Helicopters for Aerial Photography and Filmmaking: Top Picks for Capturing the Perfect Shot

Roto Ace

Aerial photography and filmmaking have become essential in industries ranging from entertainment to real estate. To capture breathtaking shots from the sky, helicopters offer filmmakers and photographers the flexibility and vantage points that drones or other aircraft may not provide. Helicopters, with their ability to hover and provide steady, controlled flight, are ideal for getting those perfect aerial shots. In this article, we’ll explore the top helicopters used for aerial photography and filmmaking, and what makes them the best choices for professionals looking to capture stunning visuals.

1. Why Helicopters Are Ideal for Aerial Photography and Filmmaking

While drones have revolutionized the world of aerial shots, helicopters remain the go-to choice for larger, more complex filming projects. Whether it’s a Hollywood blockbuster or a documentary capturing vast landscapes, helicopters offer a range of advantages.

Advantages of Helicopters for Aerial Filming:

  • Stability and Control: Helicopters offer more stability than drones, especially in high winds or when flying at higher altitudes. They provide a smooth, steady platform for capturing stable footage.
  • Longer Flight Time: Unlike drones, which are limited by battery life, helicopters can remain airborne for extended periods, making them perfect for lengthy shoots.
  • Higher Payload: Helicopters can carry larger, more sophisticated cameras, lenses, and stabilization equipment, providing higher-quality footage than most drones.
  • Flexibility: Helicopters can hover, fly in a straight line, circle a subject, or ascend and descend quickly, offering a wide range of movement for creative shots.

2. Top Helicopters for Aerial Photography and Filmmaking

Several helicopter models are particularly well-suited for aerial photography and filmmaking due to their versatility, stability, and advanced technology. Below are some of the top picks used by professionals in the industry.

1. Airbus H125 (AS350 Écureuil)

The Airbus H125, also known as the AS350 Écureuil, is a popular choice for aerial photography due to its stability, versatility, and ability to operate in high-altitude environments. It has a spacious cabin that can be modified to accommodate camera rigs, and its powerful engine allows it to carry heavy camera equipment with ease.

  • Max Speed: 140 knots (259 km/h)
  • Range: 340 nautical miles (630 km)
  • Key Features: Powerful engine, high-altitude performance, customizable interior, and low vibration for stable shots.

2. Bell 206 JetRanger

The Bell 206 JetRanger is a light helicopter known for its reliability, low operating costs, and smooth flight capabilities. It has been used in countless film and TV productions due to its ability to provide steady aerial footage. The compact size makes it ideal for flying in tight spaces while still providing ample space for camera operators and equipment.

  • Max Speed: 120 knots (222 km/h)
  • Range: 374 nautical miles (693 km)
  • Key Features: Low operating costs, stable flight, and easy maneuverability in urban or tight environments.

3. Robinson R44

The Robinson R44 is an affordable and highly versatile option for aerial photography and filmmaking. While it’s a smaller helicopter, it still offers good payload capacity for camera equipment and provides steady flight for capturing smooth footage. Its relatively low operating cost makes it accessible for smaller film projects or real estate videography.

  • Max Speed: 117 knots (217 km/h)
  • Range: 348 nautical miles (644 km)
  • Key Features: Affordable, stable flight, and easy handling.

4. Bell 407

The Bell 407 is a versatile and powerful helicopter, offering a balance between speed, stability, and payload capacity. It’s widely used in news broadcasting, documentary filmmaking, and commercial projects. The spacious cabin allows for camera setups and additional crew, making it a top choice for capturing detailed aerial footage.

  • Max Speed: 133 knots (246 km/h)
  • Range: 330 nautical miles (611 km)
  • Key Features: Spacious cabin, excellent stability, and high-speed performance.

5. Sikorsky S-76

The Sikorsky S-76 is often used in larger productions, especially for aerial shots that require long-range flights or additional crew members. With its luxurious cabin and advanced avionics, the S-76 offers a comfortable and professional platform for high-quality aerial filming.

  • Max Speed: 155 knots (287 km/h)
  • Range: 400 nautical miles (740 km)
  • Key Features: Large cabin for crew and equipment, advanced avionics, and smooth flight performance.

3. Essential Equipment for Aerial Filming

In addition to choosing the right helicopter, it’s important to equip your aerial setup with the right camera and stabilization tools. Below are some key pieces of equipment to ensure your aerial shots are as smooth and professional as possible.

1. Gyro-Stabilized Camera Systems

One of the most important tools for aerial filming is a gyro-stabilized camera system. These systems reduce vibration and ensure smooth, stable footage, even when the helicopter is in motion.

  • Popular Options: Shotover K1, Cineflex V14, GSS C520

2. Gimbal Mounts

Gimbals are essential for keeping the camera steady while the helicopter moves. A well-designed gimbal will keep the camera stable, even in high winds or sudden maneuvers.

3. High-Resolution Cameras

For the best aerial footage, choose high-resolution cameras that can capture sharp details and handle changing light conditions. Some popular choices for aerial photography and filmmaking include the ARRI Alexa Mini, RED Komodo, and Sony Venice.

4. Creative Uses of Aerial Filming in Industries

Aerial photography and filmmaking have a wide range of applications, from blockbuster movies to marketing campaigns. Here are a few industries that rely heavily on helicopters for aerial visuals.

1. Film and Television

In the world of film and TV, helicopters are often used to capture dramatic landscape shots, high-speed chases, or action-packed scenes. The ability to maneuver in various environments gives filmmakers the creative freedom to capture unique angles and perspectives.

2. Real Estate and Architecture

High-end real estate projects use aerial photography to showcase properties and their surrounding areas. Helicopters can provide potential buyers with a bird’s-eye view of a property’s location, layout, and nearby amenities, creating impactful marketing content.

3. Tourism and Travel

Tourism boards and travel companies use helicopters to film scenic landscapes, iconic landmarks, and remote locations that attract potential visitors. These aerial shots are often used in promotional videos or virtual tours.

4. Sports and Events

Helicopters are frequently used to capture aerial footage of major sporting events, such as marathons, motorsports, and golf tournaments. They offer dynamic angles that can’t be achieved from the ground.

5. Tips for Successful Aerial Filming

Here are some tips to ensure you get the best results when using helicopters for aerial photography or filmmaking:

  • Plan Your Shot in Advance: Pre-visualize the scenes you want to capture and communicate them clearly to the pilot. Make sure to coordinate flight paths, angles, and timing to get the perfect shot.
  • Check the Weather: Weather conditions can greatly affect the stability of the helicopter and the quality of your footage. Choose clear, calm days whenever possible.
  • Use the Right Stabilization Equipment: Invest in high-quality stabilization equipment like gyro-stabilized cameras and gimbals to ensure smooth and professional-looking footage.
  • Work with an Experienced Pilot: Choose a pilot with experience in aerial filming to ensure safety and precision during flight. An experienced pilot will know how to maneuver the helicopter to get the best angles while maintaining safety.

Conclusion

Helicopters are an essential tool for capturing stunning aerial photography and filmmaking. From large productions to smaller commercial projects, the flexibility, stability, and versatility of helicopters make them the preferred choice for professionals seeking unique and high-quality aerial footage. With top models like the Airbus H125 and Bell 407 leading the way, aerial photography continues to push the boundaries of creativity and technology.

Related Articles

More from This Category

Related Posts