We asked Darren of DE-Design Drones to talk to us about all things drone. Having worked with Darren on a number of projects – some of which being in rather awkward locations, we asked him what you need to consider when organising a drone shoot.

What do you need to consider when arranging a drone shoot?

We will undertake a pre-site survey (desk based) to determine the feasibility of carrying out the drone works on any considered date.
We will usually obtain the following information:
  • Location
  • Date
  • Client expectations
  • Weather conditions (with constant checks being made closer to the commencement date)
  • NOTAMS and flying restrictions (especially near Aerodromes/Airports etc)

What happens on the day of a drone shoot?

On the day of the shoot the pilot will carry out the following:
  • Check the location and record any further hazards that weren’t apparent at the planning stage. This will include a site walk around and the completion of the On-Site Survey document.
  • Assess weather conditions for safe flight operations
  • Designate the take-off/landing location
  • Designate a secondary/emergency landing site
  • Assemble the UAV and place in designated take off location
  • Brief crew/observers on the details of the flight operations and the emergency procedures
  • Remote Pilot to give final decision before carrying out the flight works

What are the main challenges of being a drone operator?

The main challenges are:
  • The most obvious – weather
  • Enough space
  • Gaining control of a site in public domain
  • Risks/Hazards, Air traffic

People often tell us that they find there are so many rules around drones, that getting shots of almost anything with a licensed drone operator is nearly impossible – is that the case? Should they go and buy a drone and risk it themselves?

There are a large number of rules for good reason:
  • An air collision could be catastrophic
  • Damage to people/vehicles/vessels/structures – without the proper insurance
  • As long we plan effectively and obtain as much control of the site as possible, then good shots can be achieved
  • Flying a drone without a license for commercial use is illegal and can incur fines/prosecution – if an accident was to happen then the person would find themselves personally liable for all damages.

So there you have it. Getting those high production-value aerial shots isn’t as simple as chucking a drone up into the air. Lots of planning goes into every shoot to ensure that client expectations are met and that the shots are achieved safely and legally.

If you’re interested in incorporating any aerial footage as part of your video content, get in touch with us today to find out more.