donovan davis – pilot

I am a passionate professional with a unique skill set, combining twenty years of real world and industry filmmaking experience, a love for flight of all varieties and a high level of technical expertise and flight proficiency with UAS.

I am also a test pilot for the largest drone manufacturer in the world, DJI.  Here’s a video from DJI’s website showing me flying their new S-900 UAS: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8aC9Z7-Qxwk).

And, as required by the FAA for commercial UAS, I am also a fully certified full-size (manned) aircraft pilot as well as a part 107 remote pilot.  To verify, go to the FAA Airmen Inquiry page and type in my name: (https://amsrvs.registry.faa.gov/ airmeninquiry/)

Technical Expertise

I have built and flown my own fixed-wing and single-rotor RC helicopters since I was a child and have built and logged thousands of hours of flight time with modern multi-rotor UAS from DJI and my own custom builds.  I am well versed in all technical/mechanical aspects of UAS, gimbals, cameras, batteries, programming etc. and I am full capable of repairs/troubleshooting/reprogramming in the field.

Film Industry Experience

I am an active member of both IATSE Local 80 (Motion Picture Studio Grips) and IATSE Local 600 (International Cinematographers Guild) and over the years I have amassed the knowledge and experience in camera movement and cinematography vital to the effective execution of aerial cinematography on today’s film sets.  In those years, I have also gained the knowledge, experience and vocabulary to effectively communicate with directors and cinematographers for any form of shot design, a vital skill necessary to navigate a film set safely and effectively.  To view my industry experience go to: (www.imdb.com/name/nm1882989/?ref_=fn_al_nm_4)

Personal

I have written and directed award winning screenplays and films and been a part of a wide array of film and television projects. Over the years, I have been a director, producer, writer, cinematographer, camera operator, key grip and dolly grip. I am very familiar with the intricacies and challenges associated with each post and bring that rounded knowledge and professionalism with me.  I live with my wife, Lauren, in North Hollywood, California.

Recent Clients: