When you’re trying to get the right footage for your film production, you want to consider the different options you have available. Drone shots and FPV can both give you great footage for your video, but each has its own advantages and disadvantages. It can be difficult to choose between the two, especially if you don’t yet know the differences between them.
Overhead shots are great for any kind of film production! They work well for establishing setting in a documentary or building suspense in a thriller. It’s a great way to really add a new element to any kind of film, even short-form films and brand films. It’s footage that can be reused, over and over again!
At their core, drone shots and FPV are similar in that they both give you the ability to get great aerial footage. But what are their differences? Is one actually better than the other? How can I make the right decision on which one to utilize for my next film production?
In this blog post, we’re going to go through the pros and cons of both, and give you C&I Studios’ personal opinion on the matter with which we prefer to work with.
Let’s take a look at each option:
Drone Shots
Drone shots have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. They offer a unique perspective that can really add a lot to a video or film. Drone shots are a popular choice for many filmmakers, as they allow you to capture stunning visuals from above. With drone technology quickly advancing, drone shots can now be done with impressive levels of precision and stability. However, there are also some potential downsides to drone shots that should be considered.
Drones allow for freedom from cables and cords. They let you get some great shots that would otherwise be too expensive to recreate. Some can be relatively affordable and easy to use, which makes them a great option for productions, but others might cost a pretty penny. It all depends on what you’re looking for and what you can afford.
However, drones can also be noisy and intrusive. If you’re shooting in a crowded area, you may need to get special permission to use a drone.
Additionally, drone shots are not allowed in all areas. If you’re shooting in a sensitive area or near an airport, you may not be able to use a drone.
All in all, drone shots can be a great option for many productions. They offer a lot of advantages, but there are also some potential downsides to consider.
FPV
FPV, or First Person View, is another option that can give you great footage for your video or film. FPV cameras are typically mounted on the drone, which gives you a view from the drone’s perspective.
This can be a great way to get some really cool shots, but it does have some potential drawbacks. First, FPV cameras can be expensive. Additionally, you may not always get the best footage with an FPV camera. The drone’s movements can sometimes be jerky, and the footage may not be as smooth as you would like.
Additionally, FPV can be difficult to use if you’re not familiar with it. It will take some practice to get the hang of flying the drone and getting good footage.
The pros of FPV are similar to drone shots. With FPV, you can capture stunning aerial footage that only a drone can provide. FPV cameras are also typically very small and lightweight. Which makes them ideal for drone use, as they won’t add much weight or drag to the drone.
However, one big drawback of FPV is that it often requires special permission from the drone operator. This is because FPV gives you a live feed of what the drone is seeing, and the drone operator needs to be able to see that feed in order to fly the drone safely.
Additionally, FPV can be more difficult to shoot than drone shots. This is because you need to be able to see the live feed in order to fly the drone, which can be difficult if you’re not familiar with it.
All in all, FPV is a great option for many productions. It offers a lot of advantages, but there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.
So, which is better? Drone shots or FPV?
It really depends on your needs and what you’re looking for in a shot. If you’re looking for something unique and different, FPV shots may be the way to go. However, if you’re looking for smooth, steady footage, drone may be a better option. It’s all about what the individual production needs and what the desired look is.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which is best for your production. There is no right or wrong answer overall, but there is when it comes to your own production. So, choose wisely and keep these pros and cons in mind as you make your decision!
What is our opinion on the subject?
Here at C&I Studios we appreciate both options. However, we do tend to favor one over the other: FPV can give you some great shots, but we generally prefer drone shots. They offer a wider range of options and tend to be less expensive. However, it ultimately comes down to what you’re looking for in a shot and what will work best for your production.
Knowing what your video production needs are will help you narrow down which option is the best for your situation. At the end of the day, drone shots or FPV can both give you great footage, so it’s up to you to decide what works best for your production.
How can I make that decision on my own?
Are you not sure where to begin? Drop C&I Studios a line and we can get started on your next production. We can help you decide on which route will get you the shots you need and the best footage for your project. Contact us and let’s get started on making your vision a reality!