A good filming pilot is essential for a successful aerial shoot as it is the teamwork between the cameraman and pilot that creates the shot. This is because the pilot is controlling an airborne moving camera platform in much the same way as a grip controls a dolly or a crane on the ground. Whilst the camera operator can frame the shot, he will be limited in the amount he can pan and tilt, so he relies on the pilot to point the aircraft and the camera in the right direction. Ideally the pilot should have as much experience of filming as possible. Before you commit to a pilot, check their flying and filming credentials, ask around too. If you're happy, then you're in good hands.
Aerial filming is potentially dangerous. You will often want to film at low altitude or in close proximity to buildings or mountains and canyons, and it is important that the pilot feels comfortable with this and he should say when he feels that safety is being compromised. Although there are strict regulations as to minimum altitude and proximity to objects, it is all too easy to go just that bit closer or lower when pushed by an eager director to get the perfect shot and if the unexpected happens such as wind shear, turbulence or bird strike, then there is little or no room to recover and the consequences can be fatal! Remember, the pilot always has the final say on what can and can't be done.
