How to shoot drone group photos
How we capture drone aerial group photos with people arranged in shapes - with lots of people!
It's not an detailed guide but the video should give a little insight into how we personally set up a photo like this up to capture from the drone.
We currently use the DJI Phantom 4. (I am considering the new DJI mavic air, however this be more for travel rather than aerial group photos. Like this - more on that another time)
This photo was for Safety Bay Primary School. Coordinating over 700 students into the shape of a 75 to commemorate the school's 75th birthday.
A few other key tips:
-Weather - always important with flying drones however the peoples comfort should be considered too especially if photographing children. They may have to stand in close proximity in hot sun for a while.
-Two crew is best. One pilot and one to direct people. A two way may be handy too if the pilot is standing out of shot and the director is close to the group, to give feedback.
-Pre-scout the area from the air. Some places don't look nice from the sky.
-Consider your local laws with drones in proximity to people. If possibly (if there is any wind) shoot from the leeward side of the group. If the drone fails (although highly unlikely) it won't be blown towards the group.
-Remember you can always delete people in photoshop if needed.
-Lastly, you will find that a lot of people condense down into a surprisingly small area when standing - especially kids. Don't make your shape too big.
VIDEO GEAR - Current Kit:
4k Video editing laptop: https://goo.gl/4de9QC
Main Vlog Camera: https://goo.gl/8MZY6a
On camera mic: https://goo.gl/zKHy6K
Favourite vlogging lens: https://goo.gl/ipG9Hf
Other Gear when used:
Voice Over Microphone: https://goo.gl/nZpzVm
Lapel mic used: https://goo.gl/Ex4zFc
Radio mic I use: https://goo.gl/2hm6G8
Long zoom lens: https://goo.gl/VHE3S3
50mm Prime Lens: https://goo.gl/iYbVTn
Other fav prime lens 85mm: https://goo.gl/EcEBrK