In September 1962, the first episode of the Space Age cartoon The Jetsons aired on prime time television. It became a beloved program because people could relate to the typical family featured in the show. But what really grabbed the attention of viewers were the futuristic predictions the show presented. The Jetsons dealt daily with things like video calls, advanced robotics, and smartwatches. In 1989, Robert Zemeckis released the sequel to his hit Back to the Future, Back to the Future II, another film that speculated on what the future might hold. Set in 1985, the main character has to time-travel to 2015 where he encounters things like augmented reality games, tablet computers, and hoverboards.

Many of the predictions made in The Jetsons and Back to the Future II have become a reality today. Both also featured a concept that is currently changing the filmmaking industry: drone technology. Inexpensive, easy-to-operate drones with incredible cameras have disrupted the way videos and photographs are taken. A professional camera used on a Hollywood film set, such as an IMAX camera, can cost upwards of $16,000 a week. A DJI Mavic Pro 3 drone, a favorite among professional photographers, can be purchased complete with accessories for less than $4,000.

For the most part, Hollywood is not giving up its expensive cameras, but more and more directors are utilizing drone technology in some aspect. In 2006’s Miami Vice, director Michael Mann used a drone to film part of a chase scene at Sammy Creek Landing in the Florida Keys. One of the most talked-about instances of a drone being used to film a movie was in the 2012 James Bond installment, Skyfall, directed by Sam Mendes.

Sam Mendes used a drone to capture the rugged Scottish Highlands in Glencoe, showing breathtaking vistas that help set the tone of the scene. But even more groundbreaking was his use of a drone to capture unique perspectives during a high-action scene. As Daniel Craig’s character, James Bond, chases a “bad guy” through Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, a drone swiftly follows alongside him, capturing the action. Mendes’ use of the drone allows the audience to feel like they are right there in the heart of the action. This was a pivotal moment for the drone industry because it was the first time a drone was used in such a manner for a big Hollywood production.

In 2016, director Liam Young’s short film took drone cinematography to the next level. As stated on the film’s IMDb page, “In the Robot Skies is the world’s first narrative shot entirely through autonomous drones. In collaboration with the Embedded and Artificially Intelligent Vision Lab in Belgium, the film has evolved in relation to their experiments with specially developed camera drones, each programmed with their own cinematic rules and behaviors.” In the Robot Skies not only uses drones for filming but also makes them central characters in the narrative.

These are just a few examples of how Hollywood has embraced drone culture. Today, drones are featured as subjects in countless films and television shows of all genres. Drones are being used behind the scenes in even more projects to create stunning and engaging images too. In June 2024, an announcement was made that drone operators would now be represented under the International Cinematographers Guild (IATSE) Local 600 union.

In a memo to The Hollywood Reporter, IATSE Local 600 national executive director Alex Tonisson said, “The decision reaffirms that drone cinematography on feature films and television productions is Local 600 covered work. It’s gratifying to see the industry recognizing our members as the most highly trained professionals in their field.” The inclusion of drone operators in the Local 600 union means that they will be eligible for better pay options, pensions, and health benefits. It further legitimizes the presence of drones in the television and film industry.

These examples highlight how drones have not only revolutionized cinematography but have also become integral to storytelling in modern film and television. Today, drones are not merely tools for capturing aerial shots or intricate chase sequences; they are essential narrative devices that immerse audiences in new perspectives and enhance the visual language of storytelling. As Hollywood continues to innovate, integrating drones into its repertoire signifies a shift towards more dynamic and immersive cinematic experiences. With drone operators now recognized within the esteemed ranks of the IATSE Local 600 union, the industry acknowledges their expertise and contributions. This unionization not only ensures better working conditions and benefits for drone operators but also solidifies their role as indispensable collaborators in shaping the future of visual storytelling.

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