Drone pilot at the Olympics: "I want to give people the feeling of flying"
Jonas Sloth Sandell, an Olympic drone pilot and former ski jumper, aims to enhance the viewer's experience by making them feel as if they are jumping themselves through his drone footage.
In the context of the ongoing Olympic Games, Jonas Sloth Sandell serves as a drone pilot, capturing aerial footage that enhances the viewer experience. His intention is to allow the television audience to feel as if they are part of the action, specifically in ski jumping events. Having a background as a competitive ski jumper for both Norway and Sweden, Sandell has transitioned from participant to cameraman, utilizing his skills to narrate the sport's excitement from a new perspective. Sandell's journey into drone piloting began during a period of injury in 2016 when he started flying the drone to support his teammates in Trondheim. His commitment and extensive training led to his selection as an Olympic drone pilot, portraying a unique blend of athleticism and technological innovation. Through years of dedication, he has honed his craft, ultimately bringing a fresh narrative to the Olympic broadcasts and reaching viewers in ways traditional cameras could not. The integration of drone technology into sports broadcasting not only enhances the visual storytelling of the Olympics but also symbolizes a merging of sports and technology. As viewers increasingly look for immersive experiences, Sandell's aspirations reflect a broader trend in sports media, where empowering the audience's experience becomes paramount. His work showcases the potential of drones in not just capturing action, but also in delivering a transformative viewing experience that resonates with sports fans around the world.