ROUND TABLE
WB: Precision and safety rely on effective communication, and the costs and risks in our line of work are simply too high to leave this to chance. Clear, standardised protocols and dedicated radio frequencies ensure uninterrupted communication between ground and aerial teams. Pre-shoot briefings outline every team member’s role, the sequence of shots and contingency plans. Some aerial companies simply use an open radio frequency, hopping channels until they find a seemingly quiet one, but this can lead to interference, delays and even security breaches. We operate on dedicated, private channels assigned by aviation authorities. This prevents outside chatter from disrupting critical instructions, eliminates the risk of press leaks and ensures only essential crew members are involved in real-time decision-making. We have an aerial coordinator who is a seasoned operations manager with over a decade of experience in the helicopter industry. Her in-depth knowledge of aviation protocols and direct access to multiple aircraft and crews ensures every moving part of the operation functions seamlessly. We’re a highly synchronised unit that has worked together for years. This deep trust and familiarity creates an environment where everyone understands their role, responsibilities and the critical nature of clear, procedural communication. Interference with this level of cohesion from outside parties inevitably forms cracks – miscommunications arise, assumptions replace clear directives and safety margins shrink. In aviation, assumptions are the first step toward failure. That’s why our communication approach is built on transparency, precision and a shared commitment to the highest standards of safety and efficiency. Whether adapting to last-minute creative changes or responding to shifting environmental conditions, our system ensures every
something a drone simply couldn’t sustain over the necessary distance. However, on another project we combined drones for detailed close-ups with a helicopter for sweeping aerials, seamlessly blending the two perspectives. Every shoot is unique, and our approach is always tailored to maximise both creative potential and efficiency. By understanding the strengths of each platform and how they work together, we ensure productions get the best of both worlds. EB: It’s usually clear whether it’s a drone or helicopter that’s the right tool for the shot, but there’s often a deeper conversation about which of the various drones we operate is going to get closest to the creative intention, especially since drones are now such flexible tools. This can be a discussion about location, speed, accuracy, flight time, camera and lens payload, style of flight, using hand launch or landing techniques to move between ground and aerial. We’ll usually have more than one type of drone on-set so we can shift between an FPV and either a heavy- lift or Inspire 3 drone. JM: Many factors influence the choice of aerial platform, not least of which is cost. Aircraft flight characteristics, capabilities and environmental impact also play a vital part in platform choice. Weather conditions obviously also have influence over the decision, with drones much more susceptible to adverse conditions. Flight duration is always key, and impact on the ground is particularly applicable when considering operations with a helicopter. DEF: HOW DO YOU MANAGE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN GROUND TEAMS AND AERIAL OPERATORS TO ENSURE A SEAMLESS AND SAFE SHOOT? JB: Radio and video links are essential, as is having a good team on the end of them. A clear central point of communication, often via an aerial coordinator, is crucial.
ALL WEATHERS Marzano Films tailors platform choice and shooting times to the conditions
decision is made with clarity, confidence and complete situational awareness. EB: When working with a big team on the ground, the ADs facilitate communication, manage set control and ensure a safe, organised working environment. They help coordinate movement, lock down areas where needed and relay critical information between departments, allowing us to focus on getting the shot. Clear communication and effective planning through the AD department are essential to our operations. Without their support, executing complex drone shots – especially on large-scale productions – would be nearly impossible. OS: Communication is essential, but must be managed well to avoid overwhelming pilots during flights. Experienced camera operators act as a bridge between the pilot and the creative team, so critical information can be relayed efficiently. JM: For successful drone operations, our drone teams always communicate through a closed-network headset intercom system. Our teams are also in radio communication via the production network, allowing for direct communication with various production departments, including the first AD. Prior to flight operations, Marzano Films provides all involved parties with a set of aerial
EVERY SHOOT IS unique , AND OUR APPROACH IS always tailored ”
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