Drone vs. Traditional Videography: Which is Better for Event Coverage?
By Damon Johnson, Founder of Raising Drones
Alright, let’s settle a question that pops up almost every time I meet with a client: “Should we hire a videographer, or can a drone handle it all?”
It’s a great question. And the answer, like most good things in life, depends on what you’re aiming to capture. I’ve spent years in the drone world, filming everything from weddings and music festivals to real estate tours and corporate events. Trust me when I say—both traditional videography and drones have their strengths. But knowing when and how to use them? That’s the real secret sauce.
Why Traditional Videography Still Matters
Traditional videographers are like the steady hands of event coverage. They’ve been around long before drones hit the skies, and they know how to tell a story from the ground up—literally.
Need a close-up of the groom’s reaction during the vows? Want to catch the happy tears on a parent’s face during the speech? Traditional cameras are built for that. They focus on the details, the emotions, the interactions—the stuff you might miss if you're only watching from the sky.
Not to mention, they come with solid audio setups. So if you’re hoping to capture a heartfelt toast or a live performance, your camera-on-the-ground team has you covered.
Why Drones Are Changing the Game
Now let’s talk about the birds-eye view.
Drones aren’t just trendy—they’re seriously useful. They give you the kind of sweeping, cinematic shots that ground cameras can’t touch. Picture an aerial view of your entire wedding venue, a drone following a newlywed couple through a field, or a music festival crowd bouncing to the beat. That’s the kind of drama and wow-factor drones bring to the table.
And here’s a bonus: drones are quick to set up, easy to move around, and far more affordable than old-school aerial options like cranes or helicopters. In fact, most of our clients are surprised at how much coverage we can get in such a short amount of time. It’s like getting movie-quality footage without the Hollywood budget.
How They Work Together
Now, here’s the good part—you don’t have to choose.
Some of the best event coverage we’ve done at Raising Drones came from teaming up with traditional videographers. While they’re capturing those personal, emotional close-ups, we’re in the air showing off the whole setting. Think of it like having two storytellers: one up close and personal, the other painting the big picture.
That combination gives your final video an unbeatable depth. You get all the feels and all the flair.
Worried about how it all works together? Don’t be. We coordinate directly with your photo and video team to make sure we’re not buzzing over someone’s speech or blocking any important shots. Our job is to make their job easier—and your final product better.
When a Drone Might Not Be Ideal
As much as I love drones (and I really do), I’ve got to be honest—they’re not perfect for every situation.
If your event is indoors with low ceilings, or in a location that has flying restrictions (like near airports or government buildings), drones might not be allowed or safe to fly. Also, if you're expecting clean audio from a quiet moment, like vows or speeches, a drone buzzing overhead is not exactly subtle.
That’s why we always scout the location, check the rules, and make sure we’re using the right tools for the job. It’s not just about showing up and flying—it’s about planning smart and capturing your event the right way.
Final Thoughts: Why It All Comes Down to Vision
At the end of the day, what matters most is the story you want to tell. Do you want your guests to relive the small, emotional moments? Do you want to showcase the grand setting and scale of your event? Or—like most people—do you want a bit of both?
If you’re just starting to explore what’s possible, we’ve got your back. At Raising Drones, we help people figure out the best way to capture their events—whether that’s from the ground, the sky, or both. And we do it in a way that’s simple, smooth, and actually fun.
So, no need to stress over which is “better.” Think about what you want your final video to feel like. Think about the vibe, the shots, the memories. Then let us help you bring that vision to life.
Let’s capture something unforgettable—together.
Drones. Cameras. Big moments. We’re here for all of it.
See you in the skies,
Damon Johnson
Founder, Raising Drones