Drones have made aerial video common, but for many projects a crewed helicopter or aeroplane is still the right tool: longer distances, higher altitudes, bigger cameras and places where drones are not allowed. Here is how professional aerial photo and video shoots are planned.
Helicopter, aeroplane or drone?
- Helicopter: the most flexible. It can hover, fly slowly, circle a subject and fly with the doors off for an open camera view.
- Aeroplane: efficient for long distances, mapping and large-area photography.
- Drone: great for low, close shots over small areas, but limited in range, altitude and payload, and restricted near airports and many sensitive locations.
Permissions come first
Aerial photography in India needs prior permissions from the relevant authorities, especially over cities, near airports and around sensitive or defence areas. The aircraft operator and the production team work together on the applications, so start the process well before the shoot date. Building the shoot schedule around confirmed permissions avoids expensive delays.
Camera equipment
- Gyro-stabilised gimbal mounts give smooth footage even in turbulence.
- Door-off or open-window filming needs secure harnesses for the camera operator and approved mounting.
- Every mount and piece of equipment must be approved for that aircraft and secured; loose items are a serious hazard.
Light and weather
The best light is usually in the early morning and late afternoon, the "golden hours". Haze, cloud and wind affect both image quality and safety, so keep backup dates. Monsoon months need extra flexibility.
Plan every shot
- Write a shot list with locations, angles and the time of day for each.
- Share reference images with the pilot so they understand the look you want.
- Agree hand signals and intercom calls between the pilot, camera operator and director.
- Group shots by area to save flying time.
On the day
- Attend the safety briefing and follow the crew's instructions at all times.
- Do a short test flight or first pass to check framing and exposure.
- The pilot always has the final say on safety: altitude, distance from people and obstacles, and weather.
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