our FAQs

General

  • Our studio is located in Somerville, Massachusetts and services most of New England without travel fees. If you want to get us on a project that is requires a plane or a long drive then all we ask is that you pay basic travel and lodging expenses. Our grip van and passports are at the ready.

  • Video: With our expertise in narrative promotional videos, we implement different narrative techniques and powerful cinematic visuals to demonstrate your mission and values.

    Photo: We have a keen eye for framing the perfect moment that reflects composition, emotion and story. Whether we work with trained or untrained talent, our photographers know how to stage a scene and capture your brand message in an impactful and natural way that resonates with your target audience. Aerial: Drone shots are the perfect way to establish a sense of place and bring a unique perspective to your product.

    Equipment: Our studio uses the latest video production and drone equipment to deliver production quality content for every project, big or small.

  • Brand Narrative Videos take a close look at your firm, your culture and mission as storytelling is the most effective and personal way to establish that connection with your customers. By using compelling visuals and storytelling techniques, your brand builds trust and a personal relationship with your audience.

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  • Yes, we are insured for general liability up to 5 million dollars, which is required for large scale productions. We also have separate production insurance for any ground work. If you decide to book us, we will be happy to provide you with our certificate of insurance, adding your company as additionally insured.

  • Yes, all of our pilots have obtained a Part 107 license from the FAA.

Flight Operations

  • Please refer to the break down the specifics of each drone and camera in our equiptment page.

  • Safety is our paramount concern at Above Summit. We will not fly over the heads of people or in inclement weather (precipitation, high winds, etc). We also use a Visual Observer to provide an additional level of on-site safety. Our FAA Part 107 pilots are seasoned and responsible operators with experience on an array of equipment and have created safe yet incredible, innovative shots.

  • The drone must remain within the Pilot in Command's line of sight at all times, and our height ceiling is 400 feet (122 meters) by law.

  • We use LiPo rechargeable batteries to power our drones. Each battery lasts anywhere from 10-25 minutes, depending on the payload, temperature and type of aircraft. Swapping out a battery only takes a couple minutes and we always bring multiple batteries to each shoot. During a long shoot, we can also recharge batteries in our grip van.

  • 1. Our pilots must maintain a visual line of sight with the drone at all times.

    2. Maximum altitude is 400 feet above the ground or a structure. For example, if we are filming a 150 ft building, we could fly 550 ft high directly above the building.

    3. We cannot fly over the heads of people who are not directly participating in the operation.

    4. There are certain areas of restricted airspace throughout the country due to airport proximity, protected land, military areas and special events, . We have obtained authorizations for many airports but please check with us about your project’s specific location.

  • If we are unable to obtain a permit for a specific location (for example within 1 mile of Logan airport) then we hire a helicopter. Our go-to pilot is extremely talented at getting us into position to get the shots we need. Reach out to us to learn more!

  • Above Summit will handle all airspace authorizations for our work performed during your production. Our authorizations will be made with the FAA through LAANC or DroneZone. Airspace authorizations may take 24 hours to 90 days for approval.

  • No, Part 107 would not apply to operations conducted indoors. FAA rules and regulations apply to operations conducted outdoors in the National Airspace System (NAS).

  • The FAA prohibits our operations from flying over any person not directly apart of the drone crew. To achieve a desired "overhead shot," our pilot and operator may suggest an alternate flight plan that may help achieve the creative intent while not operating directly overhead. The announcement of this rule during the initial on-set safety meeting helps to position crew and actors appropriately.

Still have questions?

Use the contact form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!