[Video] The mad view from the F1 heli-cam | GRR
Who has the best seat in the house to every Formula 1 race, and works just as hard as the drivers themselves?
Aerial Camera Operator Lievan Hermans holds the honours, taking to the skies every race weekend to operate the Shotover F1 camera system, a six-axis gyro stabilized platform.
Under the direction of the feed directors, he follows the races from incredible angles, alternating between wide panning shots and brilliant close-ups. And while he makes it look easy, it is anything but, with Hermans having to account for numerous factors, including the cars’ speed, any head or tail wind and other weather factors, as well as communicating with the pilot and race control. And that’s not to even mention operating the camera itself, when the helicopter pilot is manoeuvring as if he’s part of an air display…
He joins the drivers on practice day, perfecting the lines and shots for the upcoming weekend, and curating the incredible sky-high views that Formula 1 is known for. Bravo!
Welcome to Goodwood Elevenses, a mid-morning helping of motoring-related amusement to help break up your day. Watch the last video: The howl of the Ferrari 333 SP’s V12