May 28, 2018

Innovating the Skies: My Journey with Red Bull Aces

As I reflect on my time with Red Bull Aces, I’m filled with a sense of awe and pride. Being at the forefront of developing the groundbreaking camera platforms, known as gates, and managing over 200 POV cameras for this high-octane event was not just a job; it was a passion project that combined my love for extreme sports and my expertise from my military background.

My journey with Red Bull Aces began with a vision: to capture the essence of the world’s most thrilling wingsuit race from angles never seen before. The task was complex and required a unique blend of creativity and technical know-how. I drew heavily on my military experience, especially my knowledge of aerial operations and equipment. This background was crucial in understanding how to leverage technology in extreme conditions while ensuring safety and efficiency.

Developing the gates was an intricate process. These camera platforms were designed to be suspended from helicopters, capturing dynamic footage of athletes as they navigated through the sky. The key challenge was to balance the need for comprehensive coverage with the aerodynamic and weight constraints imposed by suspending equipment from a helicopter.

Everything needs to be perfect

We meticulously calculated the weight and balance of each gate, ensuring that they could be safely and effectively maneuvered. The cameras needed to be lightweight yet robust enough to withstand high altitudes and varying weather conditions. My military training came into play here, as I utilized techniques learned from managing aerial equipment to optimize the balance between weight and stability.

The placement of cameras was a carefully orchestrated endeavor. We aimed to capture a 360-degree view of the event, offering viewers an immersive experience. Cameras were positioned to catch every swoop and dive of the athletes, with angles calculated to provide both close-up action shots and broader views of the race. The result was a multifaceted portrayal of the event, showcasing the intensity and beauty of wingsuit flying.

 

Managing the POV cameras was akin to conducting a symphony. Each camera had its role, its unique angle and perspective. Coordination was key. We had cameras on the ground, in the air, and even on the athletes themselves. This comprehensive coverage allowed us to tell a compelling story of courage, skill, and the sheer thrill of the race.

When we merged cutting-edge technology with my military expertise in aerial operations, we not only captured the essence of Red Bull Aces but also revolutionized how extreme sports are viewed and experienced.”

The success of the camera platforms and the footage captured was a testament to the hard work and innovation of our team. Our designs not only met the initial approval but also set a new standard for filming extreme sports. The platforms have since become an integral part of Red Bull Aces, enabling the event to be showcased in ways that were previously thought impossible.

Pushing Boundaries

As I look back, I’m incredibly proud of what we accomplished. We pushed the boundaries of what was possible in capturing extreme sports, blending technology, creativity, and a deep understanding of aerodynamics and camera work. The legacy of our work continues to resonate, as each year Red Bull Aces reaches new heights, and with it, our innovative camera platforms continue to capture the heart-pounding excitement of this spectacular event.

Comments 2

  • Danielle McCoy

    December 2, 2022

    Just read your blog and I’m blown away by the technical mastery behind those camera platforms. It’s amazing how your military experience played such a crucial role in achieving those breathtaking shots. Truly groundbreaking work in sports cinematography!

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