Aerial Videos & Gyros

So recently we had the opportunity to do some aerial filming in Argentina and the Northwest Territories. The team was perplexed as to how we could achieve the best footage possible. As we did a little research we stumbled upon an article written by world renowned photographer & cinematographer Vincent Laforet, detailing his experiences with aerial shooting. His rig consisted of gyros manufactured by Kenyon Laboratories and a mounting kit from Blue Sky Aerials; two companies that specialize in professional aerial photography/video equipment.

Though most video footage out there is produced with large professional cameras, we have seen very little aerial work done with DSLR's such as the Canon 5D Mark II and Canon 7d (the cameras we primarily use). Upon further research we felt that the gyros and rigs offered by Kenyon Laboratories and Blue Sky Aerials were by far the best choice and went with the Gyro KS-8 system. 

When we received the system from Blue Sky Aerials and Kenyon Laboratories we hooked it up, jumped onto the back of an SUV, with the hatch up, and started driving around. The system takes some time to get used to, but once you have a handle of it, it's incredible to shoot with. Even with all the typical car vibration and movement, the gyros provided surprisingly smooth footage, especially when spinning up to speed.  

The real test took place on the shoot when I harnessed myself into the helicopter with the doors wide open and lifted off into the air. Though surprisingly often overlooked, it's incredibly important to have a high quality/proper harness when shooting out of a moving helicopter, DUH. Luckily, I had a lot of help from the people at Yates Gear; they helped me pick the appropriate harness for my size, weight, and situation. Generally the harness would attach to three points on the helicopter, but this can slightly differ based on the particular model. 

But I have to say, the feeling of being in the air and filming is exhilarating, it is something that always gets me juiced up to film. As my legs and my body leaned out of the helicopter, I was immediately surprised by the amount of vibration produced by the chopper, as well as the incredibly strong winds. I soon realized how difficult a situation this would be if I did not have the gyros. To show you the difference in the stabilization I had Stan shoot behind me handheld over my shoulder as a comparison. You can see in the example below the amount of vibration throughout his shot, especially when compared to the footage off the Gyro KS-8 rig. 

I also found out soon enough that the helicopter pilot is your best friend. The communication between you and the pilot, and his/her expertise, goes hand-in-hand with the results you need. The Gyro system is heavy and not that maneuverable in the air. So to achieve certain angles and shots, a lot of communication is needed between you and the pilot. This is key, not only to get the best possible shots, but also for the pilot to keep the helicopter safe for everyone onboard. 

All in all I am very pleased with the performance of the Canon 5D Mark II and Gyro KS-8 system. Being up in the air, feeling the wind rush through me, composing the shot and seeing the beautiful smooth footage is an experience like no other, an experience I suggest all cinematographers to undertake. 

I can't wait to get in the air again!

Keith