6 Steps to Developing a Drone Light Show

An example drone light show display which can be used in drone marketing

At Electric Airshows we develop content that will showcase the drones’ capabilities and create a memorable experience for the audience. In this article, we will discuss how we go about developing a drone light show.

Drone light shows have become a popular way to celebrate special events such as concerts and corporate events. A drone light show is a type of aerial entertainment that involves flying multiple drones in synchronised patterns to create stunning visual effects.

Step 1: Theme and Purpose of the Show

We start by defining the theme and purpose of the drone light show before we start creating the content for the drone light show. We do this to define the theme and purpose of the show. The theme should reflect the occasion for which the is being held. For example, if it’s a corporate event, we work to include the company’s logo and animate it with the drone formation.

Step 2: The Sound

It might sound intuitive, but at Electric Airshows for the second stage activity, we focus on choosing the right music to accompany the drone light shows. The accompanying music must complement the visual effects and set the tone for the occasion. The music should also match the theme of the show. For example, if it’s a corporate event, we align typically upbeat and energetic music that matches the corporate identity.

Step 3: Create a Storyboard

The Electric Airshows storyboard is a visual representation of the drone light show. It outlines the sequence of the drone formations and the music that will be used for each formation. A storyboard will help you to plan and visualise the drone light show, making it easier to create content for the show.

Step 4: Apply Colouring

At Electric Airshows we use the full palette of colours available to create a visually stunning display for our clients. Our drones are capable of emitting 16 million colours and the effective use of colour within the drone light show can create a visually stunning display using the different colours to represent the different themes or emotions.

Step 5: Engineer the Movement

We typically then experiment with different drone formations, working out how to move the drones in the sky to maximise the effect and minimise the crossover, where the drones have to pass each other in the sky. Electric Airshows have found that to create a memorable drone light show, you need to experiment with different drone formations and transitions. The real key here is to take the storyboard and make the shapes, patterns, logos etc. move in the most effective way in the sky.

Step 6: Test the Drone Light Show

At Electric Airshows we typically test fly the Drone Light Show multiple times in simulation and normally once as a full flight trial before the event. We normally secure sign-off from our clients using a simulated version of the Drone Light Show. Our pre-flight show, ensures everything is prepared and flying correctly before we leave for site.

Developing a drone light show requires careful planning and attention to detail. Electric Airshows define the theme and purpose of the show, choose the right music, create a storyboard, apply colour and experiment with different drone formations, before testing the show. Using this six-stage plane, Electric Airshows create a visually stunning and memorable Drone Light Show.

Remember that the ultimate goal is to create an unforgettable experience for the audience, so following the Electric Airshows’ six-stage plane creates a show that will leave a lasting impression.

You can read more about the services we offer or get in touch to discuss your next event.

Client testimonials

Working with Electric Airshows added a dynamic drone light show element to our private show, which alongside the fireworks and pyrotechnics created a new multi dimensional experience for our guests.

Jon Kellett, Starlight Design

Electric Airshows integrated a Drone Light Show element to our fireworks and multimedia extravaganza, bringing a new creative medium to the skies above our venue.

Chris Carter, Merlin Entertainments

To fly the nation state flag, offshore, at such short notice, bought to our event an element never previously seen and made a huge impact on social media

Dashka Tolkecheva, UA Events

Partners & Accreditations