Interview Questions for Drone Operation and Aerial Cinematography

Drone classes are categorized based on weight and intended use, impacting regulations. The most common categorization is by weight, though specific regulations vary by country. For example, in many jurisdictions, you might see distinctions between:

• Nano drones: Generally, these are very small and lightweight, often under 250 grams. Regulations for these are often less stringent, but registration might still be required. Think of a tiny quadcopter used for hobbyist purposes.
• Micro drones: Slightly larger than nano drones, but still relatively small and lightweight, possibly in the 250-500 gram range. These usually fall under similar regulations as nano drones, although commercial use might require additional permits.
• Small drones: Weighing more than 500 grams, these require more stringent registration and operational guidelines. Commercial use frequently necessitates pilot certification and adherence to strict operational standards, particularly concerning airspace limitations and safety protocols.
• Large drones: These are significantly larger and heavier, often used for specific tasks like cargo delivery or infrastructure inspections. They are subject to the strictest regulations and require extensive pilot certification, insurance, and operational approvals.

Regulations also vary significantly based on the intended use. Commercial operations, for instance, typically necessitate more licenses, insurance, and stringent safety protocols than recreational flying. Always consult your local aviation authority for the latest and most accurate regulations in your area. Failure to adhere to these can lead to hefty fines or legal repercussions.

Pre-flight checks are crucial for safe drone operation. Think of it like a pilot’s pre-flight checklist for an airplane – meticulous preparation is key. My process involves these steps:

1. Visual Inspection: A thorough examination of the drone’s physical condition, checking for any damage to the propellers, arms, camera, or body. I look for cracks, loose screws, or anything out of the ordinary.
2. Battery Check: Verify the battery level and health. Low battery can lead to unexpected power loss mid-flight. I always use fully charged, well-maintained batteries.
3. GPS Signal Acquisition: Ensure a strong GPS signal is acquired before takeoff. This is essential for accurate positioning and autonomous flight modes.
4. Gimbal Calibration: If the drone has a stabilized gimbal, I calibrate it to ensure smooth camera movements.
5. Radio Control Check: Test the responsiveness of the radio controller and its connection to the drone. This ensures smooth and reliable control during the flight.
6. Software Updates: Before each flight, I make sure the drone’s firmware is up-to-date. This ensures optimal performance and safety features are enabled.
7. Flight Plan Review: If I have a pre-planned flight path, I review it meticulously, taking into account weather conditions, obstacles, and airspace restrictions.
8. Emergency Procedures Review: I always refresh my memory on emergency procedures in case of unexpected events. This mental rehearsal is vital for a swift response in critical situations.

These steps are non-negotiable for me. Skipping even one can compromise safety and potentially lead to accidents or equipment damage.

My experience spans various flight controllers, from simpler, hobbyist-grade systems to sophisticated, professional controllers. I’ve worked extensively with systems like DJI’s A3 and Matrice series flight controllers, known for their stability and advanced features like obstacle avoidance. I’ve also used Pixhawk-based controllers, which offer greater flexibility and open-source customization, ideal for more complex projects and autonomous flight development. The choice of flight controller often depends on the specific project requirements. For example, the DJI A3 is ideal for reliable cinematography and has advanced features which are critical for smooth, professional shots; however, a Pixhawk offers more programming flexibility, crucial when needing to build custom autonomous flight scripts.

Each controller has its unique strengths and weaknesses. DJI controllers are known for their user-friendly interface and reliability, while Pixhawk controllers provide greater control and customizability at the expense of a steeper learning curve. Understanding these nuances allows me to choose the right tool for the job, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

Safe drone operation near obstacles and other aircraft requires a multi-layered approach. It’s not just about technical capabilities but also about sound judgment and risk assessment. My strategies include:

• Visual Observation: Maintaining constant visual contact with the drone throughout the flight is paramount. This allows for immediate reaction to unforeseen events.
• Obstacle Avoidance Technology: Utilizing drones equipped with obstacle avoidance systems is critical. These systems use sensors to detect and avoid obstacles autonomously, enhancing safety significantly. This is especially important in complex environments with multiple obstacles.
• Airspace Awareness: I always consult relevant airspace maps and apps (like AirMap or B4UFLY) before each flight to ensure compliance and awareness of restricted areas and other air traffic. This helps prevent collisions and other hazardous situations.
• Flight Planning Software: Utilizing flight planning software allows for pre-flight visualization of the flight path and identification of potential hazards. This minimizes the chances of encountering obstacles unexpectedly.
• Maintaining Safe Distances: Always maintain a safe distance from other aircraft, people, and structures. The required distance often depends on local regulations and the type of operation.
• Weather Monitoring: Staying up-to-date on current weather conditions is paramount. Strong winds, rain, or fog can significantly affect drone stability and control, rendering flight unsafe.

A cautious approach and adherence to these strategies drastically reduce the risk of accidents. Safety is never compromised.

My emergency procedures are ingrained through extensive training and practice. In the event of a drone malfunction, my response is immediate and prioritized to minimize damage and risk. My steps include:

1. Assess the Situation: Quickly assess the nature of the malfunction. Is it a loss of control, a system failure, or a power issue?
2. Initiate Failsafe Mechanisms: If the drone has failsafe mechanisms (like Return-to-Home), I initiate them immediately to ensure a safe landing.
3. Attempt Manual Control: If failsafes aren’t working, I attempt to regain control manually. This might involve troubleshooting onboard systems if possible.
4. Initiate Emergency Landing Procedures: If control can’t be regained, I prioritize a safe emergency landing in a clear, unpopulated area.
5. Post-Incident Assessment: After the incident, I conduct a thorough assessment of the drone and data to identify the cause of the malfunction and prevent future occurrences. Data logging is crucial for this analysis.
6. Report to Authorities: Depending on the severity of the incident and local regulations, I report the incident to the relevant aviation authorities.

Regular practice of these procedures is essential to ensure a swift and effective response during an emergency.

Flying drones commercially involves a number of legal requirements that vary by country and region. Generally, they include:

• Registration: Registering your drone with the relevant aviation authority. The requirements for registration often depend on the drone’s weight and classification.
• Pilot Certification: Obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate (or equivalent) demonstrating competency and knowledge of drone operation and regulations.
• Insurance: Having adequate liability insurance to cover potential damages or injuries caused during drone operations.
• Operational Permits or Waivers: Obtaining permits or waivers for specific operations, particularly if flying in restricted airspace or conducting sensitive operations.
• Compliance with Airspace Regulations: Strictly adhering to all airspace restrictions and regulations. This includes maintaining safe distances from airports, restricted zones, and other aircraft.
• Data Privacy Considerations: If the drone is collecting data, adhering to all relevant data privacy laws and regulations.
• Safety Protocols: Adhering to strict safety procedures to minimize risks and ensure safe operation.

Ignoring these requirements can lead to severe penalties, including fines and legal action. It’s crucial to be fully compliant with all relevant laws and regulations before engaging in commercial drone operations.

Airspace restrictions are vital for maintaining safety and order in the air. Understanding these is crucial for responsible drone operation. Airspace is often categorized into different classes, each with varying levels of access and restrictions. For example, you may have:

• Controlled Airspace: Areas around airports and other critical infrastructure that require special permission and adherence to strict procedures for entry, typically needing communication with Air Traffic Control.
• Restricted Airspace: Areas where flight is restricted for reasons like national security, or sensitive installations (e.g., military bases). Unauthorized entry is strictly forbidden.
• Prohibited Airspace: Areas where flight is entirely prohibited, often due to very high-risk conditions such as national security or extremely densely populated areas.
• Special Use Airspace: Areas designated for specific activities, such as military training or other government activities. Drone entry may be restricted or require special authorization.

Ignoring these restrictions can lead to collisions, fines, or even criminal charges. Always check airspace maps and consult the relevant aviation authority before flying a drone to ensure you are operating legally and safely.

My experience spans a wide range of drone camera systems, from entry-level models like the DJI Mavic series to professional cinema drones such as the Inspire 2 and Freefly Alta X. I’ve worked extensively with various camera payloads, including the Zenmuse X5S, X7, and even specialized thermal and LiDAR cameras. Each system presents unique challenges and opportunities. For instance, the Mavic’s portability is excellent for quick shots and tight spaces, while the Inspire 2 offers superior stability and payload capacity for high-end cinematic work. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each system – including sensor size, dynamic range, and image stabilization capabilities – is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic and quality.

I’ve also gained experience with integrating third-party accessories like gimbals and ND filters, further customizing the camera system to meet specific shooting requirements. For example, using a high-quality ND filter allows for a wider aperture and shallower depth of field, even in bright sunlight, enhancing the cinematic look.

Planning a drone flight for optimal shot composition involves a meticulous process. It starts with a thorough pre-flight site survey, ideally including scouting the location in person. This allows me to identify key landmarks, potential obstacles, and optimal flight paths for achieving the desired shots. I use various tools to aid this process; planning software like Litchi allows pre-programming complex flight paths and camera movements. I also consider the golden hour (sunrise and sunset) for optimal lighting conditions.

Next, I storyboard the entire shoot, visualizing each shot’s composition, angle, and movement. This storyboard serves as a roadmap during the flight, ensuring that I capture every intended shot efficiently. Compositional elements like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing are carefully considered. I often employ techniques like establishing shots, close-ups, and dynamic tracking shots to create visually engaging narratives.

Finally, I always maintain a safety buffer and ensure I adhere to all relevant regulations and airspace restrictions. For example, I’ll always check for No-Fly Zones and obtain necessary permits before commencing any flight.

My post-processing workflow for aerial footage typically involves color grading, stabilization, and minor adjustments. I primarily use Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve for editing and color correction. Color grading is crucial to establish a consistent look and feel, often mimicking film stocks or creating a unique stylistic choice. For example, I might use a LUT (Look Up Table) to achieve a specific cinematic look quickly.

Stabilization is essential, as even the slightest camera shake can be amplified in aerial shots. I use various stabilization tools within the editing software, and sometimes resort to more advanced techniques like Warp Stabilizer in After Effects for more complex stabilization needs.

Beyond these core steps, I might perform minor noise reduction, sharpen the footage subtly, and adjust contrast and exposure for optimal image quality. Always prioritizing a natural and realistic look, avoiding over-processing that can appear artificial.

Weather is a paramount concern in drone operation. I meticulously check weather forecasts before and during every flight. Strong winds, rain, and fog are significant safety hazards. Wind speeds exceeding the drone’s specifications are a strict no-go. Rain can damage the electronics, and fog significantly reduces visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.

For instance, if there’s a slight chance of rain, I’ll have a backup plan, either rescheduling the flight or finding a covered location. I always have contingency plans in place. I’ll utilize features like Return-to-Home (RTH) and monitor battery levels closely to ensure a safe landing in case of sudden weather changes. Safety is always the top priority, and I’d rather reschedule a shoot than risk damage or injury.

Battery management is critical for safe and efficient drone operation. I meticulously track battery cycles, storage conditions, and flight times. Each battery has a limited number of charge cycles, and overcharging or discharging can significantly reduce its lifespan. I always use the manufacturer’s recommended charger and store batteries in a cool, dry place.

Flight time calculations are crucial. I always factor in wind conditions, payload weight, and camera settings. Higher wind resistance or heavier payloads reduce flight time. I use a combination of the drone’s built-in flight time estimate and my own experience to plan for ample battery life. I always carry extra batteries and plan for sufficient charging time to avoid interruptions during the shoot. Always leaving a safety margin to ensure a safe return.

My experience encompasses a variety of drone payloads beyond standard cameras. I’ve worked with thermal cameras for infra-red imagery, used in applications like building inspections or agricultural monitoring. LiDAR sensors have been used for creating highly accurate 3D models of terrain and structures. I’ve also worked with specialized gimbals providing greater stability and precision.

Each payload requires a different approach to operation and post-processing. For example, thermal data needs specialized software for analysis and interpretation, while LiDAR data requires powerful computers and specific software for point cloud processing and 3D modeling. Understanding the unique characteristics and applications of each payload is crucial for successfully executing the mission.

Safety and data security are paramount. I always operate within the legal framework, adhering to all relevant regulations and obtaining necessary permits. This includes maintaining appropriate distances from people and structures and staying clear of restricted airspace. I always visually inspect the drone before each flight for any potential damage or issues.

Data security involves keeping footage encrypted and stored securely. I use encrypted hard drives and cloud storage services with strong passwords and access controls. Data backups are a crucial part of my workflow, ensuring that even if a drive fails, the data remains safe. I am meticulous about following best practices to ensure my work is both safe and protected.

Drone maintenance is crucial for safe and reliable operation. It’s a multi-faceted process encompassing pre-flight checks, regular cleaning, and addressing potential repairs. Think of it like servicing a car – regular upkeep prevents major issues.

• Pre-flight Checks: This involves visually inspecting the drone for any physical damage, ensuring propellers are securely fastened, checking battery levels and health, and verifying the functionality of all sensors and cameras. I always run a pre-flight calibration to ensure accuracy.
• Cleaning: Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the drone’s body and propellers, affecting performance. Regular cleaning with a soft brush and compressed air is essential. For stubborn grime, I use a specialized drone cleaning solution.
• Repair and Maintenance: This can range from simple tasks like replacing damaged propellers to more complex repairs involving electronic components. I have experience in diagnosing and fixing issues with motors, flight controllers, and GPS modules. I always use manufacturer-approved parts to maintain warranty and safety.
• Firmware Updates: Keeping the drone’s firmware updated is vital. These updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features, contributing to enhanced stability and safety.

For example, during a recent shoot, I noticed slight propeller imbalance. A quick re-calibration and adjustment solved the issue, preventing potential problems during flight.

Flight planning and mission control are critical aspects of safe and efficient drone operations. I primarily use Litchi and DJI GS Pro. These software packages allow for precise flight path planning, waypoint setting, and real-time monitoring of flight data.

• Litchi: This software offers advanced features like automated missions, obstacle avoidance, and the ability to create complex flight paths with ease. I often use its waypoint functionality to capture cinematic shots along predetermined routes.
• DJI GS Pro: This is DJI’s professional ground station software, perfectly integrated with their drones. Its strengths lie in ease of use and streamlined control over camera settings. I appreciate its live video feed and real-time telemetry data, which provides an excellent overview of the flight parameters.

For instance, when filming a time-lapse of a cityscape at sunset, I used Litchi to program a smooth, ascending flight path, ensuring the camera captured stunning panoramic views as the sun dipped below the horizon. Real-time monitoring allowed for adjustments if needed.

High-quality, stable aerial footage is the ultimate goal. Achieving this relies on a combination of factors, from pre-flight preparation to post-production editing. It’s like a recipe, each ingredient is crucial for the final product.

• Drone Selection: Choosing the right drone with a high-quality camera sensor and image stabilization is essential. The drone’s gimbal (the stabilizing mechanism for the camera) plays a critical role in ensuring smooth footage.
• Flight Technique: Smooth and controlled flight maneuvers are paramount. Avoiding sudden movements and maintaining consistent speed minimizes shake and jitter.
• Environmental Conditions: Wind can significantly impact footage stability. I always check weather forecasts before a shoot and select locations that offer protection from strong winds.
• Post-Production: Even with careful planning, minor stabilization issues may arise. Post-production software like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve provides tools for further stabilization and color correction to refine the final product. I often employ digital stabilization techniques to further enhance smoothness.

For instance, when filming a fast-paced action scene, I used a drone with a high frame rate camera and a three-axis gimbal to capture crisp, smooth footage, even during rapid movements. Post-production enhanced the already stable images.

My experience encompasses a wide array of aerial shots, each requiring a specific flight technique and camera setting. Think of it like a filmmaker’s toolbox, each tool serves a unique purpose.

• Tracking Shots: These involve following a subject smoothly, either horizontally or vertically. I achieve this by meticulously planning the flight path and using the drone’s intelligent flight modes or manual control to maintain a steady distance and framing.
• Orbiting Shots: These showcase a subject from a circular perspective. Using waypoint settings in my flight planning software enables precise, controlled orbiting maneuvers around the subject, creating a dynamic visual effect.
• Push-in/Pull-out Shots: These involve gradually moving the camera closer to or further away from the subject. This simple yet effective technique creates dramatic impact and effectively emphasizes the scale of the scene.
• Aerial Reveal Shots: These shots unveil a hidden element or landscape in an impressive manner. I often use these to dramatically reveal the subject, allowing the audience to appreciate the full scale and scope.

During a recent commercial shoot, I combined orbiting and tracking shots to follow a vehicle along a winding mountain road, creating a visually dynamic and engaging sequence. This demanded precise control and careful planning to capture the desired shots smoothly.

Lighting is crucial in aerial cinematography. It directly affects the mood, atmosphere, and overall quality of the footage. Just like a painter choosing the right colors, I consider the lighting crucial to success.

• Golden Hour: I often leverage the soft, warm light of the golden hour (sunrise and sunset) for aesthetically pleasing footage. The low angle of the sun creates long shadows and beautiful color tones.
• Overcast Days: These can provide even, diffused lighting, minimizing harsh shadows. I find them suitable for shooting in locations with highly contrasting light and dark areas.
• Night Filming: This requires specialized equipment, such as powerful lights or drones with low-light capabilities. I’ve used this technique to capture breathtaking shots of cityscapes at night, the light from the buildings and streets creating stunning visuals.
• ND Filters: Neutral density (ND) filters help to control the amount of light entering the camera, allowing for wider apertures even in bright conditions. This helps to achieve a shallow depth of field and create a cinematic look.

For a recent real estate video, I scheduled the shoot during the golden hour to capture the house bathed in warm, inviting light. This resulted in incredibly appealing footage, highlighting the property’s key features.

Unexpected issues during a flight are inevitable. Preparation and quick thinking are essential to mitigate their impact. I always have a plan B, and often a plan C!

• Battery Failure: I always carry extra fully charged batteries. If a battery fails mid-flight, I immediately initiate a safe return-to-home (RTH) procedure. The drone’s software assists with this.
• GPS Signal Loss: Loss of GPS signal can be due to environmental factors. I always try to maintain visual line-of-sight and, if possible, utilize alternative positioning systems, like vision positioning, when possible.
• Wind Gusts: Strong wind gusts can destabilize the drone. In these situations, I prioritize safety by bringing the drone down and resuming the shoot once the conditions improve. The safety of the aircraft and those below always come first.
• Malfunction: If a critical component malfunctions, I prioritize a safe landing, conducting a post-flight analysis to determine the cause of the failure and preventing recurrence.

During a recent shoot, a sudden wind gust threatened to knock the drone off course. I immediately switched to manual control and used the RTH feature to bring it back to safety. This situation emphasized the value of situational awareness and quick decision-making.

Drone propellers are critical components. Different types are designed for various applications and performance requirements. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation.

• Standard Propellers: These are generally used for everyday flight and provide a balance of performance and efficiency. They are a common choice for general photography and videography.
• Low-Noise Propellers: Designed to minimize sound during operation, these are often preferred for shoots where noise reduction is critical, like filming in quiet environments or near wildlife.
• High-Performance Propellers: These propellers are designed for enhanced thrust and maneuverability. These are helpful in high-speed flights, but may also be slightly noisier.
• Folding Propellers: These fold for easy portability and storage. I find them useful for situations requiring compact transportation.

For instance, when shooting near wildlife, I always opt for low-noise propellers to minimize disturbances. For fast-paced action sequences, I use high-performance propellers to maintain agility and speed while still ensuring stability.

Collaboration on a film set, especially with aerial cinematography, relies heavily on clear communication and pre-planning. Before the shoot, I meticulously review the shot list with the director of photography (DP), first assistant camera (1AC), and director to ensure we’re all on the same page regarding shot composition, angles, and desired movement. This often involves reviewing storyboards and discussing potential challenges. During the shoot, constant communication with the DP via radio is crucial. They guide me on precise framing, adjusting the drone’s position and camera movements in real-time. The 1AC ensures focus is correct and provides feedback on the image quality on the monitor. Open communication avoids misinterpretations and ensures we capture exactly what’s envisioned.

For instance, during a recent shoot, we needed a dynamic tracking shot following a car chase. Constant communication between myself, the DP, and the car’s driver ensured the drone maintained a safe distance while capturing a smooth, compelling shot, perfectly matching the on-ground action.

My experience spans various drone communication systems, from the ubiquitous 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequencies used in most consumer-grade drones to more robust and reliable systems like O3 and O5. I understand the limitations and advantages of each. 2.4 GHz offers wider range but is susceptible to interference; 5.8 GHz offers better performance in crowded RF environments but shorter range. I’ve also worked with long-range systems using specialized antennas and repeaters for operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), always ensuring compliance with all regulations. The choice of system heavily depends on the environment and the complexity of the operation. For example, in urban areas with high signal interference, a 5.8 GHz system with robust error correction is preferred, while for open areas, a 2.4 GHz system with extended-range antennas might be sufficient.

Ethical and responsible drone operation is paramount. It starts with thorough pre-flight checks to ensure the drone is in optimal working condition and adhering to all relevant safety regulations (like Part 107). Before every flight, I assess the airspace, identify potential hazards, and establish clear communication channels. I always maintain a safe distance from people and property, respecting privacy concerns. I never fly over crowds or in restricted airspace without the necessary permissions. This includes being aware of and avoiding interference with emergency services. It’s about operating with a high level of professionalism and conscientiousness to avoid any risks to public safety and the environment. Furthermore, I am acutely aware of data privacy, ensuring compliance with data protection laws concerning any images or video captured.

Part 107, in the United States, is the FAA’s regulation for small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). My understanding encompasses all aspects, including:

• Knowledge Test: I passed the FAA’s aeronautical knowledge test, demonstrating understanding of airspace regulations, weather patterns, and safe operating procedures.
• Remote Pilot Certificate: I hold a valid Remote Pilot Certificate, allowing me to legally operate drones for commercial purposes.
• Pre-flight Checks: I always perform thorough pre-flight inspections to ensure airworthiness and operational safety, including weather checks and airspace analysis.
• Airspace Restrictions: I am knowledgeable about different airspace classes and their limitations, including restricted, prohibited, and warning areas. I use resources like B4UFly and FAA DroneZone to ensure safe and legal flight operations.
• Operational Limitations: I strictly adhere to the weight, speed, and operational distance limitations of my drone in accordance with Part 107 guidelines.
• Third Party Liability Insurance: I hold adequate liability insurance to cover potential damages or injuries caused during operations.

Understanding and adhering to Part 107 ensures safety and legality, protecting both the public and my operations.

Creating compelling aerial content involves a multifaceted approach. It starts with understanding the story and conveying it visually. I use cinematic techniques such as:

• Dynamic Movement: Smooth tracking shots, aerial reveals, and creative camera angles are essential to engage viewers. Using features such as waypoint flight planning and gimbal control allows for pre-programmed, dynamic shots.
• Composition and Framing: The rule of thirds, leading lines, and creating a sense of depth and scale are critical for visually pleasing compositions. Knowing when to use wide shots for establishing shots and tighter shots for detail is crucial.
• Lighting and Time of Day: The golden hour (sunrise and sunset) provides the most visually appealing light. I plan shoots to utilize this optimal lighting for enhanced visual impact.
• Post-Production: Color grading, editing, and music selection are equally important for shaping the mood and telling the story effectively. I collaborate closely with post-production teams to refine the final product.

For example, when filming a real estate property, I’d use a combination of wide shots to showcase the surrounding landscape, followed by tracking shots revealing the property’s features and finally, close-up shots highlighting its architectural details.

Client communication is key. From the initial consultation, I take the time to understand their vision, answer their questions thoroughly, and manage their expectations realistically. This includes providing detailed proposals with clear pricing, timelines, and deliverables. During the project, I maintain regular communication, providing updates on progress and addressing any concerns promptly. I also use collaborative platforms to share previews and gather feedback. Post-production, I ensure the final product meets their expectations, providing multiple revision opportunities within the agreed-upon scope.

For example, If a client is unsure about the best camera angles for their product showcase, I’ll offer creative suggestions backed by my expertise and show them examples of similar projects to help them visualize the end result. Transparent communication ensures a smooth process and builds strong client relationships.

One challenging operation involved capturing aerial footage of a coastal cliff during a storm. High winds and unpredictable gusts posed significant risks to the drone and its operator. To overcome these challenges, I:

• Thoroughly assessed the weather conditions: I carefully monitored weather reports and used wind speed and direction apps to identify short windows of calmer weather.
• Used a more robust drone: I chose a drone specifically designed for high wind conditions, with stronger motors and better stability. It was equipped with advanced obstacle avoidance systems.
• Employed a spotter: A dedicated spotter aided in monitoring the drone and providing real-time feedback on wind conditions and potential hazards.
• Executed short bursts of flight: Instead of long continuous shots, I performed several short flights to minimise the duration of exposure to extreme conditions.
• Prioritized safety: If conditions worsened, I aborted the operation immediately, prioritizing safety over obtaining footage.

Through careful planning, the use of appropriate equipment, and a focus on safety, we successfully obtained the necessary footage while mitigating all risks. The final footage showcased the dramatic impact of the storm while highlighting the strength and resilience of the coastline.