Need A Drone For Your Next Shoot?

So, you're looking for a reliable, cost effective and experienced drone operator for your next production... but you'll find yourself asking a lot of questions in the run up to your decision.

This article should help – here's a quick Q&A with one of the UK's leading operators, Upper Cut Productions. With over 10 years experience in the drone industry, they pride themselves on a slick operation and an esteemed reputation.

Tell us about Upper Cut Productions?
We started in 2004 as photographers looking to capture shots from unique perspectives and began using helium balloons and primitive drones. Initially the equipment was very basic but as time progressed, so did the technology and we have continued to invest heavily in the latest kit. We are now flying some of the best cinema-quality cameras using heavy-lift drones. Our clients are extremely discerning and benefit from our experience and commitment to quality. From the initial enquiry to flight planning, production and delivery, we aim for the highest level of service.

What services do you provide?
We provide a broad range of aerial services from up to 6K footage for the film industry to 50MP digital stills photography for commercials and visual effects projects. We are ARRI certified and own an ALEXA Mini camera which means we are ready to roll at short notice. This camera is finely tuned on a MoVI M15 and flown under our FreeFly Systems ALTA 8 heavy-lift drone – we can fly this rig for over 10 minutes and the footage is rock-solid smooth. Whilst we specialise in drone aerial imagery, we also offer ground-based film and photography packages, time lapse, virtual tours and 360 virtual reality filming.

What sort of clients have you worked for?
The company's credits are extensive and sometimes obscure which fuels excitement in the office. From an explosive Bollywood production on the Top Gear test track to battling 30mph winds on Cornish cliffs for an Agatha Christie drama, there's never a dull moment. We have even been treated to some live comedy from Jack Whitehall whilst filming his recent movie.

"From the initial enquiry to filming on location in Cornwall and Pembroke, the guys from Upper Cut were very reliable and the footage was solid," said Brett Wilson, Production Manager, 'Bad Education The Movie'. Other notable clients include the BBC (approved supplier), Sky, Landrover, Nikon, Google and Discovery Channel amongst others.

What is the process for hiring you for a drone job?
Generally, following an enquiry, we'll conduct flight planning, risk assessment and liaison with local air traffic control. We discuss all aspects of the brief such as dates, shot requirements, safety and weather and then book a 2-man crew with over 10 years experience to deliver the work for you.

Tell us about your licensing and restrictions?
We are CAOSC approved by the CAA, which is an exclusive higher-level of license that permits flying drones with fewer restrictions in congested areas. This makes the whole process much easier more flexible for our clients. We've been flying drones since before the need to have a license and have a vast experience to draw on. Drones can be extremely dangerous in the wrong hands and we take safety, kit maintenance and CAA regulations very seriously. Our flight planning team is led by Jordan Brooks who will happily work with you through all the details and intricacies of your drone shoot.

Well, it's clear to see that Upper Cut Productions are heavily equipped with the latest tech and their experience and commitment to delivering the highest quality should give you confidence. Why not give them a call to see how they can help.

Image: On location with the BBC.

Tel: 01159 242 646
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: uppercutproductions

www.uppercutproductions.co.uk

(JP)