Film from full sized or remotely piloted helicopter?

It should be made clear that, at present, a remotely piloted Helicam is not a direct replacement for a full-sized helicopter with a camera mount. While there can be some overlap in the operational ranges for either, to try and use one entirely in the domain of the other is neither safe nor wise. For maximum benefit the user should apply each towards its own inherent strengths. If you need a long continuous shot over a tree covered landscape, filming from full size is the best option. If you need a shot flying under a bridge or chasing a car through an abandoned building - then this is the sweet spot for a Helicam.

If budget permits however, it can be quite spectacular to blend both technologies together, combining wide, high altitude panoramic views with tighter shots like those from a birds POV.

Regarding comparative costs, hiring a Helicam with an experienced, professional crew is usually 30% to 50% less than say renting a Jet Ranger with a Tyler mount for a days shooting. I should also qualify what I consider a "professional crew" in this equation. This would be a company that carries insurance, has more than one aircraft available, has numerous examples of smooth, steady, vibration free footage and has captured this footage in a wide variety of settings and weather conditions over a period of several years.

As mentioned previously, the typical range of a Helicam is about 1200 feet in the horizontal plane due to the need for the pilot to have continuous "line of sight" connection to the helicopter. This range can be increased dramatically however by using a variety of vehicles such as boats, ATV's, golf carts, cars, trucks, snowmobiles, etc. to fly from.

Perhaps the greatest advantage of remotely piloted camera platforms is their ability to obtain movements and angles that are uncommon and grab the viewers undivided attention. The most significant advancements being made with these systems is in the area of camera stabilization. Systems are now available that can hold a level horizon at +/- .5 degrees or less with small lightweight cameras. Similar systems for cinema quality cameras is not far behind.

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