Questions to ask

Preparation is crucial and as always will ultimately save you money by avoiding any poor decisions. Here are some questions to ask before you start talking to suppliers:

What is the subject matter of your shoot?

What is the range of shots you need to achieve?

Do you need the camera to look vertically downwards?

How stable do your pictures need to be. Need to be very stable for CGI or backplate work. Or for long focal length lenses

Where is it taking place?

What camera and format will you be shooting with?

Is it air to air or air to ground or both?

Is your subject moving or static?

If moving, what speed will it be travelling at and over what type of terrain?

Is there a landing site near by? If not, how far is it to the subject?

Are there any physical restrictions such as altitude limits due to buildings, power lines, proximity to people?

Will the camera & mount be rigged at location or at the aircraft’s base?

How many people do you need to fly?

Are you shooting day, night or magic hour?

Will you need to land to change lenses or re-load?

Is your flight classed as Public Transport or Aerial Work?

Does your aircraft company have an Air Operator's Certificate (AOC)

The answers to these questions will help to determine what type of camera / mount / aircraft you will need