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The Flight Log provides an in-depth look at AIRWOLF Drones' work in aerial cinematography. Featuring behind-the-scenes breakdowns, client highlights, press features, and technical insights, it showcases the precision and expertise that go into every job.

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Polestar 3 LED Headlight
Polestar 3

Electric Power Meets California Coastline: Filming Polestar 3 commercial

Earlier this year, we had the chance to film the new Polestar 3 a beautifully designed, all-electric performance SUV that’s making waves for all the right reasons. To bring this high-end vehicle to life on camera, we hit the road for Pismo Beach, California, with a fleet of drones and a sharp creative team in tow.


Pismo’s coastal and rugged cliffs gave us a dramatic backdrop that perfectly contrasted the Polestar 3’s clean Scandinavian lines. Between the surf, the sand, and the shifting skies, we knew we had something special.


The Polestar 3 cruising through Pismo, California
The Polestar 3 cruising through Pismo, California

Gear Check: Inspire 3 and FPV Drones: Filming the New Polestar 3 with DJI Inspire 3 and FPV in Pismo Beach

For this shoot, we relied heavily on the DJI Inspire 3, which delivered buttery-smooth 8K footage and handled the changing wind and lighting conditions like a pro. It was perfect for wide reveals, beachside tracking shots, and showcasing the Polestar’s elegant form from the sky.

We also deployed our FPV drones to capture dynamic, visceral angles. These nimble setups let us fly low and fast zipping through dunes, orbiting the vehicle, and even tracking a surfer over the water during a rare break in the clouds. That sequence became one of our favorite shots of the day.





Collaborating Behind the Scenes

Drone Pilot Wolfgang Weber and Aerial Cam OP Black Sail Media operating the Dji Inspire 3 in Pismo California
(Left) Aerial Dp: Black Sail Media (Right) Drone Pilot: Wolfgang Weber

One of the reasons this shoot came together so seamlessly was the incredible team behind it. We had the opportunity to collaborate with Modern Luxury and Black Sail Media, whose creative direction and sharp visual instincts pushed us to elevate every frame. Their team came in with a clear vision and a strong aesthetic sensibility, which made aligning our aerial work with the overall look and feel of the campaign a natural fit.


Having Allie King producing on set helped keep the entire day running smoothly. With unpredictable weather, moving vehicles, and tight windows of natural light, production days like this require flexibility and focus. Allie brought both, creating a grounded and upbeat atmosphere that helped the entire crew stay in sync and on pace from first setup to final shot.






Dealing with the Elements: Fog, Rain & Golden Light

Filming along the California coast is always a gamble, and Pismo Beach didn’t make it easy. We had everything from rain and thick marine layer to sudden breaks of golden sunlight. Conditions changed by the minute, forcing us to stay light on our feet and constantly revise flight plans.

The Inspire 3 handled coastal wind and low visibility with ease, and our FPV pilots stayed sharp through every condition. Despite the challenges, the shifting skies actually added a layer of texture and mood to the final visuals that we couldn’t have planned better.



Polestar 3: A Look Toward the Future

Filming along the California coast is always a gamble, and Pismo Beach didn’t make it easy. We had everything from rain and a thick marine layer to sudden breaks of golden sunlight. Conditions changed by the minute, forcing us to stay light on our feet and constantly revise flight plans. But that unpredictability became part of the story.


Filming the new Polestar 3 with DJI Inspire 3 and FPV in Pismo Beach meant adapting in real time, and our gear and team delivered. The Inspire 3 handled coastal wind and low visibility with ease, while our FPV pilots stayed sharp through every shift in weather. Despite the challenges, the ever-changing skies added texture, mood, and drama to the final visuals that we couldn’t have planned better.


Polestar 3 in Pismo Beach, California
Polestar 3 in Pismo Beach California

Closing Thoughts: EVs, Drones, and Coastal Cinematics

At AIRWOLF, we believe in capturing energy, not just images. Whether it's an all-electric SUV cutting through the surf, or a drone racing a wave beside a surfer, our goal is always to push creative limits while staying true to the story.


Thanks to Modern Luxury, Black Sail Media, and Allie King for trusting us to help bring this one to life.


Want to see the gear we use on set? Check out our curated selection of drones, accessories, and filmmaking essentials on our Amazon Store.


2026 Subaru Outback driving through a desert landscape, dust trailing behind. Roof rack holds camping gear. Sunlit terrain with distant mountains in the background.
2026 Subaru Outback FPV Drone Shot

The all-new 2026 Subaru Outback demands a bold introduction, and AIRWOLF Drones was honored to help make it happen. For the fourth time, we partnered with Subaru and director Anthony Dias to create a visually stunning commercial shot in the dramatic landscape of Utah. With a DJI Inspire 3 and FPV drones in hand, we brought power, motion, and adventure to life, just in time for the vehicle’s debut at the New York Auto Show.


Our Fourth Time Working with Subaru, and It Keeps Getting Better

It’s always a good day when Subaru is on the call sheet. Over the years, we've developed a creative rhythm with their team Damon Productions, and each project feels like an invitation to raise the bar. This fourth commercial was no exception, it challenged us creatively and technically, while letting us showcase what drone technology can really do.



Collaborating Again with Director Anthony Dias

Working with Anthony Dias is a masterclass in visual storytelling. He approaches every project with a clear and intentional vision, knowing exactly how each frame should feel and flow. What makes Anthony truly stand out is his ability to communicate that vision while giving us the creative freedom to fly with purpose. Over the course of several Subaru commercials, we’ve built a strong foundation of trust and collaboration. That trust allows us to push boundaries, experimenting with bold camera movements, dynamic energy shifts, and creative angles that elevate each scene. With Anthony at the helm, every aerial shot becomes part of a larger narrative, not just a beautiful image.



Dji Inspire 3 hovering
Dji Inspire 3

DJI Inspire 3 and FPV: The Gear Behind the Outback Shoot

Filming the 2026 Subaru Outback with DJI Inspire 3 allowed us to achieve dynamic hero shots and landscape reveals, taking full advantage of its 8K 60fps capabilities and advanced dual capablities. To capture the raw energy of the Outback in motion, we paired it with agile FPV drones, perfect for chasing the car through winding roads and tight curves. This dual-drone approach gave the production a unique cinematic feel that would be hard to achieve any other way.



Drone Pilot Wolfgang Weber making a repair on an fpv drone
Drone Pilot: Wolfgang Weber soldering on location in Utah

When Things Go Wrong on Set: Backup Drones and Quick Fixes

Even the most prepared crews run into tech issues—and this shoot was no exception. Early in the day, our alpha FPV quad suddenly stopped responding, and to make things worse, our Crossfire system wouldn’t connect. With no time to troubleshoot, we made the call to switch to our bravo FPV drone to keep production moving. It wasn’t our primary rig, but it got the job done and allowed us to finish flying for the day.

Later, after reviewing the gear, we discovered the culprit: a pulled wire from the flight controller. A quick solder job got us back in business for the next day of shooting. It’s a reminder that in high-pressure, on-location shoots, having backup drones and a calm, problem-solving mindset is just as critical as having the right camera package.


Behind the scenes



Filming in Utah in January: Cold Without Snow

Utah’s rugged terrain was the ideal backdrop, but winter gave us some curveballs. Despite expecting snow, we were met with dry, frozen conditions, and temperatures that dropped well below freezing. The cold affected everything from our drone batteries to pilot dexterity, but we adapted with extra gear prep, battery warmers, and a “get-it-done” mindset. In the end, the conditions helped us capture a raw, authentic look that matched the Outback’s spirit.


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New York International Auto

Premiering the 2026 Outback at the New York Auto Show

After weeks of shooting and post, the final commercial premiered at the New York Auto Show, Subaru’s biggest stage for unveiling their latest innovation. Seeing our drone footage help set the tone for a national campaign is one of the most rewarding parts of the job. It reminds us that these aren’t just car commercials, they’re cinematic moments tied to real-world excitement.



Why Drones Like the DJI Inspire 3 Are Essential for Car Commercials

Drones are no longer just “nice to have”, they're essential for storytelling in the automotive space. With the DJI Inspire 3, we can deliver Hollywood-quality footage without cranes, jibs, or helicopters. And with FPV, we unlock perspectives that give the audience a front-row seat to performance. This project proved once again that drones aren’t a trend, they’re the future of filmmaking.



Wolfgang Weber and Rob Watt smile for a selfie in a canyon. They're wearing sunglasses and jackets. Bright sunlight and rocky landscape in the background.
Aerial Dp: Rob Watt (Left) Drone Pilot: Wolfgang Weber (Right)

Pushing Limits with the 2026 Subaru Outback

From the icy backroads of Utah to the bright lights of the New York Auto Show, filming the 2026 Subaru Outback was a journey of grit, precision, and passion. Every frame captured reflected not just the capabilities of the Outback, but the dedication of a team committed to excellence, even in the face of extreme conditions and tight turnarounds. We’re proud to work with brands like Subaru, visionary directors like Anthony Dias, and top-tier production crews like Damon Productions team, who all share a belief in the power of drone cinematography to tell bold, compelling stories. When creativity, technology, and trust align, incredible things happen. Wherever the next road leads, AIRWOLF will be ready to fly higher, faster, and more creatively than ever before.








A COLLECTION OF OUR FAVORITE SHOTS


See the live reveal of the all-new 2026 Outack and Outback Wilderness


Want to see the gear we use on set? Check out our curated selection of drones, accessories, and filmmaking essentials on our Amazon Store.


2025 Tampa Bay Derby - Drone Camera view
2025 Tampa Bay Derby - Drone Camera

The Tampa Bay Derby is one of the premier prep races for the Kentucky Derby, drawing top contenders and a nationwide audience eager to see which thoroughbreds will emerge as serious contenders. This year, Tampa Bay Downs took a historic step by incorporating a live drone feed into their broadcast for the first time. While drones have been used in live sports coverage before, this marked the first time a drone was integrated into the Tampa Bay Derby broadcast, offering a new and dynamic perspective for viewers.

With just days to prepare, we were called in to execute this groundbreaking addition to the production. The challenge was clear, deliver seamless, high-quality aerial footage in real-time for one of the most high-stakes horse races of the season.


A Last-Minute Decision That Elevated Broadcasting the Tampa Bay Derby with DJI Inspire 3 for the first time.

Tampa Bay Downs made the game-time decision to include drone coverage just days before the event. While integrating aerial footage into a live broadcast is no small task, our team specializes in high-speed, high-pressure environments. We immediately mobilized, knowing that proper preparation was key to ensuring a flawless execution on race day.


Roof top flying at Tampa Bay Downs
Roof top flying at Tampa Bay Downs

Pre-Event Testing: The Key to a Flawless Broadcast


Testing video feeds from the drone at Tampa Bay Downs
Video Test Day

When working with live broadcasts, there is zero room for error. A drone feed must be perfectly synchronized with the production team’s workflow, ensuring there are no signal dropouts, lag, or interference issues. That’s why we arrived early to conduct essential pre-event testing at Tampa Bay Downs.

Pre-event testing allowed us to:

  • Optimize our video transmission to ensure a stable, uninterrupted feed to the production room.

  • Determine the best flight paths to capture the most compelling angles while avoiding restricted areas and flying over crowds.

  • Coordinate with the production team to ensure smooth integration with existing camera feeds

By running these tests ahead of time, we mitigated risks and ensured that when the gates opened, our drone was ready to deliver a seamless aerial perspective.





Overcoming Unique Challenges at Tampa Bay Downs


Passing our equipment through the roof access point
Passing our equipment through the roof access point

Every drone project comes with unique logistical challenges. At Tampa Bay Downs, the best launch point for our drone was on the venue’s roof, a location that provided an unobstructed view of the track and the ability to follow the race from start to finish. However, getting our DJI Inspire 3 and all necessary equipment to the rooftop was easier said than done.

The only access point was via a ladder, requiring careful maneuvering to safely transport the drone, batteries, controllers, and monitoring equipment. Once everything was secured, the elevated position allowed us to execute dynamic tracking shots that gave viewers an unprecedented perspective of the race.


Why We Chose the DJI Inspire 3 for the Job


Dji Inspire 3 at the 2025 Tampa Bay Derby
Dji Inspire 3

Capturing a high-speed, high-stakes event like the Tampa Bay Derby requires a drone that is fast, reliable, and capable of delivering broadcast-quality footage in real time. 


The DJI Inspire 3 was the ideal choice for this project, thanks to its:


  • Full-frame camera, and variable lens options providing clarity and detail, even at high speeds.


  • Superior maneuverability, allowing us to track horses in motion with smooth, precision.


  • Reliable low-latency video transmission, ensuring a stable feed for the live broadcast




With these capabilities, the Inspire 3 allowed us to capture the speed, power, and drama of the Tampa Bay Derby in a way never seen before.


A Game-Changer for Horse Racing Broadcasts

The successful integration of a live drone feed into the Tampa Bay Derby broadcast proved that aerial cinematography is more than just a novelty, it’s a powerful tool for enhancing live sports coverage. The sweeping overhead shots, dynamic tracking angles, and immersive race footage added an entirely new dimension to the viewing experience, giving fans a closer look at the action than ever before.


While we're certainly not the first company to incorporate drones into live sports broadcasting, we are proud to have been the first to broadcast the Tampa Bay Derby with the DJI Inspire 3 for the first time. This milestone highlights the expanding role of drone technology in professional sports coverage and sets a new standard for future events looking to enhance their broadcasts with dynamic aerial perspectives.


Live drone cam view of Tampa Bay Downs
Live Drone Cam view

Tampa Bay Downs - Derby Day - American Flag
Tampa Bay Downs - Derby Day

Why AIRWOLF Drones is the Right Team for Your Next Live Event

Drone Pilot Wolfgang Weber (Left) Aerial Camera Black Sail Media (Right)
Drone Pilot Wolfgang Weber (Left) Aerial Camera Black Sail Media (Right)

At AIRWOLF Drones, we specialize in capturing fast-paced, high-intensity action with unmatched cinematic quality. Whether it’s horse racing, motorsports, or live event broadcasting, our team is experienced in delivering flawless drone integration that elevates the production value of any event.


For venues and production teams looking to enhance their live broadcasts with cutting-edge aerial footage, partnering with a professional drone team is essential. We at AIRWOLF have the expertise, equipment, and experience to deliver results, even on last-minute calls.







CHECK OUT OUR BEHIND THE SCENES VIDEO


Ready to take your live event coverage to the next level?

Contact AIRWOLF Drones today to discuss how we can bring an immersive aerial perspective to your next live broadcast.


Want to see the gear we use on set? Check out our curated selection of drones, accessories, and filmmaking essentials on our Amazon Store

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