Drone Pilot (Filming)
どろーんぱいろっと（さつえい）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialist profession using drones to capture photos and videos from the air. Handles a wide range of tasks including shooting planning, flight planning, regulatory compliance, aircraft and camera operation, and data management.
Description
Drone Pilot (Filming) is a specialist who remotely operates drones to fly and capture high-quality photos and videos from the air. Plans flight routes, altitudes, and camera settings according to shooting objectives, ensures compliance with aviation laws and permit applications, and conducts safe flights. During shooting, monitors aircraft position and weather conditions while performing precise camera work such as gimbal operation and exposure/focus adjustments.
After shooting, organizes and performs initial editing of captured data, providing video and still images in the delivery format. Active in various fields such as film/TV/CM production, construction/infrastructure inspection, real estate promotion, and event filming. In addition to freelancing, commonly participates in projects at video production companies, advertising agencies, surveying/inspection firms, and broadcasting stations.
Future Outlook
With the expansion of demand for drone technology and video production, the market is growing. In addition to films and CMs, specialized piloting skills are required for diverse applications such as infrastructure inspection and disaster surveys. Even as AI and autonomous flight technologies advance, creative abilities and regulatory compliance will be key differentiators.
Personality Traits
Able to respond flexibly / Capable of creative thinking / Cautious and responsible / Curious or inquisitive
Work Style
Advertising Agency / Construction Infrastructure Inspection / Freelance / Video Production Company Employment
Career Path
Assistant Drone Pilot → Drone Operator → Senior Drone Pilot → Video Director → Freelance Independence
Required Skills
Aerial Filming Equipment Operation / Aviation Regulations Knowledge / Camera Operation / Drone Piloting / Filming Data Management
Recommended Skills
Aerial Photo Surveying / Basic Knowledge of Weather Forecasting / Photography / Video Editing
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because shooting site environments and conditions change easily. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High accuracy is needed for fine aircraft operations and image quality adjustments. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Creativity is required to devise video compositions and staging. |
| Problem Solving | Problem-solving skills are essential for dealing with weather conditions and equipment issues. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Altitude and flight data management is automated, so advanced mathematical analysis is not required. |
Related Qualifications
- JUIDA Certified Piloting Skill Certificate
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Piloting Skill Certificate (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism)
Aliases
- Aerial Filming Pilot
- Drone Filming Operator
- UAV Operator
Related Jobs
- Aerial Photographer
- Camera Operator
- Photographer
- Videographer