Aerial Photography Using Rc Helicopters

Over the last year the use of remote control helicopters for aerial photography applications has taken a huge leap send into the mainstream. This is generally due to more exposure in the press and thus more population knowing what is possible. The basic technology has unmistakably been ready for a while now, although recently it has come to be cheaper, more reliable and with a few new innovations, much safer.

So how can you go about getting your own aerial photography rig in the air? There are three main elements to consider:

RC Helicopter

* The helicopter airframe you wish to use.

* The camera gimbal, control and viewing system.

* Stabilisation and autopilot technology.

Aerial Photography Using Rc Helicopters

The best way to conclude what remote controlled helicopter to use for your aerial photography project is to first conclude what camera or camera weight you would like to use. If you conclude to go for a budget choice with a small point-and-shoot, then you can get away with a smaller helicopter to lift the weight. However if you want to go all out with Dslr aerial photography, then you will need a larger helicopter, at least a 600-class to lift the required weight. Stick with galvanic motors the benefits being less vibration and noise. The helicopter should be of a good build quality, being able to undergo heavy lifting, and then modified to your requirements, the Align and Maxi Joker series are a beloved choice.

Once you have a helicopter ready to go, make sure you can fly it comfortably. Then you can look at the best way to mount your camera system - in front or under slung. Both will work better in dissimilar situations, However I prefer a front mounted system, as this is easier to cut off from vibration, and allows a better angle for filming. The weight can unmistakably be offset by mounting the batteries below the tail. Vibration isolation is very important; it is most unmistakably worth buying a more costly mount that does a better job of this. control can be achieved straight through a second radio system (and a second operator is recommended). Controlling pan, tilt, roll, shutter and many other functions is potential as well as video down links so you can see and frame you shots from the ground.

Flight stabilisation for remote controlled helicopters has moved send very fast recently, with great new innovations as well as soldiery Uav technology development its way into the industrial market. I would suggest at least a basic system, as it will supply a much more carport platform to shoot from. If you are an experienced pilot, this will be enough. However if your budget can adapt the outlay, there are autopilot systems capable of flying your aerial photography helicopter with no hand-operated input via pre-programmed Gps waypoints. Safety is also a great advantage of these systems, from keeping the helicopter carport if transportation is lost, to returning it to its take-off point automatically with the more developed systems.

A final word must be said about assurance and permission to show the way aerial work within the Uk. So far as I know there is no tool cover ready for small unmanned aerial photography vehicles in the Uk, there is However cover ready for collective liability and professional indemnity, both of which I suggest taking out. Ultimately the Civil Aviation Authority requires that any aerial work carried out in the Uk has permission from them to do so. They are determined the leading body in this field and thus many other countries are following their approach.

Aerial Photography Using Rc Helicopters