Unlike what you saw in Terminator, drone light shows are not powered by artificial intelligence (like Skynet). These show drones are not self-aware and require a lot more planning and execution than one might consider. 

The process of planning a drone show is quite straightforward however, each step in it can be a bit complex; because each client and location is unique. In this blog, we have talked about each step briefly.

STRATEGY & PLANNING

Step 1: Understanding the Objectives & Aligning the Strategy

During the first step of the process, the client and our Swarm team are expected to define the objectives and goals of the show. These initial discussions may include questions like:

• What is the aim of the show?

• What message does the client want to convey via the drone light show?

• Is the show being planned for entertainment, a special occasion, or marketing?

• Is the show a part of a larger campaign or just a part of the event?

• How does the client plan on measuring its success?
  

Understanding the answers to the following questions about the main purpose and ROI metrics of the event help our team shape all subsequent decisions in the planning and strategy process.

Step 2: Site Planning & Inspection 

Given the safety concerns and logistical factors associated with drones, there are dozens of key things to consider when selecting and finalizing a site for the show.

• Airspace Regulations

• Audience Accessibility

• Weather conditions

• Power Source Availability

• Take-off & landing zones for the drone grids

• Collaboration with Local Security & Law Enforcement 

• Back-up Emergency Plans

• Obtaining approvals from several regulatory agencies

A thorough site visit and recce is also strictly practiced by our team to ensure that the conditions are suitable in the selected location. Navigating these crucial and complex procedures and processes is important for leading a successful drone light show.

However, our client doesn't have to worry about any of these details as our team of experienced professionals specializes in checking all these points - so our clients can just relax, look up & enjoy the show.

CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT

Step 3: Creative Development

All drone shows are unique like each client and demand a lot of brainstorming for the story they want to portray. So, every performance Drone Show Africa produces is custom-built to meet the very specific requirements of the client. There is also the variation in the number of drones - different clients tend to choose different fleet sizes based on their budget which can be significant. This makes it important for our art team to crush the creatives while aligning the objectives with the story, drone formations, and choreography. 

Everything needs to be in sync to evoke emotions of awe and wonder in the audience. We follow a highly iterative creative process that starts with sketching a low-definition storyboard, which evolves into prototype development design before eventually being crafted into 3D animation software.

TECHNICAL PRODUCTION

Step 4: Development of the Drone Light Show

Once the creatives are locked in, the animation sequences are imported to the drone’s flight management software using which they are assigned to create specific roles in the animation. Creating accurate paths is a crucial process that ensures the show’s success. Finally, the timing is tuned, and drone movement is synchronized for a seamless performance. Usually, such aerial performances are also accompanied by a soundtrack.   

PRE-SHOW PRODUCTION

Step 5: Site Set Up & Grid Construction

The site setup and grid construction for the drone light show can take between four hours or a few days depending on the location and scale of the show. Numerous tasks take place during the site setup, from putting up canopies for the flight crew and production to setting up the command center and generators with the relevant flight control equipment, including specialized hardware and satellite communication antennas necessary for swarm drone show flight operations.

The take-off and landing zone design setup - aka “grid” – play a critical role in the success of the show production. We usually complete the initial steps of this process including finalizing the grid location during the planning and strategy phase of the site selection and visit process. 

SHOW PRODUCTION

Step 6: Test Flights

Once the drone site is completely set up, checked, and secured, the team conducts hover tests and a rehearsal flight. Post a successful test flight, the team is ready to execute the drone show and mesmerize the audience with a magical experience.

Book a drone light show in Africa today to elevate your events!