For commercial filming in jurisdictions served by FilmLA, drone activity requires a filming permit, supporting drone documentation, and aviation insurance. Depending on the location, separate FAA airspace authorization may also be needed. An existing production permit does not automatically cover drone use. Contact us early so we can review your locations and coordinate the required drone paperwork with your production team.

These shots require advance planning. Flying near a subject and flying directly over them involve different considerations, and flights over people or moving vehicles must meet applicable FAA requirements or waiver conditions. We review the proposed camera move, aircraft, separation distances, and control of the location to determine what’s feasible and plan alternatives where needed.

We plan aerial footage around your director’s vision and your cinematographer’s technical requirements. Share visual references, the intended edit, and your preferred resolution, frame rate, aspect ratio, and color workflow before the shoot. This helps us confirm the appropriate equipment and recording settings, while designing camera moves that connect naturally with your ground footage.

Send your filming locations, proposed dates, shot list or storyboard, expected hours, and delivery requirements. Flag any night scenes, vehicle tracking, or shots involving talent so we can assess the scope accurately. Reach out while locations and schedules are still being finalized: permitting deadlines vary by jurisdiction, and more complex aerial activity can require additional lead time.