Crafting a Breathtaking Flag Ceremony at the iconing 'Castle on the Hill'

During the COVID-19 lockdowns, the International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS) faced a challenge: how to uphold the tradition of their graduation ceremony, including the iconic flag procession, in a virtual format. The ICMS turned to Digital Video Experts for a solution, and we rose to the occasion with a creative and innovative approach. I proposed a pre-recorded flag procession that combined dynamic drone aerial shots with stable ground gimbal shots. The project was ambitious, requiring precision and coordination under tight constraints. The shoot was scheduled on a sweltering 35-degree day and had to be completed within a mere 45-minute window. Despite the intense heat and limited time, my team and I were committed to delivering a high-quality product. The process involved multiple retakes, with each flag bearer needing to march in exactly the same way for every take to ensure seamless continuity. This required precise synchronization and attention to detail, especially when coordinating the drone's movements with the flag bearers' steps. My expertise in drone operations and videography was crucial in capturing the perfect angles and ensuring that each shot aligned flawlessly with the others. Despite the challenging conditions, the final result was nothing short of breathtaking. The aerial shots provided a grand, sweeping perspective that highlighted the significance of the ceremony, while the ground shots added a personal and intimate touch. The seamless integration of these elements created a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience for the graduates and their families, who were unable to attend the ceremony in person. This project demonstrated not only my technical skills as a drone operator but also my ability to work under pressure, coordinate complex tasks, and deliver exceptional results. The success of the ICMS virtual graduation ceremony stands as a testament to my dedication, precision, and creativity in the field of drone videography.