Why use drones for shooting videos
Unlike in years past, there are countless ways to capture amazing quality aerial (drone) views. The most common example is using the camera of a portable drone. Drones allow you to shoot from unconventional angles and perspectives. This means that we no longer have to get close to the object to find the perfect shot. In other words, harnessing the potential of drone videography will help you see the object from a whole new perspective.
Want to try your hand at recording drone videos and don’t know where to start? We have a few suggestions to help you out!
Drone video tips
If you want to record drone videos, you don’t necessarily need any additional equipment or special techniques, you can just fly the drone and see how it goes. However, there are a few things to consider to make the shooting process smoother and easier for you.
Since the sensors of most modern drones for filming, such as Mavic or Phantom, don’t have such an impressive dynamic range as movie cameras yet, it is very important to shoot at the right time of day. For example, the golden hour — this is the time of sunrise and sunset. In this case, you can be sure that you will have the best natural light and you will be able to get the most beautiful views.
Be sure to use ND filters to limit the amount of light that enters your lens. Thus, ND filters will help you to keep the shutter speed in the required range, regardless of what frame rate you use. This means that you will get the most natural motion blur effect in the frame, which will make your video look much more cinematic. It will also help to avoid slight shaking of the picture, which happens at too short shutter speed from the vibration of the drone.
Try to keep all movements soft and smooth. It will also add a cinematic touch to your footage. The most common mistake new drone filmmakers make is going too fast. Of course, there are situations when you need to fly fast, but firstly, you need to know why you are doing it, and secondly, be much more careful not to fly into some kind of obstacle.
Drone video ideas
Learning to fly a drone is only one part of the recording process. The other part involves using this drone to create art. To film impressive shots, a good understanding of composition, exposure, plot, colors, and so on is very useful. Since you want to create an attractive image, you will need to combine different elements or shoot from different heights to see what works best. Being creative will make your shots stand out more.
Experiment with different angles, shots and styles. This approach will allow you to get your own creative juices flowing. If you don’t have a clear idea from the get-go, try out different types of drone shots:
- Panning — this type is great for quick cuts or adding dynamism to videos.
- Revealing — this one helps to show the surrounding area more majestic and impressive.
- Chasing — if you’re looking for a great final shot or an action shot, this is the best option. However, you will need some dexterity since such shots can be quite hard to operate at high speeds.
- The bird’s-eye panning — this is a classic shot. Same as simple panning, only very high above the ground. A great shot if you want to convey the beauty of the area. Plus, making it is pretty easy: you just need to find a launch point, fly the drone at your chosen altitude, and then gently pan the camera to view the area.
- Exploring — this type of shot doesn’t require any specific moves. You simply fly the drone, look for a beautiful view, and use your piloting skills and vision for creative purposes. With the help of a drone, you can achieve excellent shots – and they will not be wasted.
Recording beautiful aerial views doesn’t stop after the drone lands. The process of creating a great drone video continues until you edit video footage. Even if you think that you can't improve something that already looks impressive, you can. For example, add music to your drone videos to further enhance their beauty and emphasize the feel or emotion that you were capturing.
