Frequently asked questions

The questions producers, DOPs and agencies ask us most. Something else? Get in touch.

Booking

Where are you based, and where do you work?

We’re based in Auckland and work throughout Auckland and the rest of New Zealand, from city sets to remote locations.

How much does a drone shoot cost?

It depends on the crew, kit, location and how long you need us. Get in touch with your dates and shots and we’ll send a quote.

How far ahead should we book?

As early as you can. Some permissions take time – a DOC permit for conservation land takes around five working days in green zones and longer elsewhere – so the earlier we know your locations, the better.

What happens if the weather turns?

We don’t fly in rain or in wind above 35 km/h. If a shoot is cancelled for weather before it starts, it can be rebooked at no charge. See our terms and conditions for the detail.

Crew and kit

What does a typical crew look like?

Usually a dual-operator team: a pilot flying the drone and a camera operator controlling the camera and gimbal. For long-lens work we add wireless focus control, with our focus puller or your 1st AC.

Which drones and cameras do you use?

Our main platform is the DJI Inspire 3 with the full-frame X9 camera, shooting up to 8K ProRes RAW. We also fly the DJI Mavic 3 Cine for tight spaces, and FPV drones including a dual-operator cine-lifter. A backup drone comes to every shoot. See our gear.

Which lenses are available?

DJI 24mm, 35mm, 50mm and 75mm primes, a 90mm, and a vintage Minolta 250mm, plus ND, polariser, black mist, blue streak and black hole filters.

Can you send a live feed to video village?

Yes. We bring a 19-inch Atomos Sumo monitor with HDMI and SDI inputs and outputs, so the director and DOP can watch the drone feed live.

Do you offer FPV and drone lighting?

Yes – see FPV drone and drone lighting.

Rules, permits and safety

Are you CAA certified?

Yes. Echo Valley holds a CAA Part 102 certificate, which covers flying at night, over people and property, over water and near aerodromes. More on Part 102.

Do you handle permits?

We look after the aviation side, including air traffic control clearances, and help with DOC drone permits. Landowner consent and council permits usually sit with your location manager, and we’ll work with them. Read our permits guide.

Are you insured?

Yes. We carry public liability and aviation liability insurance, plus cover for all our equipment. Certificates are available on request.

Stock footage

Do you sell stock footage?

Yes, through our sister site, Echo Stock, which has New Zealand drone footage to licence.