Filming Cowboys Music Festival 2026

I was invited out to get aerial footage this year at the Cowboys Tent during The Calgary Stampede. I got a variety of shots with conventional drone and FPV throughout the 10 day event. For a drone pilot at an advertised event, we need what’s called an SFOC (Special Flight Operation Certificate) to fly within 100 feet of the perimeter. These typically need to be filed well in advance to guarantee approval. To legally fly over crowds, a drone weighing less than 250 grams is required. That is the equivalent weight of a disposable water bottle. I normally chose to bring a DJI Mini 5 Pro, and a custom built “cine-Whoop” with a DJI O4 Pro air unit. Both of these cameras offer exceptional quality for the size and weight. I will sometimes fly a de-cased GoPro 13 on the cine-whoop for slightly better video quality, but the sleeker profile without the camera sitting on top helps it fly much more effortlessly. Below are both of the drones used during the event:

Cine-whoop shown with a de-cased GoPro 13

DJI Mini 5 Pro

When flying at these types of events, it’s important to keep in mind that safety is more important than the shot. Sometimes that means saying no to certain shots if the risk is too high. Showing up before the public gets there to scout the site for any obstacles such as hanging cables, and light posts. Events are notorious for all sorts of hidden wires that you can’t see in the dark until it’s too late. If you watch the video you can sometimes see the sprinkler line when I enter of exit the tent. It sits right smack dab in the middle of the ground and roof. They used this to mist the area and keep people cool. Once you have a mental map of everything, and have done a couple of practice flights, it gets much easier.

My favourite set is always Steve Aoki since he is one of the few people this year that lets the drone orbit him on stage. He showed up twice this year. Once to fill in for YUNGBLUD who couldn’t make it and cancelled last minute. Of course he always impresses with his cake throwing accuracy. Here’s a couple of shots from those days:

If you have an event you would like to get aerial coverage for, feel free to reach out and see if we are the right fit for your needs!