aerial video production

For safety and quality, we often shoot with a two-man crew, and we are fully insured.  We adhere to FAA guidelines.  Our pilot always keeps visual contact with the drone, while our navigator guides and directs the shot. Video is taken back to the studio and cropped and stabilized for universal viewing.  All video and still images are high definition (HD) and digital for universal media acceptance.

Indoor Drone shot FPV First Person View style

Aerial video production in St. Louis.  We get the best Arch shots.
Aerial video production in St. Louis. We get the best Arch shots.

The Inspire has a curved lens design which eliminates distortion, and the 20mm focal length opens up your shots to a remarkably wide angle without that fish-eye look.  The camera shoots video at 4K, 4096 x 2150 High Definition.

St Louis Commercial Real Estate Aerial Drone Videos and Photography
St Louis Commercial Real Estate Aerial Drone Videos and Photography

The 3-axis gimbal constantly draws on data fed by the intelligent flight controller, so it knows the aircraft’s flight parameters and computes the proper motion correction every millisecond.  Such precision is only possible because of the ultra-fast, custom-made processor that is unique to the Inspire gimbal. Operating at speeds that allow the gimbal to compensate for motion and tilt in real-time, this processor controls motors on all three axes: yaw, tilt, and roll.  All resulting in very smooth and completely stable shots.

The world’s largest crane shot in Pekin, IL

Benefits of both aerial and ground video to shoot your interviews and b-roll.

Aerial and ground-based videos can be great for showing interviews and b-roll. A drone or other low flying device can give viewers an exciting insight. Ground based shots provide a personal feel and can capture detail not seen from the air.

Using aerial video for interviews and b-roll shots can add more impact. It’s perfect for capturing important moments in a dynamic way. Ground based video shooting can interview subjects up close and provide detailed footage missed from the air.

For maximum impact, it’s important to pursue both types of shooting when creating your next project.

Benefits of Aerial Video

Aerial video offers a totally different angle. It can enhance traditional video interviews and b-roll footage. It adds more impact to the story and brings attention to the interview.

Aerial video can be used to:

  • Show beautiful places connected to the story
  • Show a city overview, so the viewer can understand the scale
  • Provide extra shots for the narrative
  • Highlight a point in time, with unique camera angles and speeds

Aerial video, captured correctly and under the right conditions, can be captivating. It makes any production better. Good quality cameras with 4K resolution are now accessible and cost effective, so you can include an aerial element in your productions.

Benefits of Ground Video

Ground video has lots of advantages when shooting interviews or b-rolls. One of the most important is that you can get many types of shots without needing to spend a lot of money or time.

It adds an intimate feel to your shots, which helps the audience connect with the subject and the story. Plus, it gives you lots of creative options with composition, framing, and perspective. Ground cameras are more portable than drones or panel-mounted cameras, so you can move between locations quickly if needed.

Also, using ground cameras instead of drones or panel-mounted cameras means you don’t need certain licenses from the FAA. That can save you money and lower the risk of unintentional violations in certain areas.

Overall, ground video is a very cost-effective way to capture interviews and b-rolls for projects of any size.

Comparing Aerial and Ground Video

Aerial or Ground video? That’s the question when it comes to shooting interviews or b-roll for your next project. Both have potential benefits and unique elements for storytelling.

Aerial video offers a different perspective. From the sky, we get to experience nature in a way that’s hard to replicate. Plus, you don’t need cameras on dollies or cranes – just an unmanned aircraft with advanced camera tech!

Ground video gives an immediate connection to the action on screen. The viewer is close enough to feel the details. Plus, more intricate camera movements are possible. Steadicam rigs and jibs don’t require special flying permits, so they’re easier and faster to set up.

When deciding between aerial or ground video, consider 3 things: skill set, restrictions (budget + time) and the overall look desired. These will help you decide which style suits your production best.

Choosing the Right Video Type

When shooting a project, it is important to understand the difference between ground and aerial video. Ground video involves cameras positioned close to the ground, such as handheld cameras on tripods or boom poles. Aerial video is shot from drones, planes or helicopters, giving unique perspectives not able to be achieved on the ground.

When deciding which video to use, several factors should be taken into consideration. Ground video offers flexibility and stability, great for interviews or b-roll in small spaces. It’s also typically less expensive than aerial videography.

Aerial videography provides a different view from the sky, but can be difficult to keep stable in the air. Weather conditions like wind and precipitation can limit visibility or range of the drone.

Both videos have their own advantages and disadvantages based on project needs and budget constraints. Thinking of creative solutions that work within those variables is key!

Equipment Needed for Aerial and Ground Video

Aerial video production requires a drone, camera, and remote controller. The drone camera attachment needs to be compatible with either an Android or iPhone device. The camera for ground video shoots should be lightweight and can range from a DSLR camera, camcorder, or a mirrorless camera with a stabilized focus system.

Tripods come in various configurations, including aluminum alloy legs for extra stability. They can fit into large backpacks, but users should measure so they don’t suffer weight limitations when travelling. This can prevent delays and disappointments.

Ground video production also requires a camera and a tripod. With the right equipment and preparation, one can shoot high-quality aerial and ground video.

Tips for Shooting Interviews and B-Roll

When filming interviews and B-roll, there are several factors to consider. Camera angles, lighting, equipment, and the location itself. Utilizing aerial and ground video will provide the best coverage.

To get amazing results with a drone, conditions must be considered. Wind should not be too strong, and the area should be well lit. Natural light is best, and all regulations should be followed, such as FAA regulations in the United States.

When shooting interviews on the ground, camera angle, lighting, and background should be considered. Professional lighting can elevate an interview, but natural light can work well too. Lastly, a backdrop should be chosen that adds something eye-catching or narratively relevant. Props such as posters and signs can help create more powerful imagery.

Conclusion

Summing up, it’s up to you to decide between aerial and ground video. Aerial video gives you a bigger picture and a majestic bird’s-eye view – perfect for interviews. Ground video, however, is great for closer and steadier shots. Plus, it’s usually cheaper and easier.

To get the best of both worlds, why not use a mix of aerial and ground video? You’ll definitely get the desired outcome.

314-604-6544
Robert Haller, St Louis Video Producer
St Louis Video Production Companies
stlouisvideoproductioncompanies@gmail.com