Light shows have dazzled and captivated audiences for centuries. Drone shows, unlike fireworks or laser light shows, are not only safer and less messy but are also eco-friendly. This high-technology alternative allows precise control and versatility and is growing in popularity.
Recognizing the benefits that drones offer, a growing number of organizations are putting on spectacular light shows during corporate events and incentive trips. Taking advantage of recent advancements in technology, drone light shows have become a breathtaking addition to these occasions, offering memorable experiences.
Since drone light show popularity is on the rise, it is imperative to know the essential details you must consider when using them. This informative guide is a great starting point.
TECHNOLOGY BEHIND DRONE LIGHT SHOWS
Drone light shows are aerial displays executed by choreographing a fleet of drones to perform intricate animations, formations, and patterns. Each unmanned aircraft is equipped with LED lights in varying colors.
The advanced technology that powers drones utilizes a central computer system that coordinates the drones’ movements. This system plays a critical role in not only maintaining a safe distance from other drones but also in avoiding spectators and other people who might be in the area. It also allows the drones to carry out the designs created by animators.
Specialized animators design the display as part of planning the light show. These experts ensure the images produced are distinguishable and pleasing, with the drones taking their cues based on the animators’ designs.
WHY DRONES ARE BECOMING A POPULAR OPTION
The technology that powers drones gives their light shows several appealing benefits:
Better Customization
Working with designers, you can customize every detail of the presentation, from beginning to end. Think about how powerful imagery would be to attendees. You could incorporate your company logo, colors, theme elements for your event, and much more.
Limitless Artistic Possibilities
Both fireworks and laser light shows are limited in the designs they can create. LED-equipped drones, on the other hand, are virtually unlimited in this area. They can create just about any visual effects imaginable, and they do so in precise detail.
More Environmentally Friendly
Drone light shows do not emit any soot or smoke, nor do they cause noise pollution. Their LED lights are long-lasting and the electric batteries that power them do not release greenhouse gases or other problematic particulates. And, unlike fireworks, drones can be reused time and time again.
Fewer Safety Regulations
Fireworks and laser light shows have more safety regulations associated with their productions and are limited to where they can take place. Drone light shows, on the other hand, are more versatile and able to push the boundaries of choreographed lighting experiences.
INCORPORATING DRONES INTO CORPORATE EVENTS
Drone light shows offer great potential to elevate offsite meetings and incentive trips. They add a touch of innovation, spectacle, and flair.
Offsite Meetings
- Inspiring opening and closing ceremonies
- Visual storytelling to reinforce storytelling and keep it engaging
- Ice-breaking entertainment during networking sessions
Incentive Trips
- Memorable experiences that positively affect travelers’ attitude towards the company
- Bonding with teammates through sharing an awe-inspiring, unique experience
ORGANIZING DRONE LIGHT SHOWS
As with any type of presentation, it is essential to carry out an effective game plan when organizing drone light shows. Key factors to account for include the following:
Figure Out the Budget
While drone light shows are cost-effective overall, large-scale versions are priced significantly differently than their smaller-scale counterparts. By preparing a comprehensive and realistic budget, you make your team better equipped to plan a show that fits into it.
Select a Drone-Friendly Venue
Drone light shows are aerial displays – meaning you need a venue that can accommodate such a display. An outdoor venue is a requirement, of course, but you must also confirm that they have enough space to safely fly over the property. Drone operators can determine whether a venue is suitable for the size and scale of the show in question.
Vet Drone Operator Qualifications
Speaking of drone operators, it is critical to vet their necessary qualifications, licenses, and certifications. Operating a drone correctly and safely requires a certain level of training and experience. While drones are capable of some automated direction (as mentioned above), they still depend on a qualified operator to carry out mission-critical tasks that require human logic and quick thinking.
Make sure that any operators you consider are professional, Part 107 licensed drone pilots who have undergone extensive training. In addition to flying the drones, they work closely with programmers and designers to ensure the show goes well and that attendees are safe.
PRO TIP: Since the majority of drone light shows are done at night, make sure drone operators have a Part 107.29 license.
Hire an Animation Team
Some drone operators have in-house animators. If you hire a company that does not, you will need to find an animation team. You might be able to get recommendations from the drone operation company. This is your best option, as they are well-versed in the qualifications that animators should possess.
If your drone operators cannot recommend any animation teams, prioritize animators who have many years of experience specifically in the drone industry. Creating drone light show designs is a very different matter than designing for other mediums.
Rehearse the Show
Much like you should rehearse any event, rehearsing a drone light show is crucial. Assemble all the players together at the chosen venue prior to the day of the show. Direct them to perform a run-through of the entire presentation. This gives the teams ample opportunity to identify and correct any issues that might arise.
Commercial Drone Regulations
National drone laws were updated as recently as 2020 and published in the 2020 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). (1) Part 107 covers the majority of sUAS flights for commercial drone use – including day and night flight operations, flying drones that weigh less than 55 pounds, operating drones at speeds less than 100 mph, and flying drones below 400 feet.
These regulations pertain to commercial drone flights executed in the United States. If your offsite meeting or incentive trip is taking place in a different country, you will need to look up the laws in that country.
REAL-LIFE EXAMPLES OF SUCCESSFUL DRONE LIGHT SHOWS
Still not fully convinced that you can pull off a successful drone light show? Use these examples as inspiration:
- Intel has become known for large-scale shows that often feature over 100 drones and are leveraged for product launches and corporate branding efforts. (2)
- In May 2023, US Bank incorporated a drone light show into the annual event it holds to celebrate high-performing employees. (3)
- Organizations frequently put on drone light shows that advertise events like a product launch or recognition of high performers at their company. (4)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DRONE LIGHT SHOWS
Are drone light shows safe?
Proper planning by qualified drone operators and adherence to space requirements make drone light shows quite safe. Hiring the right professionals and rehearsing the run-of-show at the venue greatly decreases any potential risks.
How long does it take to organize a drone light show?
The entire process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Each show is different in terms of the lead time you need. It is essential to allocate plenty of time to developing the concept, programming the drones, planning logistics, and correcting errors.
How do weather conditions impact drone light shows?
Since these shows are held outside, adverse weather conditions – or even just a particularly windy day – can necessitate postponing or canceling the presentation. Regulations forbid drone operators to fly drones during severe weather like heavy rain, lightning or strong winds. Monitor the weather forecast leading up to the day of the show and come up with a plan B in case you must cancel the light show.
PRO TIP: When reviewing your contract with your drone light show vendors, pay special attention to clauses that relate to weather and cancellation policies.
Is it possible to enhance drone shows with other forms of entertainment?
A dance performance, music, or multimedia display can make a drone light show even more immersive and unforgettable than it is alone. Qualified, highly experienced drone operators will know how to choreograph multiple elements to ensure they work together in perfect harmony.
How many drones can you use in a light show?
The number depends on the desired scale of the show, air space regulations for the venue, and the budget allocated to the performance. The grander the show, and the more airspace available, the more drones you can fly. Complexity also affects the number, with more drones required for more complex displays.
How long does it take to set up a drone light show?
Setting up a show of this nature can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. It depends on factors like how many drones are in the show, how complex the performance is, and whether you are combining it with any other forms of entertainment. Coordinate with your drone operators and venue to ensure you schedule enough time for setup and breakdown.
ILLUMINATE THE SKIES – AND INSPIRE ATTENDEES
Incorporating drone light shows into corporate events, incentive trips, and offsite meetings can elevate the overall experience and leave a lasting impression on attendees. As technology continues to advance, the possibilities for creating stunning aerial displays are endless – making drones a valuable addition to engaging entertainment options.
Want to set up a travel incentive or offsite meeting program that leaves a lasting impression on attendees? Contact Gavel International to learn more about our advanced expertise in these areas.
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SOURCE(S):
1 https://www.dartdrones.com/faa-drone-regulations-commercial-drone-use/
2 https://www.fastcompany.com/90179570/intel-bringing-its-famous-drone-light-shows-indoors
3 https://pixisdrones.com/shows/events/legends-of-possible-drone-light-show
4 https://confetti.design/boosting-brand-visibility-with-drone-light-shows-for-events/
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