Helicopter Not Included: An Aerial Videography Love Story

By Playfish Media’s Assistant Producer, Morgan McClanahan

I have to admit; I was skeptical about drones at first. My first thoughts uncontrollably drifted towards dystopian novels like 1984, and the fear of big brother buzzing over my house was enough for me to write them off completely. I couldn’t kick the thought of those futuristic package delivery companies spying on me while simultaneously delivering packages to my elderly neighbors, and found myself so annoyed (and still do) when people would bring them to campgrounds or on hikes.

Then, heart be still, I had the opportunity to use one. From then on, I was completely and utterly hooked. It was a bad case of drone videography love, and I had been struck with an insatiable desire to explore the depths of abandoned lots, mountainous terrain, and mystical PNW beaches. The footage that these machines can capture is breathtaking, and the cinematic possibilities are endless (and nothing short of magical). From wide pans to regal establishing shots- the movement is seemingly limitless. It can capture those Kubrickian forest pans that made me the cinephile that I am, with nothing but a battery, a controller, and a few small propellers. Forget the helicopter, aerial footage is now not only accessible, but quite literally at our fingertips! It can make the smallest things look intricate, and sometimes eve grandiose, just by changing the camera’s perspective.

It also helped to learn that there are pretty strict drone laws, especially in WA state, and tedious training programs for drone operators to attend. Seattle Drone Pro operates in full compliance with the FAA’s Part 107 regulations for Small Unmanned Aerial Systems and our operators are licensed and have obtained their remote pilot certificate. All this jargon to say, we take the laws seriously, and do some pretty intensive and thorough planning before every single flight.

I started researching all of the possibilities and work that had been done with drones. This is a relatively new frontier, but one that will revolutionize video production. From filming properties, to nature shots, aerial shots for music videos to film production- drones provide a unique perspective that no other affordable camera or service is able to offer.

Still not convinced? I understand. Check out some of these videos that may help sway your understanding of just how versatile drone footage can be:

Below is a video from inside the new SR 99 Tunnel in downtown Seattle

And here is some aerial footage that we captured out in the PNW wilderness

Pretty cool, right?

Have an idea for a drone videography or photography project? Drop us a line at info@seattledronepro.com.