A drone operator is present in almost every production nowadays, but how much does it really cost?
The cost of aerial cinematography can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the location, duration of the shoot, equipment required, and the complexity of the shots you want to capture. Here are some cost considerations:
1. Equipment Rental: Aerial cinematography requires specialized equipment such as drones or helicopters, cameras, stabilizers, and other accessories. Rental costs for drones can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per day, depending on the type of drone and its capabilities. Helicopter rentals are generally more expensive, often costing thousands of dollars per hour.
2. Pilot and Crew: If you're using a drone, you want to make sure you hire a licensed drone pilot who can operate the equipment safely and legally. Drone pilots for commercial operations carry an FAA Part 107 licence. For helicopter shoots, you'll require a certified pilot and potentially a camera operator as well. The cost of hiring these professionals can vary, but it's typically several hundred to a few thousand dollars per day, depending on their expertise and the complexity of the shoot. You will also want to check that they are insured.
The size and expertise of the crew required for the shoot can influence the cost. Aerial cinematography typically involves a pilot, a camera operator, and potentially a director or coordinator.
3. Location and Permits: If you plan to shoot in specific locations or airspace, you might need to obtain permits or pay location fees. The costs associated with permits and location fees vary widely depending on the location and local regulations. Some areas may require additional insurance coverage, which can add to the overall cost.
4. Post-production: After the shoot, there will be costs associated with editing and post-production. This includes video editing, color grading, special effects, and any necessary sound design. The complexity of the project and the skills of the post-production team will influence the cost.
Given these factors, it's challenging to provide an exact cost without specific details about your project. We recommended you reach out to us to get a professional aerial cinematography services detailed quotes based on your specific requirements.
Below is a range of prices for different operations with different drone platforms.
- Drone photography: single operator DJI Mavic Pro platform $800 to $1000
- Drone videography: double operator DJI Inspire 3 platform starting at $2,500 full day rate