Planning and Pre-production

III. Planning and Pre-production

• Assessing location and lighting conditions for drone videography
• Obtaining necessary permissions and insurance for drone operations
• Developing a shot list and storyboard for a drone video project
• Establishing communication and collaboration with clients and crew
• Preparing for the shoot, including charging batteries, packing equipment, and conducting a pre-flight check

Assessing location and lighting conditions for drone videography: This section could cover the importance of considering the location and lighting conditions when planning a drone video project. It could discuss factors such as the time of day, the weather, and the surroundings, and how these can affect the quality and aesthetics of the footage. It could also introduce students to techniques for scouting and evaluating locations, such as using maps, photos, and aerial imagery.

Here are some more detailed points that could be included in the “Assessing location and lighting conditions for drone videography” section of a drone videography course:

• Time of day: This section could explain how the time of day can affect the lighting and shadows in a scene, and how to choose the best time of day for a particular shot. For example, early morning or late afternoon can produce softer, warmer, and more directional light, which can be more flattering and aesthetically pleasing for certain subjects. Midday can produce harder, cooler, and more evenly lit scenes, which can be more suitable for capturing details and textures.
• Weather: This section could explain how the weather can affect the lighting, visibility, and stability of a scene, and how to choose the best weather conditions for a particular shot. For example, clear and sunny days can produce bright and contrasty scenes, which can be more suitable for capturing colors and details. Cloudy and overcast days can produce softer and more evenly lit scenes, which can be more suitable for capturing mood and atmosphere.
• Surroundings: This section could explain how the surroundings of a scene can affect the composition and context of the footage, and how to choose the best surroundings for a particular shot. For example, a busy and cluttered background can distract from the subject and reduce the impact of the shot, while a simple and uncluttered background can enhance the subject and create a more cohesive image.
• Scouting and evaluating locations: This section could introduce students to techniques for scouting and evaluating locations, such as using maps, photos, and aerial imagery. It could explain how to use these resources to plan and visualize the shots that are possible at a particular location, and how to identify potential challenges or opportunities that may affect the shoot. It could also discuss the importance of obtaining necessary permissions and insurance for drone operations, and how to ensure that the shoot is safe, legal, and respectful of the location and its surroundings.

By understanding the importance of considering the location and lighting conditions when planning a drone video project, students can learn how to choose the best location and lighting for their specific needs and goals, and how to scout and evaluate locations to ensure that they are suitable and practical.

Obtaining necessary permissions and insurance for drone operations: This section could explain the importance of obtaining the necessary permissions and insurance for drone operations, and how to go about doing so. It could cover topics such as obtaining airspace authorization, obtaining consent from property owners, and purchasing liability insurance. It could also discuss the implications of not following the required procedures, such as fines and legal liability.

Here are some more detailed points that could be included in the “Obtaining necessary permissions and insurance for drone operations” section of a drone videography course:

• Airspace authorization: This section could explain how to obtain authorization to fly a drone in controlled airspace, such as near airports or military bases. It could cover the process for obtaining a waiver or authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the requirements that must be met in order to qualify for a waiver. It could also explain how to check the airspace status and restrictions using tools such as the FAA’s B4UFLY app or the LAANC system, and how to follow the requirements and procedures that are in place for each specific airspace.
• Consent from property owners: This section could explain how to obtain consent from property owners before flying a drone over their property. It could cover the legal considerations and liabilities that may be involved, and how to seek and secure permission from the property owner in a respectful and professional manner. It could also explain the importance of respecting privacy and trespassing laws, and how to minimize the risk of conflicts or complaints.
• Liability insurance: This section could explain the importance of purchasing liability insurance for drone operations, and how to go about doing so. It could cover the types of coverage that are available, such as third-party liability, physical damage, and personal injury, and how to choose the right coverage for the specific needs and risks of the operation. It could also explain the exclusions and limitations that may apply to the coverage, and the importance of understanding and complying with the terms and conditions of the policy.

By understanding the importance of obtaining the necessary permissions and insurance for drone operations, students can learn how to operate safely and responsibly, and how to protect themselves and others from potential risks and liabilities.

Developing a shot list and storyboard for a drone video project: This section could teach students how to plan and organize a drone video project, including how to create a shot list and a storyboard. It could cover techniques for visualizing and communicating the desired shots and camera movements, and for determining the necessary equipment and resources. It could also discuss the importance of adapting to changes and unexpected challenges during the planning process.

Here are some more detailed points that could be included in the “Developing a shot list and storyboard for a drone video project” section of a drone videography course:

• Shot list: This section could explain how to create a shot list, which is a document that lists all of the shots that are required for a video project, including the shot type, camera movement, and subject. It could cover the different types of shots that are available, such as wide shots, medium shots, close-ups, and aerial shots, and how to choose the right shot for a particular purpose. It could also explain how to describe the camera movement, such as pan, tilt, and zoom, and how to specify the subject or focus of the shot.
• Storyboard: This section could explain how to create a storyboard, which is a visual representation of the shots and sequence of a video project. It could cover the different elements that can be included in a storyboard, such as the shot type, camera movement, subject, and dialogue, and how to use these elements to convey the intended story and mood. It could also explain how to create a storyboard using sketches, software, or other tools, and how to use the storyboard as a reference and guide during the shoot.
• Planning and organizing: This section could discuss the importance of planning and organizing a drone video project, and how to do so effectively. It could cover techniques for visualizing and communicating the desired shots and camera movements, and for determining the necessary equipment and resources. It could also explain how to adapt to changes and unexpected challenges during the planning process, and how to stay flexible and creative while still maintaining control and focus.

By understanding how to develop a shot list and storyboard for a drone video project, students can learn how to plan and organize their projects effectively, and how to communicate and execute their vision with precision and clarity.

Establishing communication and collaboration with clients and crew: This section could explain the importance of effective communication and collaboration when working on a drone video project, especially when working with clients and other crew members. It could cover topics such as setting expectations, establishing roles and responsibilities, and using project management tools and protocols. It could also discuss the importance of being professional and respectful in all interactions.

Here are some more detailed points that could be included in the “Establishing communication and collaboration with clients and crew” section of a drone videography course:

• Setting expectations: This section could explain how to set clear and realistic expectations with clients and crew members, and how to avoid misunderstandings or conflicts. It could cover topics such as defining the scope and objectives of the project, establishing timelines and deadlines, and defining the roles and responsibilities of each team member. It could also explain the importance of communicating any changes or deviations from the plan in a timely and professional manner.
• Establishing roles and responsibilities: This section could explain how to establish the roles and responsibilities of each team member, and how to ensure that everyone is aware of their tasks and duties. It could cover topics such as assigning tasks based on skills and expertise, delegating tasks effectively, and communicating expectations and feedback. It could also explain the importance of respecting the roles and responsibilities of others, and of being open to feedback and suggestions.
• Using project management tools and protocols: This section could introduce students to project management tools and protocols that can be used to organize and track the progress of a drone video project. It could cover tools such as Trello, Asana, or Slack, and explain how to use these tools to create and assign tasks, set deadlines, and communicate with the team. It could also explain how to use protocols such as the Waterfall or Agile methodologies to plan and execute the project, and how to adapt to the specific needs and preferences of the team.

By understanding how to establish communication and collaboration with clients and crew, students can learn how to work effectively and efficiently as part of a team, and how to build and maintain positive and professional relationships.

Preparing for the shoot: This section could provide students with practical tips and guidelines for preparing for a drone video shoot, including charging batteries, packing equipment, and conducting a pre-flight check. It could discuss the importance of being organized and efficient, and of having a contingency plan in case of unforeseen issues. It could also cover the importance of following safety procedures, such as checking the weather and making sure that all equipment is in good condition.

Here are some more detailed points that could be included in the “Preparing for the shoot” section of a drone videography course:

• Charging batteries: This section could explain the importance of charging the batteries of the drone and other equipment before a shoot, and how to do so safely and efficiently. It could cover topics such as using the appropriate chargers and power sources, and following the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations. It could also explain how to test the battery levels and performance, and how to pack and transport the batteries safely and securely.
• Packing equipment: This section could explain how to pack and transport the equipment for a drone video shoot, including the drone, camera, lenses, and other accessories. It could cover the importance of packing the equipment carefully and efficiently, and of using the appropriate cases and bags to protect the equipment from damage and wear. It could also explain how to pack the equipment for different types of shoots, such as outdoor or indoor, and how to adapt to the specific needs and requirements of the shoot.
• Pre-flight check: This section could explain the importance of conducting a pre-flight check before every drone flight, and how to do so effectively. It could cover topics such as checking the weather and airspace conditions, inspecting the drone and its components, and testing the controls and settings. It could also explain how to troubleshoot common issues, such as low battery levels or malfunctions, and how to follow the safety procedures and guidelines that are in place.

By understanding how to prepare for a drone video shoot, students can learn how to be organized and efficient, and how to ensure that all equipment is in good condition and ready for use. They can also learn how to follow safety procedures and guidelines, and how to have a contingency plan in case of unforeseen issues.

I. Introduction to Drone Videography

II. Drone Hardware and Software

III. Planning and Pre-production

IV. Capturing Footage

V. Post-production and Editing

VI. Advanced Techniques and Applications