Pro Moviemaker Spring 2019

AERIAL FILMMAKER DRONES INTHE DARK

IMAGES There are still strict rules attached to flying drones during the hours of darkness, covering the positioning of lights and the need for extensive daytime scouting

regulations that dictate what’s needed, such as daytime scouts, positioning lights and additional spotters. With all these things in place, it’s become a great addition to what we can do. “Flying after dark doesn’t involve a dramatic shift in the way we work. Depending on the location we’re using we might spend more time during the prep working on things, such as reference points and the altitude of the highest trees in the vicinity. But once you have those key factors worked out you’re aware of the main hazards, and it’s not really

after sunset, which posed a lot of issues for us. For example, years ago I shot an IBM spot with a blind ultra-marathon runner and we had this amazing practising sequence that took place on an empty soccer field. Even though I had my drone and pilot available for the shoot, due to the regulations, we weren’t allowed to fly there at night. “Fast forward to 2017 and with the new regulations in place, we can now legally fly at night in the US. Initially, however, it was daunting, and if you’re not prepared it can be dangerous. The FAA has clear

“Flying after dark doesn’t involve a dramatic shift in the way we work”

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PRO MOVIEMAKER SPRING 2019

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