AZDroneFest 2023

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AZDroneFest is a film festival and UAS Expo designed to educate, promote, cultivate and celebrate the art of aerial cinematography in Arizona.  The film festival is dedicated to recognizing the best in aerial cinematography in multiple categories.  Attached to the film festival is an education expo with industry panel discussions, keynote speakers and workshops for commercial drone pilots, drone enthusiasts and aerial cinematographers to attend.  AZDroneFest is owned and organized by USDroneFest, Inc.

OUR PARTNERS

 
 
 
 
 
 

THE EVENT

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AZDroneFest 2023

Film Festival & UAS Expo
Oct. 7, 2023

9:30am - 3:30pm

Grand Canyon University
3300 W Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85017

A FREE FAMILY EVENT

Registration is required

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

  • DRONE DEMO
  • DRONE RACES
  • OBSTACLE COURSE
  • VENDORS

AN INDUSTRY EXPO

VIP TICKET REQUIRED

LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS

  • KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
  • BREAKOUT SESSIONS
  • PANEL DISCUSSIONS
  • TECH DEMO

AN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

FREE EVENT OUTSIDE

WATCH AMAZING FILMS

  • WALK THE RED CARPET
  • MEET THE FILMMAKERS
  • WATCH ALL THE FILMS
  • CELEBRATE THE BEST OF EACH CATEGORY
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FREE General Admission

$0
  • Access to the exhibitor/demo area
  • Watch all the films
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Early bird EXPO VIP Tickets

$35
  • Regular Price: $40
  • Access to All Sessions, workshops and panels
  • Buffet Lunch Provided
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Filmmaker Bundle

$99
  • 1 Film entree
  • 2x EXPO VIP Tickets
  • Buffet Lunch Provided
 
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2023 AGENDA

 
Purchase a VIP ticket to gain access to engaging breakout sessions and expert panel discussions. Learn from industry leaders, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. VIP Ticket holders will also have access to our buffet lunch– get your ticket today
 

VIP TICKETS Track 1

  • VIP Registration

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  • VIP Going Up: Conversation with UAS Experts about Trends in Commercial UAS and a look at the Road Ahead

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    Speakers: Mignonne Hollis, President at Aerospace Arizona; Sami Mian, Aerospace Engineer Manager at Amazon,
    and Kevin Garland, Flight Operations Lead at L3 Harris

  • VIP Aerial Cinematography from Hobbyist to Pro

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    Speaker: Matthew James Price from Paradise Valley Aerial


    Join award-winning cinematographer Matthew James Price as he shares valuable insights and techniques to help you transition from a hobbyist to a professional in the world of aerial cinematography. Learn the secrets of capturing breathtaking shots and take your skills to the next level. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best

  • VIP LUNCH

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    Paid vip ticket holders will have access to a buffet lunch and an opportunity to network

  • VIP Drones for Education

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    Speakers: Tim Ingram & Skip Fredricks from FIDA USA


    Discover the incredible potential of drones in education. Explore how these remarkable devices can inspire and teach students about the wonders of science and technology. Unlock new possibilities for learning with drones.

  • VIP Working on Big Productions

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    Speakers: John Hebrank, Alex Schreer, Jeremiah Davis, Brandon Main, Arizona Production Association

    So you think you're ready to fly your drone for Spielberg on his next feature? What are the skills and expectations to work on a large set?


    This panel discussion includes: ReelBros The Arizona Production Association Jeremiah Davis Arizona Filmmakers

VIP TICKETS Track 2

  • VIP Registration

    -

  • VIP Going Up: Conversation with UAS Experts about Trends in Commercial UAS and a look at the Road Ahead

    -

    Speakers: Mignonne Hollis, President at Aerospace Arizona; Sami Mian, Aerospace Engineer Manager at Amazon,
    and Kevin Garland, Flight Operations Lead at L3 Harris

  • VIP Drone Deliveries: The Future is Now

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    Speaker: DroneUp


    Explore the cutting-edge technology that's shaping the future of drone deliveries and gain insights into the current realities of this transformative industry. Discover how drones are revolutionizing the way goods are transported and delivered, and get a firsthand look at the innovations that are making it all possible.

  • VIP LUNCH

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    Paid vip ticket holders will have access to a buffet lunch and an opportunity to network

  • VIP Staying on Target with Drone Safety

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    Speaker: James McDanolds, Master Droneologist at the School of Uncrewed Technology, atSonoran Desert Institute


    With drone technology advancing as rapidly as it is, safety can be an ever-moving target. When an emergency scenario occurs, the drone operators still have to overcome their initial emotional response and think through the actions needed to safely land the aircraft. Join this session to learn: The use of FRATs for safety Risk registers Remote and onsite surveys for commercial flight operations

  • VIP UAS & Land Management

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    Speaker: Chuck Powell from AGIC

    Today drones are being used in conservation efforts on public lands by assisting in data collection that can inform scientists and land managers to help guide decisions.

FREE Outdoor Expo

  • Doors Open 10:00am

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  • LANDSCAPE FILM SCREENING & AWARD

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  • Freefly Astro

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  • DroneUp Demo

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  • Cinelifter Demo

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  • DJI Matrice 30 Demo

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  • DEMO 6

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  • STILL PHOTOGRAPHY SCREENING & AWARD

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  • Cine Whoop Demo

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  • DEMO 7

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  • FPV FILM SCREENING & AWARD

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  • DroneUp Demo

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  • DJI Matrice 30 Demo

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  • Cine Whoop Demo

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  • DEMO 6

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  • NARRATIVE FILM SCREENING & AWARD

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  • Freefly Astro

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  • Cinelifter Demo

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  • ADVERTISING SCREENING & AWARD

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  • DroneUp Demo

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  • ARIZONA FILM SCREENING & AWARD

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  • DEMO 7

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  • DJI Matrice 30 Demo

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  • DEMO 6

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  • Cine Whoop Demo

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  • INDUSTRIAL FILM SCREENING & AWARD

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  • DroneUp Demo

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  • DEMO 7

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  • Director's Choice Award

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  • DJI Matrice 30 Demo

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  • SHOWREEL FILM SCREENING & AWARD

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  • DEMO 6

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  • Cinelifter Demo

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  • Freefly Astro

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  • FESTIVAL END

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  • Bill Davis
    Great Job! Thank you for all of your hard work to put this on.
    Bill Davis
  • Julien Hudym
    Super Festival, très bonne communication et événement en live vraiment chouette. Malheureusement, l'horaire été complexe pour moi, mais j'ai vraiment apprécié l'ambiance globale et la communication. A l'année prochaine j'espère !
    Julien Hudym
  • Chris Peloquin
    Great festival, and so much great information shared. The films in the festival were great as well!
    Chris Peloquin
  • Craig Murley
    Wow! What an experience. From the first communication to the event and the final Award ceremony - I found this to be friendly, informative and insightful. A great experience even though I could only attend virtually from Switzerland. Bravo!
    Craig Murley
  • Avian Cyclops
    It was really well organized & professional.  The expo, panel, & films were fantastic!  Loved it.
    Avian Cyclops
  • Devon Foster
    I have found no better place for drone filmmakers to showcase their work.
    Devon Foster
  • Devon Foster
    THANK YOU, AZDroneFest! I just started flying drones and have never won an award for it before. AZ DroneFest has truly helped launch my career as a drone pilot and filmmaker.
    Devon Foster
  • Maria Davis
    Very awesome film festival! I'm looking forward to next year!
    Maria Davis
  • Attila Szamosvári
    Thank you AZDrone Fest for choosing my film and organize this amazing festival! :) See you next year!
    Attila Szamosvári

NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCEMENT

 

USDroneCast

Tune in every Tuesday for captivating interviews with top drone pilots, cinematographers, and industry leaders from around the world. Whether you're a professional drone pilot, a hobbyist, or simply fascinated by the world of drones, USDroneCast offers valuable insights, inspiring stories, and a platform to stay connected with the ever-evolving drone community.

Join us as we explore the fascinating transformation of music icon Stuart Smith into the founder of The Droning Company.

Stuart, a seasoned musician who has rocked the stage as the former guitarist of the reformed rock band Sweet and now strums the strings with his own group, Heaven & Earth. 🎸🤘

Read More >

 
 

CATEGORIES

 
All films must be 5 minutes in length or less and at least 50% must be shot using a drone or UAV (unless otherwise specified).
Films submitted to the "Narrative category" have no length restrictions and can have less than 50% of its shots being aerial shots. Narrative films will be selected based on aerial cinematography only and will be asked to provide a 5 min or less trailer to be used during the screening.
All entries must be through www.filmfreeway.com
 

Submission Deadline

September 15th
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Arizona Scenic Landscape

Arizona

Description: Single film or compilation either featuring Arizona, or from an Arizona filmmaker.

Length: 5 min or less

Entry Fee: $50
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Narrative/Documentary

Description: Single film, fiction or non-fiction

Length: unlimited

Entry Fee: $50

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Landscape

Description: Single film or compilation showcasing nature’s beauty

Length: 5 min or less

Entry Fee: $50

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Showreel

Description: Single film or compilation of clips showcasing your best work.

Length: 5 min or less

Entry Fee: $50

AdvertisingCategory

Advertising

Description: Single advertising spot/news story or compilation of clips from multiple project or stories.

Length: 5 min or less

Entry Fee: $50
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Still Photography

Description: Single still photo taken with a drone

Length: 5 min or less

Entry Fee: $50

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FPV

Description: Single film or compilation of clips using an FPV drone (racing drone)

Length: 5 min or less

Entry Fee: $50

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New Pilot

Description: Honorable Mention to celebrate new up-and-coming drone pilot with no more than 1 year of flying and filming experience.

Length: 5 min or less

Entry Fee: FREE
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Industrial

Description: Single film or compilation of clips used in construction, inspection or other industrial projects

Length: 5 min or less

Entry Fee: $20

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First Responders

Description: Single film or compilation of clips used in any first responders' project (training, inspection...)

Length: 5 min or less

Entry Fee: $10

SAVE $ WITH OUR FILMMAKER BUNDLE

 
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Filmmaker Bundle

$99
  • 1 Film entrie
  • 2x EXPO VIP Tickets
  • Buffet Lunch Provided
 
 
 

AZDroneFest 2022

 

OUR JUDGES

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Camilla Dellión

Drone & content creator

Camilla is an exceptional aerial photographer and content creator based in Sweden. Whether filming breathtaking videos or capturing stunning aerial photographs, her work reflects a deep connection with the art of flight
 
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Isabelle Nyroth

Yvarbrims consultancy service

Isabelle brings years of experience in international drone operations as a pilot, instructor and consultant. She has operated over 20 types of drones in dozens of countries. She is the founder of Yvarbrims, a drone consulting firm located in Sweden.
 
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Matthew Price

11 Loud Productions

Matthew has over 20 years’ experience as a cinematographer, camera operator, and drone pilot working for a vast array of world-renowned brands. Based in the San Francisco Bay area and owner of 11Loud Productions, he is a veteran storyteller who brings creativity and technical know-how to a set.
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Maxime Pontoire

Emxpi

Maxime is a professional aerial photographer/cinematographer and drone pilot based in France. He has flown in France, the U.S., and French Polynesia, winning multiple regional awards. When he is not flying he shares his expertise on photo processing, flying techniques, and product reviews on his blog.
 
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Merr Watson

Aerial photographer

Merr is an exceptional aerial photographer and visual artist based in Australia. Her talent and dedication have garnered attention from various notable brands, including DJI Global, Beautiful Destinations, Conde Nast Traveler, Qantas Airlines, Commonwealth, and many more.
 
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Sandrine Hecq

Aerial Photographer

Sandrine is a talented aerial photographer and digital content creator. She capture beauty around the world from a unique perspective and angle.
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Tom Middleton

Lush Films / BBC

Tom has over 15 years experience working in professional multimedia production. Tom is a talented Cinematographer/Director at SMN Films in the UK, and a drone operator for the BBC. He has lectured in film production for Staffordshire and Worcester Universities.
 
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Tomas Robres

DroneOfficial

Fueled by the bold creativity of Barcelona and a blend of art, tech, and love for nature. He stands out as a multi-talented creator, and founder of the DroneOfficial Community, a platform collaborating with world's top drone pilots. Drones, design, and speed! That's his game.
 
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Travis Petet

Spright

Through his ingenuity and drive to improve the safety, quality and performance of every operation he has been a part of, Travis has earned multiple NBAA Flying Safety Awards, and was a 2017 Top 40 under 40 Next Gen Award recipient.

OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 

AZDroneFest is governed by our Board of Directors, a group of volunteers dedicated to our mission

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Eric Legnon

Board Member - Treasurer

Eric is the owner of On Scene Productions, a full service production company in Arizona. As an industry leader who has worked in many different capacities, Eric brings a wide range of experience and expertise.
 
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Brandon LeTarte

Board Member

Brandon is an accomplished athlete, and coach. He is currently the women basketball head coach at Sunnyslope High School. Brandon has a demonstrated history of working in the sports industry (managing/recruiting/sales). Skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Coaching, Team Building, Training, and Community Outreach.
 
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Theresa Maher

Board Member - Vice President

Theresa is a graduate of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. She is currently the Managing Partner of Hire Story, a video production company specialized in recruitment videos. Theresa brings years of experience and dedication to the broadcasting industry.
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Corey Schubert

Board Member - Secretary

Corey Schubert works in media communications and public relations, and is a former public affairs editor and journalist. He's also the co-producer and co-writer of several short films.
 
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Yasmin Tajik

Board Member

Yasmin is a professional photographer and FAA certified drone pilot based in Arizona. She is also a Brand Ambassador for Women Who Drone. Her goal is to inspire and create change by sharing images that document the basic rights we all deserve living on this planet.
 
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Chris Tinard

Board Member - President

Chris Tinard is an award-winning video professional with over 16 years of experience in the field. He has traveled to film clients all over the nation and earned a reputation for excellence in storytelling through film.

2022 WINNERS

 
 
 
 

AZDroneFest 2021

 

2021 WINNERS

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Cinematic FPV | A Visual Journey

Director: Danny Mcgee
Country: USA

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Bosphorus, Churches and Galata Tower Tour

Director: Yasin Fedakar
Country: Turkey

 
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EXPLORATION

Director: Craig Murley
Country: Switzerland

AZDroneFest-BestLANDSCAPE-2021_WHITE_SMALL

Outback Australia

Director: Chris tangey
Country: Australia

 
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Arizona

Director: Todd Mowen
Country: USA

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Luminescence ★

Director: Leo Ginailhac
Country: France

 
AZDroneFest-BestCommercial-2021_WHITE_SMALL

Hard Hat

Director: Saunders Staley
Country: USA

AZDroneFest-BestNEWPILOT-2021_WHITE_SMALL

Southtyrol - Cinematic FPV

Director: Alex Kirchler
Country: Italy

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22 Weeks

Director: Robert Smith
Country: USA

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Love Letter

Director: Stephanie Marie Morales
Country: USA

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Sleeping Siren

Director: Devon Foster
Country: USA

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2020 WINNERS

BestFPV-2020

Flying Over Switzerland

Director: Danny Mcgee
Country: USA

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(Not only) Now it's epic.

Director: Mauro Pagliai
Country: Italy

 
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Duality

Director: Craig Murley
Country: Switzerland

AZDroneFest-BestLANDSCAPE-2020_White

Away

Director: Jason Hatfield
Country: USA

 
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Arizona Canyoneering

Director: Chris, Jessica Foncannon
Country: USA

AZDroneFest-DirectorsChoice-2020

Mighty Wings

Director: Chris Peloquin
Country: USA

 
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Breathe

Director: Charlie Duncan
Country: USA

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Deserted

Director: William Pitts
Country: USA

 
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The Moon

Director: Saunders Staley
Country: USA

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