Premier Graphics
& Animation
Work with us
Menu
Studio
OverviewServicesCapabilitiesThe Collection
Institute
OverviewProgrammesCourse libraryHow we teachCareersGuidesFor universities
Journal About Contact Work with us
Film & TV · MS elective · 3 credit hours · 16 sessions

Drone Cinematography

This course elevates filmmaking to the skies. It distinguishes between merely “flying a drone” and “aerial cinematography.” Students will learn flight physics, safety regulations, and complex multi-axis camera moves. The curriculum covers standard GPS-stabilized drones for establishing shots as well as the high-speed, acrobatic world of First Person View (FPV) flying for dynamic action sequences.

§ 01 By the end you can
  1. Master flight safety, pre-flight checklists, and airspace regulations (No-Fly Zones)
  2. Execute cinematic maneuvers: The Reveal, The Orbit, The Top-Down tracking
  3. Operate 3-axis gimbals for buttery smooth footage
  4. Introduction to FPV (First Person View) flight dynamics and safety
  5. Post-processing aerial footage: Stabilization (Gyroflow) and Color Grading
§ 02 Sixteen sessions

The whole semester.

  1. 01Flight Physics & Drone Anatomy
  2. 02Airspace Law, Safety & Ethics
  3. 03Camera Settings: ND Filters & Shutter Speed
  4. 04Basic Flight Patterns: Push, Pull, Truck
  5. 05Composition from Above: Pattern & Texture
  6. 06Intelligent Flight Modes (Active Track/Waypoints)
  7. 07Planning the Shot: Sun position & Weather
  8. 08 · MidtermMidterm Examination
  9. 09Advanced Maneuvers: The "Point of Interest" Orbit
  10. 10Tracking Vehicles & Subjects
  11. 11Intro to FPV: Simulators & Goggles
  12. 12FPV Cinematography: The "One Shot" Fly-through
  13. 13Indoor Drone Flight (Cine-whoops)
  14. 14Post-Production: Lens Correction & Stabilization
  15. 15Photogrammetry: 3D Mapping with Drones
  16. 16Final Project: The Aerial Showreel

Midterm around session 8. Final project briefed at session 8 or 9 and developed in stages until the juries.

§ 03 Final project

Final Project: The Aerial Showreel

How it’s judged

Recommended reading
  1. The Drone Camera Handbook by The Editors of Drone Magazine
  2. Aerial Photography and Videography Using Drones by Eric Cheng
  3. The Photographer's Guide to Drones by Colin Smith
  4. Drone Cinematography: The Art of Aerial Filmmaking (Online Resources/Masterclass)
  5. FAA Part 107 Study Guide (or local Aviation Authority equivalent)
More in Film & TV
Acting for Film & Film AnalysisThis hybrid course combines practical performance training with critical film theory. Students will learn the specific techniques of screen acting—minimalism, eye lines, and continuity—while simultaneously analyzing legendary performances from cinema history.
Acting for the CameraThe camera lens acts as a microscope for human behavior. This practical course helps actors transition from the projection required for stage to the intimacy required for screen.
Advanced Camera TechniquesThis technical course is designed for aspiring cinematographers who wish to master the visual language of cinema.
Advanced Film Editing (MS elective)This course moves beyond the basics of cutting to explore editing as an art of storytelling and emotional manipulation.
Advanced Film EditingThis course covers advanced techniques and concepts in film editing, focusing on narrative structure, pacing, continuity, and the creative use of editing software.
AI-Driven CinematographyThis futuristic course explores the convergence of Artificial Intelligence and the Director of Photography (DoP).