Big Shot Films FAQ:

FAQ:

  • Big Shot Films specialises in delivering breathtaking licensed and insured drone aerial cinematography, High-Speed Tracking Vehicle Filming, providing various camera remote head options and technicians.

    Using “The Falcon”, our in-house custom designed and built high-speed tracking vehicle and the most experienced precision drivers in the industry, we deliver dynamic, cinematic moving camera experiences for feature films, TV series, documentaries, commercials, live events, and broadcasts.

  • We are proudly based in Cape Town, South Africa, serving local and international productions. Our fully licensed and internationally experienced crew has expertise working across diverse locations and challenging environments.

  • We operate various kinds of state-of-the-art drones like the Freefly Alta X, Freefly Alta 8, DJI Inspire 3, DJI Inspire 2, DJI Mavic 3 Pro, as well as a range of custom FPV drones and can even operate from manned helicopters when required.

    With regards to tracking vehicles, “The Falcon” is our in-house, custom-designed and built high-speed camera tracking vehicle that is paired with a range of remote camera head systems like the Freefly Movi XL, Motorcrane Titan, DJI Ronin 2, Freefly Movi Pro and Freefly Tero remote camera car.

  • Absolutely. The Falcon, operated by highly skilled precision drivers, allows us to safely execute complex vehicle sequences. Safety, precision, and cinematic excellence are our top priorities, ensuring every shot looks thrilling and professional.

  • All aerial operations are managed through either of our three fully licensed and insured SACAA ROC-holding partners:

    • Epic Air Aerial Services (ROC/ASL CAA/G1336D)

    • Heli-X Charters (ROC/ASL CAA/G1190D)

    • SKYHOOK (ROC/ASL CAA/G1229D)

    We manage all aviation flight planning, airspace approvals, and administration. Clients should provide Google Maps links or What3Word pins for all shortlisted locations to help identify areas requiring additional permissions.

    • National Key Points: A SACAA National Key Point Permit is required; film or landowner permission must be provided first.

    • Public Events: Our ROC partners secure a SACAA Public Events Permit; film or landowner permission must be supplied.

    • Private Locations: Signed landowner form, provided by Big Shot Films or one of our ROC partners.

    • Cape Town: Film applications are submitted via the City of Cape Town portal; Disaster Risk Department approvals are handled by us.

    • SANParks & Cape Nature: Drone-specific ROC applications; some areas may be restricted.

    • Cape Winelands: Applications go through Stellenbosch Municipality; additional documentation provided by us if required.

    • CBD & Port Areas: CBD approvals usually take 1–3 days

    • (V&A Waterfront is a NO FLY ZONE). Port areas require Harbour Master and SACAA approvals, typically 5–10 days.

    • One location per day is included; additional locations are billed at R900 each.

    • Standard workday is 10 hours; overtime billed unless pre-agreed in writing.

    • Recce and gear checks are billed at 50% of the crew day rate for a half-day.

    • Sundays, public holidays, and the first night of night shoots are billed at 1.5×.

    • Travel days are billed at 50% for crew, 25% for equipment.

    • Out-of-town accommodation and expenses are charged to production unless agreed otherwise.

    • Lead times for airspace permissions vary; early planning is essential.

    • Confirmation requires 50% payment upfront, with the remaining 50% due 7 days after the job.

  • Yes. All our drone aerial operations are managed through one of our three fully licensed and insured ROC holding partners and comply with all SACAA regulations.

    • Epic Air Aerial Services (ROC/ASL CAA/G1336D)

    • Heli-X Charters (ROC/ASL CAA/G1190D)

    • SKYHOOK (ROC/ASL CAA/G1229D)

  • All permissions and approvals are subject to change by governing authorities. Our team ensures compliance with the latest regulations to guarantee safe, legal, and professional aerial cinematography.