How Drones Have Revolutionized TV and Movie Production

David Chase, the creator of The Sopranos, shared a fascinating insight into the challenges of filming the episode 'The Pines.' The director, Steve Buscemi, wanted a challenging overhead shot of Tony Soprano floating on a raft in his pool, saying, 'this is already the most expensive episode we’ve ever shot and to get a 10-second overhead... well, that was just not in the budget.' This anecdote highlights a significant shift in the industry, driven by the advent of drones.

The Evolution in Aerial Film Techniques

Traditionally, aerial shots have been a luxury reserved for large-scale productions with significant budgets. However, the introduction of drones has dramatically altered this scenario. While previously, camera stabilisation systems like the Ronin were the go-to tools, now, producers and directors often mistake a drone as a helicopter and a gyro-stabilised rig as a steadicam. This misunderstanding is problematic, as these tools serve completely different purposes and are intended to achieve different visual effects.

The affordability of drones has made these devices accessible to low-budget productions, leading to a ubiquitous presence of aerial shots. However, this trend is not without its challenges. A production aiming for a drone shot to enhance its value often overlooks the fact that aerial shots should complement the story rather than attract unnecessary attention. In the world of television, the proliferation of drone shots is particularly evident. BBC reports, for instance, often incorporate maximum drone shots, even within buildings and tunnels, albeit at the expense of the overall narrative.

Regulatory and Safety Concerns

The excessive use of drones has not only affected the creative process but has also raised serious concerns for authorities in charge of flying safety. The increasing number of accidents on set has led to heightened safety regulations, including stringent insurance costs for film productions. This has created additional financial burdens for producers, who are then tempted to take shortcuts.

One of the most concerning aspects is the employment of inexperienced individuals with drones, particularly among unscrupulous producers. These producers often employ children to shoot low-budget scenes, lacking the necessary skills and safety precautions. This practice not only poses significant risks to the actors and the structures involved but undermines the integrity of the film industry.

The Impact on Professional Standards

The reliance on drones has inevitably altered the perception of what constitutes a good aerial shot. Gyro-stabilised shots cannot be equated to a well-executed steadicam move. The ease of drone operation has led to an oversaturation of drone footage in productions, ultimately diluting the quality and impact of these shots. This shift has led to a new standard where aerial shots are expected to be prevalent, regardless of their fit with the story or the overall production value.

In conclusion, drones have undoubtedly transformed TV and movie production. While they offer unprecedented opportunities for creative expression, they also bring challenges that need to be addressed. Balancing the use of technology with narrative storytelling is crucial for maintaining the artistic integrity of productions while ensuring safety and quality.