What to Know Before Starting Drone Filming in Japan
Regulations and Required Procedures
When filming with a drone in Japan, it is important first to understand the regulations under the Civil Aeronautics Act. Drones weighing 200 g or more must be registered with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Prior permission or approval is also required for flights in densely populated areas, near airports, at altitudes of 150 m or more, or over events. The same applies to flights at night or beyond visual line of sight. Applications can be submitted through the online DIPS system. In addition, the amended Civil Aeronautics Act, which took effect in June 2022, made Remote ID capability mandatory. This function broadcasts the drone's location and registration information in real time. When planning a shoot, it is essential to understand these regulations thoroughly and complete the necessary procedures in advance.
Safe Operation and Filming Techniques
Safe drone filming requires not only piloting skills but also consideration for the surrounding environment. Always check the weather before flying; postponing the shoot in strong winds or rain is a sensible choice. Keep a close eye on the remaining battery charge and plan to land with ample power to spare. The key to filming is to use slow movements to capture steady footage. Sudden movements can make footage unstable and uncomfortable to watch. Take care not to approach subjects too closely, and respect their privacy. If you want to learn advanced filming techniques, consider attending a specialist drone school. Many schools cover a wide range of topics, from regulations to practical filming techniques.
Copyright and Privacy Considerations
When publishing footage or photographs taken with a drone, be mindful of copyright and privacy issues. Filming in parks or urban areas may capture people in a way that makes them identifiable. In such cases, it is advisable to edit the footage so that individuals cannot be identified wherever possible, or obtain permission from the people being filmed beforehand. Permission from the owner is also required to film private property. When filming tourist attractions or cultural properties, it is advisable to check with the administrator in advance. Commercial use calls for even greater care, as various restrictions may apply, including filming permits and prohibitions on photographing counterfeit goods. As a general rule, copyright in the footage and photographs belongs to the person who took them, but where buildings or artworks are included, the rights of their copyright holders must also be considered. Drone filming is attracting attention as a new form of expression, but remember to comply with the law and act ethically while creating imaginative work.
