and drone photography, making us the perfect choice for all your aerial photography needs.

Here are five reasons why you should trust our professional drone photography and aerial videography services:

1. Enhance the Quality of Any Images: With the development of photography drones, real estate brokers, agents and companies have been able to enhance the quality of any images they present to their clients. We use the latest drone technology to capture stunning aerial shots of a property that a regular camera can’t replicate.

2. Capture Unique Angles: Drones are now able to get under structures and take detailed photographs. They can also get better quality photos from the roof and chimneys as well. This allows us to capture unique angles of a property, giving potential buyers a better understanding of the property without having to visit in person.

3. Create Video Tours of the Location: Our team of professionals also use drones to shoot video footage as well as photographs. This means you can create a custom video tour of the property, highlighting its features and allowing potential buyers to visualize the lifestyle that the listing has to offer.

4. Showcase Luxury Properties: If you’re selling a luxury property, using high-resolution 4K cameras on drones can deliver expansive, cinematic images and videos of a property’s interior and exterior areas from multiple angles. Aerial drone photography can truly capture and sell the ambience of a property.

5. Boost Your Marketing Efforts: Using drones can give you the edge over your competitors and make your listings even more attractive and eye-catching. You can add drone photographs to social media, include them in direct mail campaigns, or even use particularly impressive shots on signage or billboards.

Trust our professional drone photography and aerial videography services to showcase your properties in the best light possible. Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help you leverage real estate drone photography for your business!

Certified Licensed and Insured Pilots

At St. Louis Drones we understand the importance of hiring certified, licensed, and insured drone pilots for your aerial production needs. Our professional pilots are FAA-certified and have passed a rigorous exam to demonstrate their proficiency in English and their physical and mental ability to operate a drone safely.

Licensed pilots are experienced in flying unmanned aerial systems in a variety of conditions and can provide high-quality video and photography from a unique perspective. This is an invaluable asset for real estate professionals, as it offers potential buyers an in-depth look at the property and its surroundings.

By hiring a licensed and insured pilot, you can also rest assured that you are complying with all FAA regulations, avoiding any potential fines or jail time. At St. Louis Drone, our pilots are insured up to $1M in the event of a drone incident.

Our licenses are always current, and we are experienced in capturing cinematic footage that enhances our clients’ reputations in the industry. We offer professional aerial production services at an affordable price, so you can get the best value for your money.

At St. Louis Drones, we take pride in providing our clients with cutting-edge technologies that help them stay competitive. If you’re looking for exceptional aerial imagery for your videos, websites, brochures, and more, contact us today to request a free quote.

High-Resolution Cameras

For professional-level aerial photography and videography, you need more than just a good drone – you need one with a powerful camera. The DJI Inspire 2 & Zenmuse X5S is the perfect choice for people looking to get the most out of their aerial footage. This drone features a Micro Four Thirds 20.8MP sensor that can capture stills in JPEG and Raw formats, and video in C4K (cinematic 4K) up to 30fps, 4K up to 30fps, 2.7K up to 60fps, and FHD and HD up to 120fps in both Standard and D-Log color profiles.

The adjustable aperture of f/2.8 – f/11 allows users to control shutter speed using ND filters and the aperture, so you can get the exact image you want. In addition, you can also take advantage of 10-bit D-Log and all the low-light benefits of the large sensor. Its large size also makes it easier to spot in the sky from a safety perspective.

Not only does this drone offer high-resolution images, but it also has an advanced return to home (avoiding and re-routing around objects), and excellent battery life of up to 27 minutes. With these features, you can be sure you’ll get the shot you need without any hassle.

The DJI Inspire 2 & Zenmuse X5S is the perfect choice for those looking for professional-level drone photography and videography. With its high-resolution camera, adjustable aperture, 10-bit D-Log, and long range and battery life, you can trust that your photos and videos will turn out exactly how you wanted them to.

Dedicated Video Editors

At our professional drone photography and aerial videography services, we understand that video editing is an essential part of the process. That’s why we have dedicated video editors that are highly experienced in using the best software and tools to get the most out of your videos.

We pride ourselves on using the best drone footage editing software available; Adobe Premiere Pro (PC/Mac), Final Cut Pro (Mac) and Movie Maker 10 (PC). These powerful platforms enable us to edit your drone footage with ease.

Adobe Premiere Pro (PC/Mac) offers a range of features that allow us to enhance the quality of your drone footage. It supports editing drone videos easily like trimming, splitting, merging, adding music, adding subtitles, adding filters, adding transitions, recording voice, and more. Thanks to its GPU acceleration technology, it can be up to 47x faster than other tools.

Final Cut Pro (Mac) is well-known for its intuitive interface and easy features that make it super simple to use. It allows us to speed up, slow down, adjust color, convert DJI D-Log to Rec.709, reduce noise and much more.

Movie Maker 10 (PC) provides a range of amazing effects, Instagram-like filters, blending modes, different shaped masks, motion tracking tool, social networks sharing, 4K and HD export, popular formats supported, video stabilization tool, video file converter, DVD burning tool, YouTube uploader, and more.

Our team of dedicated video editors are ready to take on any challenge and transform your drone videos into works of art. With years of deep familiarity with video editing processes, we guarantee you will be happy with the results. Not to mention, you can rest assured that our software and tools are 100% safe and secure, and will never have access to your files.

Provide Clients with Breathtaking Drone Pictures

Our professional drone photography and aerial videography services provide clients with breathtaking drone pictures. Our experienced drone pilots use high-quality drones and professional cameras to capture crystal-clear images that will take your breath away. Whether you are looking for promotional videos, commercials, or special event recordings, our stunning aerial footage can be used for a variety of purposes. At our company, we have extensive experience in aerial photography and videography. This means that you can trust that whatever images we provide will be of the highest quality. We also offer post-production services such as editing and color correction to ensure that you get the most out of your drone photography and videography services. With us, you know that you are getting stunning aerial footage that will take your breath away.

stlouisdrones@gmail.com
Robert Haller, Drone Specialist
314-604-6544

Award-winning, FAA Safety Certified Drone Pilots Who Serve in the St. Louis Area

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Drone video of indoor and outdoor clips by our FAA certified pilots

To add to your brand, you want the most impressive video drone shots. Our Creative Video Team consists of a group of FAA Certified Drone Pilots in St. Louis, plus additional pilots certified by the FAA throughout the Midwest. We can make your next video project truly unique.

The St. Louis group providing drone video has developed top-notch video footage for BJC, Boeing, Nestle Purina, AB-InBev, Ameren, and a host of commercial real estate firms and film producers.

It is our belief that the quality of a project can be greatly improved by the addition of drone footage. Hence, we strongly suggest that our clients incorporate drone video into their creative work.

If you’re in need of a drone-related video, whether it be for marketing purposes, aerial photography, or simply for editing your footage, our drone specialists have all your bases covered.

Filming Inside Using a Drone

It is possible to use drone imagery to generate unique footage even within interior spaces!

For the AB InBev construction project our creative drone team two different drones to acquire shots not easily achievable by most pilots and crews. As project proceeded we also had safety spotters communicating with phones in real time so we could shoot closer to the large cranes on site. We also had some high winds with bad weather, but were able to continue to fly as the drone was able to begin with a dramatic pan across the construction site then hone in on a single load lift. Moreover, the drone was able to capture the shots better and safely with the added safety spotters on site with the drone pilot.

Events Captured through Drone Videography

Capturing events with drone video is essential for showcasing their significance. We’ve shot for many special events, ground breakings, grand opening ceremonies and construction topping out celebrations.

For Alberici our team took footage of the large American Flag being raised with the last steel beam for placement. We were able to add the crowd in the background that had gathered for the occasion, adding to the atmosphere of the video.

Documentarians utilized drone footage to illustrate a more comprehensive story of events. We’ve shot stories for Cahokia Mounds, national events for

St. Louis and multiple company histories with local landmarks in the shots. With unique camera movements the footage promptly conveyed that something extraordinary was about to take place.

Construction progress drone imagery for AB InBev

Capturing Visuals with Drone Technology for Multiple Platforms

Our drone crews all started with shooting ground stills and video. We have the capacity to grasp the creative and scientific requirements of our customer’s projects when it comes to aerial photography and videography.

Our team thoroughly examines all possible applications of the project, such as print, video, social media, web, and/or TV. Our primary objective is to ensure our customers have a collection of material they can reuse for any future platform. In order to maximize efficiency, we always put emphasis on shooting correctly the first time.

To acquire useful video materials for your branding, contact out multimedia drone professionals.

stlouisdrones@gmail.com
Robert Haller, Drone Specialist
314-604-6544

Drone inspections for roof and gutter systems

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A roof is vital for any residential or commercial building because it protects the structure from extreme weather conditions, heavy winds, and snow. A sustainable roof maintains and supports the structure of a building. Because it withstands the weather, a roof often suffers wear and tear over time. It deteriorates the structure and stability of the roof. It is important to use a regular roof inspection to avoid emergency repairs that result in major expenses. A commercial drone may decrease the need for man-hours to inspect the roof and overcome all of the difficulties associated with traditional inspection methods. A neglected gutter may also cause a decline in performance and cause water ingression. Regular checks are needed to avert a number of issues.

Reduced manpower, equipment, and time demands are just a few of the benefits associated with using drones. Because of this, we can perform a comprehensive inspection in a brief amount of time. We can also save money by avoiding the expense of labor and climbing gear. Drones help in numerous ways to save money, which would otherwise be unattainable using conventional methods. We can avoid safety risks by using drones in lieu of traditional inspection methods. Using traditional methods to examine roofs and gutters requires physical personnel to be physically present at a working location. The drone can prevent any damage to a roof or gutter by eliminating the need for personnel to walk on the roof.

*Drone inspections of roof and gutter systems for your commercial or residential property.*

A roof inspection using drones allows us to inspect every corner and every difficult-to-reach spot. Using drones, we can collect data using high-definition images and videos. When we inspect a roof using drones, we can examine a wider region without the risk of being at a higher elevation. We can also avoid physical damage that may occur with traditional inspection methods. As a result, we can identify defects including buckling, missing or damaged shingles, and gaps in the roof. It is critical to detect these issues as soon as possible to avoid potential risks and expenses. Blocked pipes, broken joints, rusty, corroded, or undesirable plant growth can all be spotted with regular gutter inspections.

stlouisdrones@gmail.com
Robert Haller, Drone Specialist
314-604-6544

Why You Should Consider Drone Video and Photography for Your Live Events

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Aside from the obvious benefits of being able to shoot photos and videos from the air, drones provide a new dimension of visual storytelling for live events. The ability to capture shots that are otherwise unattainable—and the flexibility to get them quickly—is what sets drone video and photography for live events apart from other aerial videos. Whether you’re shooting small concerts, private corporate events or large public gatherings, incorporating drone video and photography into your production can greatly enhance your final product.

Why Are Drones Great for Live Events?

Aerial photography and videography is still a relatively new practice, and using drones for live events is even newer. So why should you consider using them for your next gig? Here are just a few reasons why drone video and photography are an awesome addition to your live event production. Live events are unscripted, unpredictable and fast-moving. Drones allow you to be flexible, adaptable and quickly respond to changing circumstances. This is essential in live events because you never know what’s going to happen. You can’t be over-prepared; it’s just not practical. Drones allow you to capture shots you would never be able to get any other way. They provide a fresh perspective that is both exciting and dramatic. Just one or two shots from a drone can make your entire production stand out. Drones are also a great way to shoot aerial B-roll as well as get different angles on elements within your scene without having to place yourself in dangerous or uncomfortable positions.

Small FPV Drone for outside and inside events

What Type of Drone Should You Use for Live Events?

Simply put, if you’re using a drone at a live event, you want the best quality footage you can get. Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all drone for all situations, so you want to find the drone that’s best for your needs. There are many different options for drones, but you should always consider a professional drone with a licensed pilot. For the best possible footage, you should fly with a professional-grade drone. These drones are designed to be as operator-friendly as possible and have a lot of built-in features that improve image quality, stability and ease of use. You’ll also need an FAA Part 107 commercial drone license to fly these drones in public.

Outside drone footage for BJC employee event

Drone Footage Options

If you don’t have a plan for the footage you shoot from the drone, you’re wasting a great opportunity. Here are a few ways you can use drone footage in your live event production. – B-Roll: B-roll is any shot that’s not the primary subject of a scene. This can include shots of the venue, the crowd, etc. Using a drone for B-roll footage is a great way to add variety and visual interest to your shots. – Cutaways: Cutaways are images that are used to transition from one scene to the next. They provide a quick visual reference to build continuity throughout your production. You can also use drone B-roll as cutaways to build a visual story throughout your video. – Close-Ups: Using a drone to get close-up shots of your main subjects is a great way to bring them to life and showcase the emotion behind them. You can also use a drone to get close-up shots of props, special effects and more to add a different perspective to your scene.

Drone Video and Photography Basics

With the footage you’ve shot (and perhaps the B-roll you’ve collected), it’s time to start editing. Capturing visually stunning footage is great, but it means nothing if you can’t edit it into a compelling story. Here are a few tips for editing drone video and photography into a great live event production. – Build a visual story: Visual storytelling is an essential part of any live event production, but it’s even more important when using drone video and photography. You want to build a visual story that makes your audience feel something—whether it be excitement, awe or something else. – Keep it short: While you want to take advantage of the unique opportunity to use drone video and photography at your live event, you also don’t want to overdo it. Use color, contrast and movement: There’s a lot you can do with editing to make your drone video and photography pop. Use color contrast to create visual interest. Use movement to draw attention to specific elements. – Tell a story: While you want each shot to be visually stunning, they should all tell a larger story. Every element of your production should be there to move your audience in some way.

Call on our crew to get the job done right and safely.

Drones are a great addition to any live event production. They allow you to quickly get shots that would otherwise be impossible. Make sure you’re using the best possible drone for your needs and you’ll be able to create some truly stunning footage. With great footage, you can create visually stunning videos that will stand out among the competition.

stlouisdrones@gmail.com
Robert Haller, Drone Specialist
314-604-6544