In today’s movie world, drones have become one of the most important tools in filmmaking. From big-budget Hollywood blockbusters to indie films and streaming shows, drone cinematography is changing the way stories are told on screen. These flying cameras give directors a whole new way to capture stunning shots—without the need for helicopters or cranes.
Let’s take a look at how drones are used in the film industry, and how you can break into this exciting career with the right training.
Why Hollywood Loves Drones
Drones offer something that traditional film gear can’t: epic aerial shots at a lower cost. In the past, filmmakers had to rent helicopters or build expensive rigs to get sweeping landscape shots or high-speed chases. Now, a skilled drone pilot can do it with just a backpack of gear.
Here’s why drones are perfect for filmmaking:
- Budget-friendly – Drones save production companies thousands of dollars
- Flexible – Fly indoors, outdoors, through tight spaces, or around moving cars
- Creative – Capture shots from new angles, heights, and distances
- Quick setup – Less crew, less equipment, faster results
That’s why you’ll see drones being used in action scenes, opening landscape shots, chase sequences, and even quiet emotional moments. They add depth and drama in ways that were impossible before.
Movies and Shows That Used Drones
Many of today’s most popular films and shows rely on drones for their most unforgettable visuals.
Examples include:
- Skyfall – Drone shots gave James Bond’s action scenes a bird’s-eye view
- The Revenant – Sweeping nature shots were filmed using drones
- Stranger Things – Drones helped build the eerie, wide-angle look of the town
- Fast & Furious 7 – High-speed chases filmed with FPV drones for intense energy
- Game of Thrones – Battle and castle scenes often used drones for scale
These productions trust professional drone teams who can deliver perfect footage—safely and legally.
What Does a Drone Cinematographer Do?
A drone cinematographer is more than just a pilot—they’re a visual storyteller. Their job is to capture smooth, dramatic, and emotional footage that fits the scene’s mood.
Duties include:
- Planning flight paths based on the script and director’s vision
- Flying with precision and timing for complicated shots
- Working closely with camera operators, lighting crews, and directors
- Using professional cameras and drones (often custom rigs)
- Editing raw footage to match the film’s tone and color style
Drone cinematographers often work with FPV (first-person view) drones for action scenes, and stabilized camera drones for cinematic visuals.
Skills You Need to Work in Drone Cinematography
Breaking into film work takes more than owning a drone. You need a mix of flying skill, creative vision, and professional training. Directors rely on drone pilots who can deliver quality footage without error.
Here’s what you need to stand out:
- FAA Part 107 Certification – Required for commercial filming
- Manual drone control skills – Flying smoothly and safely
- Understanding of camera settings – ISO, shutter speed, frame rate
- Shot composition and movement – Learning to “paint” with the drone
- Experience flying in complex environments – Indoors, tight spaces, moving vehicles
- Team communication – Working on set with large crews and changing schedules
These skills are exactly what you’ll learn at Drone Universities, especially in their Advanced Aerial Cinematography course. Taught by working professionals who film for networks like Discovery Channel and National Geographic, this course gives you the tools to go from hobbyist to Hollywood-ready.
Drones vs Helicopters in Film
In the past, helicopters were the only option for aerial footage. Today, drones are replacing them in many scenes.
| Feature | Helicopters | Drones |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $10,000+ per day | $500–$2,000 per day |
| Setup Time | Hours (permits, crew, landing) | Minutes |
| Safety | High risk near buildings/people | Lower risk, safer at low altitudes |
| Camera Angles | Limited to wide shots | Dynamic, low-level, or indoor shots |
| Flexibility | Requires airspace clearance | LAANC approval often same-day |
While helicopters are still used for certain long-distance shots, drones are quickly becoming the go-to option for most productions.
How to Get Hired in Film Drone Work
Filmmakers don’t just want someone with a drone—they want someone they can trust. Here’s how to break in:
- Train with professionals – Get FAA certified and learn from experts at Drone Universities
- Build a demo reel – Show off cinematic shots, smooth flying, and creative angles
- Network locally – Offer to work on indie films or student projects
- Use online job boards – Check sites like Staff Me Up, ProductionHUB, or Upwork
- Show up with the right gear and attitude – Be early, be ready, be professional
At Drone Universities, you’ll not only train on real film gear, but also learn how to work on set, meet deadlines, and deliver high-end footage.
Drone cinematography is one of the most exciting careers in film today. It combines technology, creativity, and adventure—all while helping bring stories to life.
Ready to start your drone career? Register now with Drone Universities
