Careful planning. Creative vision. And technical skill. These are the key elements that FAA drone pilot Jon Swindall (a.k.a. Air Swindy) of Atlanta’s Swindy Films says are critical in successfully capturing the perfect shot.
Swindall’s own planning, vision and skill are behind the aerial camera moves in series Ozark, The Resident and major motion pictures.
Here’s how the cinematographer honed his drone skills, along with wisdom and tips for budding visual storytellers.
On getting into aerial cinematography
“As an Atlanta native, I started my journey in this field while studying Film Studies at Emory University. It was in college that I was exposed to the thriving art and music scene in Atlanta, which had a profound influence on me. The vibrant creativity and cultural energy of the city fueled my love for photography and cinematography, pushing me to dive deeper into image storytelling.
Air Swindy's Jon Swindall shares, “The real training [was] the years of hands-on experience as a cinematographer on different sets, perfecting my skills in capturing shots.”
Driven by a desire to learn how to create beautiful pictures, I went on a journey that took me to Australia, where I studied studio and fashion photography at photography school, honing my skills in capturing images.
Following my studies in Australia, I immersed myself in the world of film by getting my MFA from Florida State University Film School. It was during this time that I discovered my true calling as a cinematographer.
Before transitioning to television, I spent time working as a gaffer, immersing myself in the craft of mastering lighting techniques for commercials and features. The experience of being a gaffer gave me a valuable understanding of managing time, set coordination, set lingo and set dynamics.
And I found out that I really enjoy having conversations with DP's and Director's about trying to "get the shot," considering both the artistic and practical aspects. The joy and reward of this work is in successfully capturing that perfect shot. It's the culmination of careful planning, creative vision, and technical skill.
When everything comes together, it's an incredible feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction.
While DP'ing television shows, a groundbreaking revelation happened to me — the extraordinary potential of drones to capture "movie magic" and "get the shot." The moment I saw those mind-blowing shots and the fresh perspectives they offered, I was completely hooked.
This realization opened up a world of possibilities, not only for my own work but also for collaborating with fellow cinematographers and creatives.”
“It must be mentioned that the mental strains and challenges that come with flying a camera drone on set can be intense.”
The hallmark of Swindall’s pilot skills in film productions
“When it comes to my pilot skills in film productions, I'd like to think I've got the perfect mix of technical know-how and artistic passion. Safety is my number one priority, making sure everyone feels safe and protected on set. I try and pay attention to every little detail and handle all the paperwork as [smoothly] as possible.
But what truly excites me is collaborating with other creative minds, combining their unique ideas with my drone expertise, and bringing our vision to life.”
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Snapshot: JON SWINDALL - AIR SWINDY
Member of: IATSE local 600, FAA Pilot, AMA, Fayette FlyersAerial drone pilot: Cine, FPV & Cinewhoop style. Drone: DJI Mavic 3 Cine, DJI Inspire 2X7, Custom FPV. Credentials: FAA Part 107 licensed, drone camera operator, drone pilot/DP, 10 yrs. + aerial productions.Credits: Ozark; The Resident; Love Is Blind; Now Screaming; Manhunt: Unabomber; MacGyver Volvo; Mercedes; Truist; PGA Golf Course
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Top-notch certifications and training for the creative cinema drone pilot
“While formal education in the film industry is not a requirement, I've personally benefited from my formal education in this field. It has provided me with valuable knowledge and skills that have proven beneficial in my career as a creative drone pilot. I earned my BFA in Film Studies, which gave me a language to discuss the art and history of film.
Taking things to the next level, I pursued a master's degree in Film Production from FSU Film School, where I focused on the technical aspects of cinematography. The real training [was] the years of hands-on experience as a cinematographer on different sets, perfecting my skills in capturing shots.
Becoming a skilled drone pilot is no small feat—it takes countless hours of practice, obsessive passion, and an unyielding desire to be the best. From the early stages of my journey, I found myself constantly searching for new and exciting places to fly, maneuvers to perfect, driven by an insatiable curiosity to "see from above."
The hours I've spent on my own honing my skills, imagining shots in my head, and practicing maneuvers, have been invaluable. On set, the expectation is perfection.
Collaborating and learning from other talented pilots has been an incredible source of growth and inspiration. We challenge each other, navigate regulations, discuss technology, cover and support each other on jobs, and push the limits of what's possible.
It must be mentioned that the mental strains and challenges that come with flying a camera drone on set can be intense. I do things like weight training, hot yoga and meditation to stay in shape and keep a balance. It helps me stay focused and calm on big stunt explosion days. When I feel good physically and mentally, things become easier and I feel sharp. Drone going up!”
“It's not just about the drone in flight, but also about anticipating and interpreting the weather conditions and planning for the perfect lighting and wind conditions.”
Developing mad drone pilot skills
“When it comes to drone piloting skills, I think there's a mix of things that can be learned and some that just come naturally.
Good drone pilots have the ability to stay focused, communicate well, pay attention to details, and have sharp eyesight. They also need quick reflexes, perform well under pressure, stay organized, and have a knack for recognizing objects in space.
It's like being a bit of a daredevil while also being practical and down-to-earth. I think some of these skills can be taught, while others are just part of who you are.”
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Photo credit: Mike Bauwens
Pictured here, a drone featuring a top-mounted gimbal and camera. Drone: SHOTOVER U2 / Gimbal: SHOTOVER / Camera: RED V-Raptor / Lens: CANON FE 15mm f2.8 S.S.C. Fisheye
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Photo credit: Phil Pelletier
Pictured here, a drone featuring a bottom-mounted gimbal and camera. Drone: SHOTOVER U2 / Gimbal: SHOTOVER G1
AI in the field – friend or foe?
“AI has already made the drone industry much safer in the last couple of years with the ever increasing ability to see and avoid obstacles autonomously, reducing the risk of flying on set.
It's amazing – AI is also helping us to create never-before-seen shots. AI can assist in automating flight paths, allowing drones to capture extremely precise programmable shots with little human intervention. It can also aid in real-time object tracking and framing, getting smooth and accurate subject tracking when the drone is in the air.
As the drone automation technology advances, the need for a separate camera operator and pilot is diminishing, where that one person will soon handle both responsibilities in many more scenarios on set.”
A drone pilot’s critical involvement in production meetings
“In major film productions, each project comes with its own unique challenges. Sometimes there's lots of information and sometimes there's none. Oftentimes, it's prepare for anything and everything.
For instance, in a past Marvel movie, I played a key role in drone location scouting with weeks and weeks in advance, meticulously documenting details and creating flight plans for capturing specific shots.
Drones are so commonplace now that often we don't get invited to production meetings and oftentimes, before we are on set, we collaborate with the locations department about permissions and flight path and where we want to takeoff/land and that's about it.
Many times we only get a call sheet with a one liner and maybe a description of action. We'll show up on set before call and scope out the location for obstacles. And then you usually you get info from Director and DP about shots on the day before they do their first teamwork. In cases where we're on standby, we must be close and ready to fly.
An example of this was my work on Ozark, where I frequently received notice just a day before shooting. Typically, we arrive in the morning, walk through drone shots for the day, plan the day, rehearse, and then get ready for intense, focused rounds of scene shooting.
There are also instances where complex scenes are happening and we've been given freedom to adapt to the situation, like jazz. It's pretty cool that during intense action sequences or chase scenes we can fly close to the action and post can paint out the drone from the other angles.
In certain shoots, precise timing and coordination are vital to make sure the drone works in harmony with other production elements and require way more planning - Like the well-rehearsed and choreographed FPV cinewhoop videos going through stadiums and car windows.
The availability of information varies from project to project. Sometimes we're provided with extensive details, while other times we actively seek out information and ask questions. As a drone team, we often take on the responsibility of figuring out logistics and being in the right place at the right time. It's a dynamic process that demands adaptability, production savvy, and quick decision-making skills.
Overall, my involvement in production requires careful planning, effective communication, and the ability to adapt to changes swiftly. It's an exciting adventure filled with challenges and opportunities to capture incredible footage.”
“As the drone automation technology advances, the need for a separate camera operator and pilot is diminishing, where that one person will soon handle both responsibilities in many more scenarios on set.”
The pro drone pilot’s take on artistry
“Being a drone pilot and creative is all about expressing your artistry and craft. Just as a painter carefully selects colors and brushes to convey emotions, I choose the perfect lenses, flight path, camera movements and framing to tell a compelling story. It's not just about the drone in flight, but also about anticipating and interpreting the weather conditions and planning for the perfect lighting and wind conditions. It's a balance between nature's elements, artistic instincts and technical skill.”
The special big-picture skills of a creative drone photographer and cinematographer
“They need to be prepared for much more paperwork and navigating regulations specific to drone operations. They must be detail-oriented, ensuring compliance with safety protocols and flight restrictions. Additionally, they must have the ability to work under pressure, staying calm and friendly even in challenging situations.”
“The key is to stay committed and keep learning.”
Skill development for the drone cinematographer
“Flying is definitely a crucial part of developing and growing skills as a drone cinematographer, but it's not the only aspect. Engaging and hanging out with other drone pilots and professionals in the field is incredibly valuable. Sharing experiences, insights, and techniques with fellow pilots can provide unique perspectives and knowledge. Watching online videos, following social media, and staying updated on tech trends are also valuable. Each person's path is unique, whether they come from trick helicopter piloting or traditional onset roles. The key is to stay committed and keep learning.
Keep flying, be open to learning, and stay persistent. Good luck!”
