Aerial Videographer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this modern era, the role of aerial videographers is increasingly critical.

As the demand for captivating aerial footage soars, the need for skilled individuals who can create, enhance, and safely capture our world from above becomes more crucial.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s genuinely expected from an aerial videographer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of aerial videography,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a flexible aerial videographer job description template, prepared for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Aerial Videographer Duties and Responsibilities

Aerial Videographers use drones and other aerial equipment to capture high-quality video footage from unique angles and perspectives.

They may work in a variety of fields, such as film, television, real estate, and more.

They are primarily responsible for planning, filming, and editing aerial footage, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Plan and visualize the desired shots and scenes in collaboration with clients or directors
• Operate drones and other aerial equipment safely and effectively to capture high-quality video footage
• Ensure all equipment is maintained properly and is in good working condition
• Use video editing software to assemble raw footage into a finished product that matches the vision of the client or director
• Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in aerial videography and drone technology
• Comply with all local, state, and federal laws regarding the operation of drones
• Collaborate with other crew members, such as directors, photographers, and sound editors
• Manage the storage, backup, and archiving of video footage

 

Aerial Videographer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a talented and experienced Aerial Videographer to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for capturing high-quality, aesthetically pleasing aerial footage using drones.

Your primary duties will include performing pre-flight checks, operating drones in a safe and controlled manner, editing raw footage, and ensuring client satisfaction.

Previous experience as a Videographer and a keen eye for detail are essential.

 

Responsibilities

• Conducting pre-flight checks and planning flight paths
• Operating drones to capture high-quality footage
• Editing and assembling raw footage into a finished product
• Maintaining equipment and ensuring drones are in working order
• Adhering to flight safety regulations and guidelines
• Collaborating with clients and team members to fulfill project requirements
• Staying current with industry trends and emerging drone technologies

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Videographer or similar role
• Proficient in using drone technology and camera equipment
• Knowledge of video editing software
• Strong creative and visual skills
• Attention to detail
• Familiarity with flight safety regulations
• Ability to work in various weather conditions
• Excellent communication skills
• FAA Part 107 certification or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aerial Videographer
• Work Environment: This role involves both office and outdoor work. Travel will be required for on-location shoots.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Videographer or Creative Director.
• Salary: Salary is based on experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter, and a portfolio of your work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Aerial Videographer Do?

Aerial Videographers are typically employed by media production companies, real estate firms, advertising agencies, or they work as freelancers.

They specialize in capturing high-quality video footage from an aerial perspective using drone technology.

This often involves piloting drones in a variety of environments and weather conditions to get the perfect shot.

Their work entails planning shots and sequences, setting up and maintaining drone equipment, and ensuring compliance with local and federal aviation regulations.

This includes understanding and adhering to flight restrictions, privacy laws, and insurance requirements.

Aerial videographers also handle the post-production process, which can include video editing, sound editing, and color correction.

They must be able to adapt their filming techniques based on the specific requirements of each project, whether it be for a film, a commercial, a real estate tour, or a live event.

They work closely with other creative professionals, such as directors and producers, to ensure that the aerial footage aligns with the overall vision of the project.

They may also work with clients directly to understand their requirements and deliver footage that meets their expectations.

Apart from technical skills, aerial videographers need to have a good eye for composition, lighting, and movement to create visually stunning and impactful aerial footage.

They are often responsible for scouting locations, predicting and managing potential risks, and ensuring the safety of their operations.

 

Aerial Videographer Qualifications and Skills

An Aerial Videographer should possess a unique combination of technical skills, artistic creativity, and a deep understanding of drone technology and operations.

These skills and qualifications include:

• Proficiency in flying drones to capture high-quality videos and photos from unique perspectives and angles.
• Extensive knowledge of drone technology, laws, and regulations to ensure safe and legal operation.
• Technical skills in video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects or similar software to produce engaging content.
• Strong visual storytelling abilities to create compelling narratives with aerial footage.
• Attention to detail and creativity in order to capture unique shots that enhance the narrative of the video content.
• Strong spatial awareness and understanding of weather conditions to safely operate drones in various environments.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to troubleshoot drone or equipment issues on location.
• Ability to work within strict timelines and under pressure to deliver high-quality content.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate with clients and team members to achieve the desired outcome.
• Physical stamina to transport, set up, and operate drone equipment in various locations and conditions.

 

Aerial Videographer Experience Requirements

Aerial Videographers often begin their journey with a background in photography or videography, gaining a solid foundational understanding of composition, lighting, and storytelling through visual mediums.

For entry-level positions, candidates may have up to 1 to 2 years of experience in videography, often through internships, freelancing, or part-time roles.

This experience might include a mix of ground and aerial videography, with a growing emphasis on drone usage.

To gain more experience in aerial videography specifically, these individuals may have obtained a remote pilot certificate (Part 107), which is required by the FAA to legally operate a drone for commercial purposes in the US.

This certificate requires passing a knowledge test, which involves studying airspace rules, weather, and UAV operations.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a robust portfolio demonstrating their ability to capture stunning aerial footage for a variety of projects, such as real estate, film production, or sporting events.

They may also be proficient in video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have advanced skills in piloting drones, knowledge of drone cinematography techniques, and the ability to manage a videography project from concept to completion.

They may also have experience in training and overseeing other videographers, making them suitable for leadership roles within a video production team.

 

Aerial Videographer Education and Training Requirements

Aerial Videographers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in Film or Television Production, Cinematography, or a related field.

They should possess a fundamental understanding of video recording techniques and editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or similar tools.

In addition to this, it is crucial for Aerial Videographers to have expertise in operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones.

As such, a certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to legally operate drones for commercial use is a requirement in the United States.

Many institutions and online platforms offer drone piloting courses that equip students with knowledge about drone mechanics, operating rules, and safety regulations.

Passing these courses usually culminates in earning a FAA Remote Pilot Certificate.

Experience with aerial cinematography is highly valued in this field.

Therefore, having a comprehensive portfolio showcasing past work can give candidates an edge over others.

Continual education is also essential in this rapidly evolving field.

As technology advances, Aerial Videographers need to stay updated with the latest equipment and software.

While not always mandatory, professional development courses in areas like aerial photography, videography techniques, or storytelling can further enhance an Aerial Videographer’s skills and career prospects.

 

Aerial Videographer Salary Expectations

An Aerial Videographer can expect to earn an average salary of $65,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ depending on factors such as experience, skill level, type of equipment used, and the location of the job.

 

Aerial Videographer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an aerial videographer need?

An aerial videographer should possess technical skills related to drone operations and videography.

This includes knowledge of drone navigation, camera operation, video editing software, and understanding of weather conditions and flight safety rules.

They also need good eye-hand coordination, creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to visualize the final product.

 

Do aerial videographers need a degree?

No, a degree is not a requirement to become an aerial videographer.

However, gaining a degree in a field like videography, film, or media studies can be beneficial.

Most importantly, aerial videographers need to have a license to operate drones commercially.

This typically involves passing an FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) exam in the United States, or equivalent in other countries.

 

What should you look for in an aerial videographer’s resume?

First and foremost, look for a certification or license to fly drones commercially.

A potential candidate should also have experience with videography, preferably with aerial shots.

This can be showcased through a portfolio or demo reel.

Additional valuable skills would be proficiency with video editing software and experience with different types of drones.

 

What qualities make a good aerial videographer?

A good aerial videographer possesses a blend of technical and creative skills.

They should have an eye for capturing unique perspectives, and the technical knowledge to operate drones safely and effectively.

They should also be adaptable to changing weather conditions and flexible with shooting schedules.

Good communication skills are also important, as they often need to work closely with clients to capture their vision.

 

Is it difficult to hire an aerial videographer?

Hiring an aerial videographer can be challenging due to the specialized skill set required.

It’s not just about flying a drone; the videographer must also understand camera angles, lighting, and storytelling through video.

Additionally, because the industry is relatively new, finding experienced aerial videographers can be difficult.

However, with the right job description and competitive compensation, you can attract skilled professionals.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we soared above the clouds to uncover what it truly means to be an aerial videographer.

Guess what?

It’s not just about flying drones.

It’s about capturing the world from a unique perspective, one frame at a time.

With our go-to aerial videographer job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to embark on this journey.

But why settle for the horizon?

Fly higher with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every frame captured is a part of the bigger story.

Let’s tell that story. Together.

Reasons to Become an Aerial Videographer (Aim for Altitude)

How to Become an Aerial Videographer (Complete Guide)

Disadvantages of Being an Aerial Videographer (Not Just Bird’s-Eye!)

The Art of Easy Earning: Jobs That Will Change Your Mind About Work!

Job Juggernauts: The Careers That Are Dominating Discussions

Tech’s Career Conversion: Jobs That Are Going AI

Take Control of Your Career: High-Paying Remote Jobs for a Better Life!