Adding drones to your shoot can take your production to the next level-but there’s more to it than just getting a cool aerial shot. Whether you’re shooting a commercial, feature film, or live event, hiring the right drone team can save you time, money, and major headaches.
Here’s what every producer should know before bringing a drone crew on set.
1. Not All Drone Teams Are Created Equal
Anyone can buy a drone. Very few can fly one well under pressure, in tight windows, on union jobs, or in complex environments.
Look for a team with:
A track record of high-profile work
Experience shooting for film, TV, and commercials
The ability to fly legally and safely in controlled airspace
A deep understanding of storytelling, not just flying
At Yeah Drones, we've flown for projects like CNN’s live Fourth of July broadcast, Hulu series, Super Bowl spots, and more. We've worked everywhere from midtown Manhattan to international waters-and we know how to show up, solve problems, and get the shot.
2. Legal Requirements Matter (A Lot)
Drone laws aren’t just fine print. They're real, and breaking them can shut down your shoot or cost you big.
Before hiring a drone team, make sure they:
Are FAA Part 107 Certified
Carry proper liability and equipment insurance
Know local airspace restrictions and permitting rules
Understand set safety protocols, especially for union and SAG shoots
Our team handles all of this for you-permits, paperwork, and planning-so you don’t have to stress about compliance.
3. Pre-Production Is Where the Magic Happens
The earlier we’re brought into the process, the more value we can bring.
We can:
Help scout from an aerial perspective
Flag potential airspace or line-of-sight issues
Recommend the right gear based on your creative
Build out shot options that enhance story and efficiency
We love collaborating with DPs, directors, and producers from the jump. The more we understand the creative vision, the more strategic and cinematic the aerials can be.
4. Drones Are a Creative Tool, Not Just a Toy
A drone is more than just a camera in the sky. It's a storytelling device. The best shots aren’t always the biggest-they’re the ones that elevate the scene without calling attention to themselves.
We often:
Replace cranes, dollies, or gimbals
Track talent with ultra-precise FPV rigs
Capture scenes safely and efficiently from challenging angles
Work as a splinter unit to shoot inserts, transitions, or doubles
Bottom line: if you're only using drones for pretty wide shots, you're missing out.
5. Communication Is Everything
You don’t want a drone team that just shows up and flies. You want a team that understands the flow of set life, communicates clearly, adapts fast, and respects the work happening around them.
We show up ready, dialed in, and focused on getting you what you need without slowing you down. Whether we’re coordinating with production, flying with talent, or slotting into a tight schedule—we’re team players first, pilots second.
Final Word
Hiring a drone team isn’t about checking a box. It’s about finding partners who understand the creative, the logistics, and the stakes. At Yeah Drones, we’ve spent years mastering that balance—and we’re ready to help your next production take flight.
-Randy Scott Slavin
Owner, YEAH DRONES
Got a shoot coming up? Let’s talk.