Aerial photography

[TheJDMan]

I recently purchased a 3D Robotics Iris+ quad copter as an aerial platform for my GoPro for filming video and pictures. Among other features it has a "Follow Me" mode where it will follow and keep the camera pointed at the subject. It then flys completely autonomusly around the subject as the subject moves. It occurs to me that this might make a very compelling autocross video filming platform. My question, is do you veteran autocrossers think this drone would be allowed to film at an autocross event? I would love to get some opinions and feedback about using this to film autocross runs.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDTareOXljU&feature=player_detailpage

[Yelcamino]

I read about these "follow me" drones and wondered if they could move fast enough to keep up with a car on an autox. It would be interesting to see.

[lzdick]

It more than likely wouldn't be allowed at an event hosted at an airfield. The FAA would probably frown on that.

[Schwartz Performance]

It really depends on the guy organizing the event. Some are totally against stuff like that, others may allow it.
Many people who aren't familiar with the copters think that the batteries will go out and it'll fall on a car or in the path, creating a problem. I know ARS Promotions had one filming at the Heidts Performance Car Challenge last year, but it didn't follow the cars. It was at one spot in the air and rotated as needed.

-Dale

[TheJDMan]

I agree, air fields would be a no go. I also wondered if it would be too slow to follow a car. It was just a thought.