It’s hard to watch anything these days without the influence of drone footage. What was once a novelty have now found themselves in the mainstream of TV programming, films and also sports event coverage, with their ability to capture thrilling footage from the skies. As these flying cameras become ever more sophisticated, they are increasingly being deployed at sporting events, offering angles and perspectives previously unimaginable for TV audiences.
So, how exactly did we get to this point and what does the future hold for the use of drones in sport? Below, we’ll look at how the fan experience is benefitting from unprecedented views and how broadcasters can continue to find innovative ways to engage their audience.
Advancements in Drone Technology
Drones have become a crucial part of broadcasting for sport thanks to their capability, far beyond those of cheaper high street versions that are great for short videos and photos. Modern drones are equipped with advanced stabilisers and high-resolution cameras capable of capturing crisp, clear images from great heights and speeds. Enhancements in battery life and live-streaming capabilities allow for extended coverage of events without interruptions too.
These features enable drones to perform intricate manoeuvres and provide live feeds directly to broadcast centres at high quality, offering a seamless viewing experience. As drone tech advances, it broadens the scope of how sports can be filmed and has made aerial coverage more accessible and effective for events of all scales. This is all done whilst the size of drones becomes smaller, making them much easier to transport and use whilst also reducing the cost.
Enhancing Viewer Experience
Sports coverage of the past relied heavily on fixed points of broadcast or even the use of helicopters for aerial shots, but drones provide another dimension making this much easier. They offer a unique vantage point that significantly enhances the viewer experience at sports events. By flying above the action, drones capture dynamic aerial shots and angles that traditional ground-based cameras cannot achieve.
This capability is particularly transformative in sports such as golf, where they track the trajectory of long drives, or in marathon races, providing expansive views of the runners’ route. During football matches, drones can hover close to the action such as during a penalty shootout, offering a bird’s-eye view that brings fans closer to tactical plays and the overall excitement of the game.
These innovative perspectives not only enrich the viewing experience but also add a layer of depth to sports analysis, allowing fans to appreciate the complexities of their favourite sport and the athlete’s skills in unprecedented detail. Take athletics, for example, with drones able to keep up with runners during a 100m race, or javelin throws without falling behind. For coaches, this can be ideal for deeper analysis when used alongside other emerging technologies.
Smart performance running tracks from companies like Feldspar are a best-in-class solution that is the next stage of current wearable technology. It means there is potential for real-time insights and feedback that can be used during overlays of drone footage, both during live broadcasts and for training purposes.
Operational Advantages for Broadcasters
Drones provide broadcasters with substantial operational advantages, primarily in terms of cost efficiency and flexibility. Unlike traditional camera setups that require extensive rigging and can be costly, drones are relatively inexpensive and can be deployed quickly to capture footage from multiple angles.
This agility allows broadcasters to adapt in the moment to different event requirements without the need for extensive manpower or equipment relocation. Drones can also access areas that might be logistically challenging or impossible for human camera operators, such as over water sports or mountainous terrains. This versatility not only reduces setup times and costs but also enhances the broadcaster’s ability to cover more events with greater detail and fewer resources.
Drones Will Continue To Change Sports Coverage
Now that the use of drones is prevalent in sports, they will continue to set new standards in broadcasting, offering cost-effective, dynamic, and immersive coverage that enhances both operational efficiency and the fan experience. The potential for drones to transform sports even further is huge. As the technology advances, expect to see drones offer even more thrilling ways to entertain sports fans.