What are the Terms and Definitions Used in a Drone Videography?

Drone: A small, unmanned aircraft or spacecraft.

A drone is a small, unmanned aircraft or spacecraft that can be remotely controlled or fly autonomously. Drones are used for a variety of purposes, including military operations, search and rescue missions, mapping and surveying land, and capturing images and video for media and entertainment. Drones come in a range of sizes and can be equipped with various sensors, cameras, and other payloads depending on their intended use.

Remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS): A drone and its associated elements (e.g. control station, communication links)

A remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS), also known as a drone, is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that is controlled remotely by a pilot or operator on the ground or in a control station. RPAS are used for a variety of purposes, including military operations, search and rescue missions, mapping and surveying land, and capturing images and video for media and entertainment. The use of RPAS is regulated by national aviation authorities and guidelines vary by country.

Remote pilot: A person who controls the flight of a drone

A remote pilot is a person who operates a remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS), commonly known as a drone. Remote pilots are responsible for controlling the aircraft’s movements and ensuring that it is flown safely and within the guidelines set by national aviation authorities. In order to become a remote pilot, individuals must typically undergo training and pass a knowledge test to obtain a remote pilot certificate or license.

Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): The government agency responsible for regulating aviation in a given country

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is a government body responsible for regulating and overseeing the safety of civil aviation in a particular country. This includes setting and enforcing regulations related to the operation of aircraft, licensing pilots and other aviation personnel, and investigating aviation accidents and incidents. The CAA also plays a role in the development of aviation infrastructure and may be responsible for managing the allocation of airspace and the operation of air traffic control.

Part 107: The regulations governing the operation of drones in the United States

Part 107 is a set of regulations issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States that govern the operation of small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. Part 107 applies to drones weighing less than 55 pounds (25 kg) that are used for non-recreational purposes, such as commercial, educational, or research activities. In order to operate a drone under Part 107, an individual must pass a knowledge test and obtain a remote pilot certificate from the FAA. Part 107 includes requirements related to the operation of drones, such as maintaining a visual line of sight, flying during daylight hours, and staying clear of other aircraft and people.

No-fly zones: Areas where drone flight is restricted or prohibited, such as near airports or military bases

No-fly zones are areas where drone flight is restricted or prohibited due to safety, security, or other concerns. These areas may include airports, military bases, and other sensitive locations where the presence of drones could pose a risk to people, aircraft, or infrastructure. No-fly zones are typically established and enforced by national aviation authorities or other regulatory bodies, and drone pilots are required to adhere to these restrictions when flying. Violating no-fly zone regulations can result in fines, legal action, and other consequences.

Line of sight (LOS): The requirement that the remote pilot must be able to see the drone with their own eyes at all times

Line of sight (LOS) refers to the requirement that the remote pilot of a drone must be able to see the drone with their own eyes at all times while it is in operation. This means that the remote pilot must be able to maintain visual contact with the drone and be able to clearly see its position and orientation in the airspace. LOS is a fundamental safety requirement for drone operation, as it helps to ensure that the remote pilot can react to any potential hazards or unexpected situations that may arise. Some national aviation authorities, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States, have established LOS requirements as part of their regulations for drone operation.

Unmanned aircraft operator’s certificate (UAOC): A certificate issued by the CAA that allows a person or organization to operate drones for commercial purposes

An unmanned aircraft operator’s certificate (UAOC) is a certificate issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the United Kingdom that allows a person or organization to operate drones for commercial purposes. To obtain a UAOC, an individual or organization must demonstrate that they have the knowledge, skills, and resources to safely operate drones in accordance with CAA regulations. A UAOC holder is required to adhere to specific operational requirements, such as maintaining a visual line of sight with the drone and obtaining permission to fly in certain areas. In addition to obtaining a UAOC, drone operators in the UK may also be required to hold a permission for aerial work, which allows them to fly drones for specific tasks such as aerial photography or surveying.

Unmanned aircraft operator’s certificate (UAOC): A certificate issued by the CAA that allows a person or organization to operate drones for commercial purposes

An unmanned aerial system (UAS) is a system that includes an unmanned aircraft, or drone, and the equipment and infrastructure necessary for its operation. A UAS can be remotely controlled or operate autonomously using pre-programmed flight plans. UAS are used for a wide range of purposes, including military operations, search and rescue missions, mapping and surveying land, and capturing images and video for media and entertainment. The operation of UAS is regulated by national aviation authorities, and guidelines vary by country. In order to operate a UAS commercially, individuals or organizations may be required to obtain a license or certification from the relevant regulatory body.

Quadcopter: A type of drone with four rotors

A quadcopter is a type of drone that is equipped with four rotors, which allow it to hover in place and move in any direction. Quadcopters are popular for both recreational and commercial use, due to their stability and maneuverability. Quadcopters are able to take off and land vertically, making them well-suited for use in urban and confined spaces. They are also equipped with sensors and other technology that allow them to navigate and avoid obstacles while in flight. Some quadcopters are equipped with cameras and other payloads, which allow them to be used for tasks such as aerial photography or surveying.

Hexacopter: A type of drone with six rotors

A hexacopter is a type of drone that is equipped with six rotors, which allow it to hover in place and move in any direction. Hexacopters are typically larger and more powerful than quadcopters, and are able to carry heavier payloads such as cameras or sensors. They are often used for tasks that require stability and precision, such as mapping and surveying land, capturing high-quality aerial images and video, and inspecting infrastructure. Hexacopters are also able to operate in a wider range of weather conditions, making them well-suited for use in challenging environments.

Octocopter: A type of drone with eight rotors

An octocopter is a type of drone that is equipped with eight rotors, which allow it to hover in place and move in any direction. Octocopters are typically larger and more powerful than quadcopters and hexacopters, and are able to carry heavier payloads such as cameras or sensors. They are often used for tasks that require stability and precision, such as mapping and surveying land, capturing high-quality aerial images and video, and inspecting infrastructure. Octocopters are also able to operate in a wider range of weather conditions, making them well-suited for use in challenging environments.

Propeller: A blade attached to a rotating shaft that generates lift and propels the drone through the air

A propeller is a blade attached to a rotating shaft that generates lift and propels the drone through the air. Propellers are typically located at the corners of a drone, and are driven by motors that are powered by the drone’s battery. The size and pitch of the propellers, as well as the speed at which they rotate, can affect the drone’s performance and flight characteristics. In order to fly efficiently and safely, drones must be equipped with properly sized and balanced propellers that are capable of generating sufficient lift to support the weight of the aircraft and any payloads it is carrying.

Drone Motor: A device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the propellers

A drone motor is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy in order to drive the drone’s propellers. Drone motors are typically brushless motors, which are known for their efficiency, reliability, and long lifespan. The size and power of the drone motor, as well as the size and pitch of the propellers, can affect the drone’s performance and flight characteristics. Drone motors are typically powered by the drone’s battery, and the battery’s capacity and the motor’s power consumption can impact the drone’s flight time.

Drone Battery: A device that stores electrical energy and provides power to the drone

A drone battery is a device that stores electrical energy and provides power to the drone. Drone batteries are typically lithium-ion batteries, which are known for their high energy density, low weight, and long lifespan. The capacity of the drone battery, which is typically measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), can affect the drone’s flight time. The battery’s voltage and current output must also be compatible with the drone’s motors and electronics. Drone batteries should be charged and stored properly to ensure their long-term performance and safety.

Remote controller: A handheld device used to control the flight of the drone

A remote controller, also known as a transmitter, is a handheld device used to control the flight of a drone. Remote controllers typically include a set of joystick-style controls that allow the operator to adjust the drone’s altitude, speed, and orientation, as well as buttons or switches for other functions such as starting and stopping the motors or activating camera or other payloads. Remote controllers also often include a display screen that provides the operator with information about the drone’s status and performance. Remote controllers are typically connected to the drone via a wireless link, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, and may also include features such as telemetry or video downlink.

Gimbal: A device that stabilizes the camera and allows it to move independently of the drone

A gimbal is a device that stabilizes the camera and allows it to move independently of the drone. Gimbals are typically used on drones that are equipped with cameras, in order to allow the camera to capture stable, smooth footage even when the drone is moving or encountering turbulence. Gimbals work by using motors to counter the motion of the drone, keeping the camera level and pointed in a specific direction. Some gimbals are also able to rotate the camera around multiple axes, allowing the operator to control the camera’s orientation and framing. Gimbals can help to significantly improve the quality of aerial footage, particularly in challenging environments or when the drone is moving at high speeds.

Hovering: Maintaining a stationary position in the air

Hovering refers to the ability of a drone to maintain a stationary position in the air. Drones are able to hover thanks to their propulsion system, which generates lift and allows the drone to remain suspended in the air. In order to hover effectively, a drone must be able to maintain a stable and level attitude, as well as adjust its thrust and pitch to counter any external forces that may affect its stability. The ability to hover is important for tasks such as aerial photography or inspection, as it allows the drone to remain in a fixed position and capture stable footage or images.

Yaw: Rotating the drone around its vertical axis

Yaw refers to the ability of a drone to rotate around its vertical axis. Yaw is typically controlled using the left joystick on the remote controller, and allows the operator to change the direction the drone is facing. By adjusting the yaw, the operator can make the drone turn left or right, or spin in place. Yaw is an important control input for drones, as it allows the operator to orient the drone in a specific direction or follow a specific path. Yaw is often used in conjunction with pitch and roll, which allow the drone to move forward, backward, or laterally.

Pitch: Tilting the drone forward or backward

Pitch refers to the ability of a drone to tilt forward or backward. Pitch is typically controlled using the left joystick on the remote controller, and allows the operator to change the angle of the drone’s nose relative to the horizon. By adjusting the pitch, the operator can make the drone move forward or backward, or climb or descend. Pitch is an important control input for drones, as it allows the operator to adjust the drone’s altitude and speed. Pitch is often used in conjunction with yaw and roll, which allow the drone to rotate and move laterally.

Roll: Tilting the drone left or right

Roll refers to the ability of a drone to tilt left or right. Roll is typically controlled using the right joystick on the remote controller, and allows the operator to change the angle of the drone’s wings relative to the horizon. By adjusting the roll, the operator can make the drone move left or right, or bank in a turn. Roll is an important control input for drones, as it allows the operator to adjust the drone’s lateral movement and direction. Roll is often used in conjunction with yaw and pitch, which allow the drone to rotate and change altitude.

Banking: Tilting the drone to the left or right while maintaining a constant altitude

Banking refers to the ability of a drone to tilt to the left or right while maintaining a constant altitude. Banking is typically achieved by adjusting the roll of the drone, and allows the operator to make the drone turn or follow a curved path. Banking is an important maneuver for drones, as it allows the operator to change the direction of the drone while maintaining a constant altitude. Banking is often used in conjunction with other control inputs, such as yaw and pitch, to achieve more complex flight maneuvers.

Altitude hold: Maintaining a constant altitude while flying

Altitude hold is a feature that allows a drone to maintain a constant altitude while flying. Altitude hold is typically achieved using sensors such as barometers or ultrasonic sensors, which measure the drone’s altitude and send signals to the motors to adjust the thrust and pitch as needed to maintain the desired altitude. Altitude hold can be useful for tasks such as aerial photography or inspection, as it allows the operator to focus on controlling the drone’s orientation and movement without having to constantly adjust the altitude. Some drones are equipped with altitude hold as a standard feature, while others may require an additional component or software update to enable it.

Headless mode: A mode in which the controls are relative to the position of the remote controller, rather than the orientation of the drone

Headless mode is a feature that allows a drone to be flown using controls that are relative to the position of the remote controller, rather than the orientation of the drone. In headless mode, the left joystick on the remote controller is used to control the forward and backward movement of the drone, while the right joystick is used to control the left and right movement. This can make it easier for inexperienced pilots to fly the drone, as they do not need to orient themselves with the direction the drone is facing. Headless mode is typically activated using a switch or button on the remote controller, and can be turned on or off as needed. Some drones are equipped with headless mode as a standard feature, while others may require an additional component or software update to enable it.

Cinematography: The art and technique of capturing motion pictures on film or digitally

Cinematography is the art and technique of capturing motion pictures on film or digitally. Cinematographers, also known as directors of photography, are responsible for capturing the visual elements of a film or television production, including the lighting, framing, and camera movement. Cinematographers work closely with the director and other members of the production team to create a visual style that enhances the story and communicates the desired mood and atmosphere. Cinematography requires a combination of artistic vision and technical expertise, and can involve the use of a variety of cameras, lenses, and other equipment.

Composition: The arrangement of visual elements in a frame of a drone camera

Composition refers to the arrangement of visual elements within a frame of a drone camera. Good composition can enhance the visual impact of an image or video by leading the viewer’s eye to the most important elements and creating a sense of balance and harmony. There are a number of guidelines and principles that photographers and cinematographers can use to achieve good composition, such as the rule of thirds, the golden ratio, and the use of leading lines or patterns. Composition is an important aspect of drone photography and cinematography, as it allows the operator to create visually appealing and engaging images and footage.

Shot types: Different types of shots used in drone videography, such as wide shots, close-ups, and tracking shots

Shot types refer to the different types of shots that can be used in drone videography to capture different perspectives and convey different moods and emotions. Some common shot types in drone videography include:

• Wide shots: Wide shots, also known as establishing shots, are used to show the overall context and setting of a scene. Wide shots are typically shot from a distance, and are used to establish the location and scale of the action.
• Close-ups: Close-ups are shots that focus on a specific subject or detail, and are typically shot from a closer distance. Close-ups can be used to emphasize a specific element of the scene or convey the emotions of a character.
• Tracking shots: Tracking shots are shots that follow a moving subject, and are typically shot using a gimbal or a camera mounted on a stabilizing device. Tracking shots can be used to add dynamism and movement to a scene, and can be used to follow a subject as they move through a location.
• Aerial shots: Aerial shots are shots that are captured from a high altitude, and are typically shot using a drone. Aerial shots can be used to show the overall layout and layout of a location, and can be used to capture a sense of scale and perspective.

Motion control: The use of specialized equipment to achieve precise, repeatable movements of the camera

Motion control is the use of specialized equipment to achieve precise, repeatable movements of the camera. Motion control equipment can be used to capture complex and highly precise camera movements, such as panning, tilting, or zooming, and can be programmed to repeat these movements exactly or to follow a specific path. Motion control equipment is often used in the film and television industry to capture shots that would be difficult or impossible to achieve manually, such as timelapse sequences or moving camera effects. Motion control equipment can include devices such as motion control rigs, dollies, or cranes, as well as software and other tools to program and control the movement of the camera.

Color grading: The process of adjusting the colors and tones in a video to achieve a desired look

Color grading is the process of adjusting the colors and tones in a video to achieve a desired look. Color grading is typically performed using specialized software, and can involve adjusting the hue, saturation, and luminance of specific colors or color ranges in the video. Color grading is an important part of the post-production process, as it allows filmmakers and video producers to fine-tune the visual aesthetic of their work and create a cohesive look and feel. Color grading can be used to enhance the mood and atmosphere of a video, and can be used to match the colors of different shots or to create a specific visual style.

Audio capture: The process of recording sound in sync with the video

Audio capture is the process of recording sound in sync with the video. Audio capture is an important aspect of drone videography, as it allows the operator to capture the sounds of the environment and add depth and realism to the footage. Audio capture can be achieved using a variety of methods, such as using a built-in microphone on the drone or camera, using an external microphone that is mounted on the drone or worn by the operator, or using a separate audio recording device that is synced with the video in post-production. Proper audio capture can be essential for creating high-quality video, as poor audio quality can significantly impact the overall viewing experience.

Non-linear editor (NLE): A software program used to edit video and audio files

A non-linear editor (NLE) is a software program used to edit video and audio files. NLEs allow users to import, arrange, and manipulate video and audio clips, and to add transitions, effects, and other elements to create a finished video. NLEs typically offer a wide range of features and tools, such as the ability to trim and splice clips, adjust the color and audio levels, add titles and graphics, and export the final video in a variety of formats. NLEs are commonly used in the film and television industry, as well as by amateur videographers and other media professionals. Some popular NLEs include Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, and Avid Media Composer.

Timeline: A graphical representation of the sequence of clips in a video project

A timeline is a graphical representation of the sequence of clips in a video project. Timelines are typically used in non-linear editing (NLE) software, and allow users to arrange and edit video and audio clips in a specific order. Timelines typically include a series of tracks, each of which can hold one or more clips. Users can add, delete, and rearrange clips on the timeline, as well as adjust their length and position. Timelines also often include a ruler that displays the length of the video in a specific unit of time, such as seconds or frames, and a playhead that indicates the current position in the video. Timelines are an essential tool for video editing, as they allow users to see the overall structure and flow of the video and make precise edits.

Transitions: Effects that are used to connect two shots or scenes

Transitions are effects that are used to connect two shots or scenes in a video. Transitions can be used to smooth the transition between two shots, or to create a specific visual effect. Transitions can be simple, such as a fade to black or a crossfade, or more complex, such as a wipe or a slide. Transitions can be added to a video using non-linear editing (NLE) software, and are typically placed on the timeline between the two shots or scenes that they are intended to connect. Transitions can help to create a cohesive and seamless flow in a video, and can be used to convey a sense of time passing or to create a sense of momentum or energy.

Titles: Text overlays used to introduce or identify elements in a video

Keyframes: Points in a video where specific changes are made, such as a change in the position of an object

Keyframes are points in a video where specific changes are made, such as a change in the position of an object. Keyframes are typically used in non-linear editing (NLE) software to control the animation or movement of an element in a video. When a keyframe is set, the software automatically creates a transition between the keyframe and the previous or subsequent keyframe, using an algorithm to calculate the intermediate frames. Keyframes can be used to create a variety of effects, such as panning, zooming, or rotational movement, and can be adjusted to change the speed and smoothness of the transition. Keyframes are an important tool for creating dynamic and visually appealing video content.

Rendering: The process of generating a final video file from the edited project

Rendering is the process of generating a final video file from the edited project. Rendering typically involves compiling all of the video and audio elements of a project, including the raw footage, transitions, effects, and titles, and combining them into a single file that can be viewed or shared. Rendering can be a resource-intensive process, as it requires the computer to process and manipulate large amounts of data. Depending on the complexity and length of the project, rendering can take a significant amount of time to complete. Once the rendering process is complete, the final video file can be exported in a variety of formats, such as MP4, AVI, or MOV, and can be shared or viewed on a variety of devices.

Importance of Drone Videography 101 Course