Tips & Tricks: How to Produce Amazing Aerial Videos with your Drone

If you’re looking to capture the most stunning aerial footage with your drone, you’ve come to the right place. This article will provide you with some tips and tricks that will help you elevate your drone videography game. From keeping your clips short to flying close to objects in the foreground, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll even show you how to reverse clips in post to add an extra layer of creativity to your footage. So let’s dive in and take your aerial videography to new heights!

Start off with very quick highlights

Just like a song or essay’s hook, a brief teaser at the beginning of your video is a great way to catch your audience’s attention. Show some of the best shots but keep it short, about 1 second per clip, so you don’t give away everything.

Keep Clips Short

When it comes to aerial videography, keeping your clips short is crucial. Long, drawn-out shots can quickly become boring for your audience. Instead, aim for shorter clips that capture the essence of your subject.

Think of your aerial footage as a highlight reel. You want to showcase the most exciting and visually stunning moments in a concise, engaging way. By keeping your clips short, you’ll keep your audience’s attention and leave them wanting more.

One way to ensure your clips stay short is to plan out your shots in advance. Before you take to the skies, think about what you want to capture and how you can do it in a few quick shots. This will help you stay focused and avoid unnecessary footage.

Another tip is to use editing software to trim your footage down to the best bits. You can also add transitions between clips to make your video flow smoothly. Remember, the goal is to create an engaging, visually stunning video that your audience will love.

Fly Close to Objects in Foreground

Don’t be scared! When it comes to capturing the best aerial video with your drone, it’s important to pay attention to the objects in the foreground. By flying close to these objects, you can add a sense of depth and perspective to your footage, making it more visually appealing to your audience.

Imagine flying your drone over a beautiful landscape, but everything in the shot looks flat and lifeless. By flying closer to a tree, rock or other object, you can create a more dynamic shot that draws the viewer’s eye towards the horizon.

But be careful, flying too close to objects can be dangerous for both your drone and the object itself. Always make sure to fly at a safe distance and avoid any potential collisions.

One way to ensure your shots are safe and visually stunning is to use the “orbit” mode on your drone. This allows you to fly in a circular pattern around a specific object, keeping it in focus while also capturing the surrounding scenery.

Another tip is to use the “reveal” technique, where you start your shot close to an object and then slowly pull back to reveal the larger scene. This creates a sense of anticipation and drama, keeping your viewers engaged throughout the entire shot:

By incorporating the objects in the foreground and using these techniques, you can take your aerial videography to the next level and create stunning and captivating footage that will impress your audience.

Reverse Clips in Post

So, you have captured some great aerial footage with your drone, but now you want to add some creative flair to your video. One way to do that is by using the reverse clip technique, which can add a unique perspective to your footage. In this article, we’ll show you how to reverse clips in post and give you a few tips on how to incorporate this technique for the best results.

First, let’s talk about what a reverse clip is. Simply put, it’s a clip that plays in reverse, starting from the end and playing backward. This technique can be used to create a dramatic effect, such as a bird flying backward or a car reversing out of a driveway. It can also be used to smooth out transitions between clips or create a time-lapse effect.

To create a reverse clip, you’ll need video editing software that supports this feature. Most professional editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, have this capability. The process is fairly simple: import your clip into your editing software, right-click on the clip, and select “reverse speed” or a similar option. The clip will then play in reverse.

Now, let’s talk about how to use this technique effectively. One tip is to use it sparingly. While a reverse clip can add a unique perspective to your footage, too many can be overwhelming and distracting. Having nearby objects appear in the foreground adds great depth and perspective, and if there are no give-aways that the footage is reversed also looks like you’re a great pilot!

In conclusion, using the reverse clip technique can add a creative touch to your aerial video footage. By following the simple steps outlined above and incorporating these tips, you can create stunning videos that will leave your audience in awe. Give it a try and see how it can take your aerial videography to the next level.

How to Properly Plan Your Aerial Video Shoot

Aerial videography has become more accessible to filmmakers and videographers with the advent of drones. However, capturing stunning footage requires more than just flying your drone around aimlessly. Proper planning is essential to ensure that your footage is not only visually appealing but also tells a story. Here are some tips on how to plan your aerial video shoot for the best results.

1. Scout Your Location

Before you fly your drone, it’s crucial to scout the location where you plan to shoot. This allows you to identify potential hazards and obstacles that could affect your flight. It also helps you to determine the best takeoff and landing locations, as well as the direction and altitude of your drone for optimal footage. You can use Google Earth or other maps to plan your flight path and scout your location.

Always keep flight restrictions in mind and be sure you will be allowed to fly at your planned location. A great resource for this is the AirMap app. Also I recommend checking for restrictions before heading out to your location!

2. Consider the Time of Day

The time of day you shoot affects the lighting and mood of your footage. Early morning and late afternoon are great times to shoot because the light is softer, and the shadows are longer, creating a more cinematic look. Avoid shooting in the middle of the day when the light is harsh and can create unflattering shadows. Take note of the sun’s position and how it affects your location and the subject you’re filming.

The obstacle avoidance sensors on DJI drones need plenty of light to operate at their full potential, so keep that in mind while flying as the sun sets. You’ll want to keep clear of nearby objects if you’re not totally confident in your piloting skills.

3. Plan Your Shots

To capture great footage, you need to plan your shots in advance. Think about the story you want to tell and the shots you need to capture it. Consider the camera angle, movement, and composition. Create a shot list to ensure that you capture all the shots you need. Remember to mix up your shots with wide, medium, and close-up shots to keep your footage interesting.

4. Check the Weather

Before you fly your drone, check the weather forecast for the day. Avoid flying if there are high winds, rain, or thunderstorms. These conditions can affect your drone’s stability and make it difficult to control. Also, be aware of any temperature extremes, as they can affect your drone’s battery life and performance.

5. Fly Responsibly

Finally, always fly your drone responsibly. Follow all FAA regulations and guidelines, as well as any local laws and regulations. Respect people’s privacy and avoid flying over private property without permission. Make sure that you’re not putting anyone’s safety at risk and that you’re not causing any disturbance or harm to wildlife or the environment.

By following these tips, you can plan your aerial video shoot like a pro and capture stunning footage that tells a story. Happy flying!

Wrapping up: Soar to New Heights with Your Aerial Videos

Now that you know the tips and tricks to get the best aerial video with your drone, it’s time to put them to the test. Remember to start with a bang and capture those breathtaking highlights at the beginning of your video. Keep your clips short and sweet to maintain your viewer’s attention. Get up close and personal with objects in the foreground to add depth and dimension to your videos. And don’t be afraid to experiment with post-production tricks for a unique perspective.
With these tips, your aerial videos will soar to new heights and leave your audience in awe. So go ahead, grab your drone and take flight. The possibilities are endless when it comes to aerial videography, and with these tips, you’ll be sure to capture stunning footage every time. Happy flying!