Drones in the Audiovisual Industry:
Key Trends for 2025

Revolutionise your productions: How drones are transforming film, advertising and live events in 2025

The audiovisual industry is undergoing a transformation driven by technological innovation, with drones at the heart of this evolution.

By 2025, drone technology will be fully integrated into the audiovisual sector, thanks to advances in artificial intelligence, high-resolution cameras, and the digitalisation of production workflows. These innovations not only enhance the quality of visual content but also enable more efficient and sustainable production processes.

Market growth and commercial expansion

The global drone market is projected to reach $82.1 billion by 2025, fuelled by the rise in commercial applications. In particular, the demand for high-quality audiovisual content continues to grow, driving the widespread adoption of drones in film, television, advertising and social media production.

Key technological innovations

High-resolution imaging: The standard DJI O4 drone features a 1/2-inch image sensor capable of recording 4K video at 60fps. The Pro version includes an upgraded 1/1.3-inch sensor, enabling 4K at 120fps – perfect for ultra-smooth, cinematic footage. Both models include enhanced video transmission systems that ensure signal stability and clarity during shoots.
FPV drones with gimbals: This combination delivers stabilised action shots with fast movement – ideal for chase scenes or sports coverage. These drones can manoeuvre through tight spaces and perform complex aerial movements, offering creative angles that elevate storytelling in commercials and films.
Low-latency live streaming: With transmission latency as low as 20ms and a range of up to 10 kilometres, drones can deliver real-time visuals on set. This is critical for directors and producers overseeing shots remotely.
Compact, lightweight design: As drones become smaller and more agile without compromising image quality, they are increasingly used for indoor filming and hard-to-reach locations. The DJI O4 Air Unit exemplifies this trend.
360º cameras and VR integration: Advances in 360º imaging, combined with devices like the Meta Quest 3 VR headset, are creating more immersive experiences. High-quality drone footage also supports broader decision-making in post-production by providing multiple perspectives for editors and producers.

Applications in the audiovisual sector

Drones have revolutionised how audiovisual content is produced, offering new creative possibilities and enhancing visual quality across various formats. Below are some standout examples of their application in film, advertising and events, both in the Canary Islands and internationally:

Film and television production

Drones are essential for capturing sweeping aerial views and dynamic tracking shots, from high-altitude landscapes to low-level glides across land or water.

Solos, a dramedy directed by Guillermo Ríos and produced by Secuoya Studios, was filmed entirely in the Canary Islands. Drones were used to showcase the islands’ natural beauty, contributing to the visual storytelling.

Sky Rojo (Netflix): This Spanish action series made extensive use of drones to film chase scenes and dynamic sequences, enhancing the show’s energy and cinematic impact.

Society of the Snow (Netflix): Directed by J.A. Bayona, this film about the 1972 Andes plane crash utilised drones to capture sweeping aerials that helped recreate the tragic and stunning mountain setting.

Advertising and marketing

Drones offer striking aerial perspectives that elevate the visual appeal of promotional content.

In December 2024, actress Sarah Jessica Parker, known for Sex and the City, shot a commercial in the historic square of La Laguna Cathedral, Tenerife. Drones were used to highlight the city’s architecture, adding a sense of scale and elegance to the visuals.

Events and streaming

At festivals, sporting events and public spectacles, drones create immersive experiences for attendees and audiences online.

Gran Canaria Bestial Race: This obstacle course event in Arucas, Gran Canaria, benefits from real-time aerial drone coverage, offering panoramic views and high-quality promotional footage.

Disneyland Paris: The Disney Electrical Sky Parade features a spectacular drone light show that combines synchronised drones, video projections, lights and fountains. The result is a visually stunning experience with glowing figures and iconic park imagery brought to life in the night sky.

Click here to learn more about the production of Society of the Snow.

Industry trends in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have firmly established themselves as a leading audiovisual hub, offering unique advantages for film, television and commercial productions. With a favourable tax regime and an extraordinary variety of natural landscapes, the archipelago continues to attract international production companies. In recent years, the sector has seen spectacular growth, driven by rising demand for film shoots and audiovisual content creation.

By 2025, drones will be an essential tool in audiovisual production across the islands. They are set to transform the creation of content for film, advertising and live events through innovation and efficiency. Film production companies, advertising agencies and event organisers that embrace these technologies and adapt to evolving trends and regulations will be better positioned to stand out in an increasingly competitive market.