Aerial Camera Pilot
Camera Pilots are Heads of Department, responsible for a number of different aspects of aerial cinematography. When cinema audiences watch an action sequence of military helicopters in battle bursting into flames over miles of empty desert, or experience the illusion of swooping over the tops of skyscrapers, they are not aware of the difficulties involved in capturing these images, and of the logistical and organisational requirements. This is the work carried out by a small team of highly specialised film professionals - the aerial camera crew. Camera Pilots carry out an extremely specialised job within the film industry, requiring a high level of expertise that can only be acquired from flying experience. Consequently, there are a limited number of A-list Camera Pilots who are always in demand. Most Camera Pilots work on commercials and television productions, as well as on feature films.
What is the job?
Camera Pilots fly the aircraft that carries the aerial camera crew (Aerial Director of Photography (DoP) and Aerial Camera Assistant). Together they shoot the aerial sequences that form part of the finished feature film. Camera Pilots are also responsible for flying any aircraft, including helicopters, planes, hot air balloons, etc., that appear as action props in finished films. This may involve performing difficult stunts requiring a high degree of expertise and experience. Camera Pilots may also perform the role of Aerial Unit Director, responsible for realising the Director's vision for the aerial sequences; this can involve scouting for locations, working out aerial action sequences using models and storyboards, and directing these sequences (from the back of the aircraft, or whilst piloting). The Camera Pilot may also carry out the duties of the Aerial Co-ordinator, which includes performing more logistical tasks such as finding suitable aircraft and crew within a given budget and schedule.
If films involve large amounts of aerial photography or action sequences, Camera Pilots are hired approximately two months before shooting begins to allow for careful planning and preparation. If the aerial sequences require certain dispensations from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules, e.g., for flying under a bridge, or exceptionally low flying over densely populated conurbations, Camera Pilots must organise all clearance procedures, and liaise with police and local councils to ensure minimum disturbance and disruption. During shooting they arrive at the location early and prepare the aircraft (usually a helicopter) for its daily inspection by the Safety Engineer. Camera Pilots must check over and sign off the paperwork. As this is one of the few roles on a film crew that carries a serious life risk factor, strict adherence to aviation rules and regulations is essential. This is most important whilst flying the aircraft during filming, when Camera Pilots must work hard to achieve the Director's vision without compromising safety. Camera Pilots may also watch daily rushes with the Director and Aerial DoP, or may be invited into the cutting room to discuss the footage with the Editor.
Typical career routes
Because this is such a highly specialised job, there is no typical career route for the role of Camera Pilot. All Camera Pilots must have extensive experience of flying a variety of aircraft, especially helicopters.
Essential knowledge and skills
Camera Pilots must have a professional pilot's licence and an excellent knowledge of aerodynamics and aviation. A thorough understanding of CAA rules and regulations and a good working knowledge of the capabilities of a wide variety of aircraft are also prerequisites. Good working knowledge of how to shoot action sequences is essential, as well as familiarity with all aerial camera systems and equipment.
Key Skills include:
Training and qualifications
A prerequisite for flying any aircraft in the UK is a commercial pilot's license, granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. They must therefore undertake training for a professional pilot's licence, and fly in as many different locations and conditions as possible. Many Camera Pilots working in the film industry have previously undergone military training, which is invaluable for learning the importance of team work, and for understanding the limitations of what can and cannot be achieved in difficult, often dangerous, situations.
Individual course accreditation in certain subject areas is currently being piloted. As part of Skillset's and the UK Film Council's Film Skills Strategy, A Bigger Future, a network of Screen Academies and a Film Business Academy have been approved as centres of excellence in education and training for film.
Where to go for more information
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset's website for links to our network of training partners, information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers is UK's only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit www.skillset.org/careers.
Websites
- Civil Aviation Authority;
- British Society of Cinematographers;
- BECTU, the trade union represents camera personnel;
- The Guild of British Camera Technicians aims to further the professional interests of technicians working with motion picture cameras Guild of British Camera Technicians website;
- The Moving Image Society (BKSTS) organises events, courses, and demonstrations of new equipment, and publishes Image Technology;
Publications - Flyer Magazine;- Jane's Aircraft Recognition Guide by David Rendall
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Camera Pilot - Film 
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