About This Project
SkyCandy Studios brought their cinematic expertise to the West Coast with a vibrant ambassador film celebrating San Francisco as a host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026™. Created as part of FIFA’s global “One Year to Go” campaign, the film highlights San Francisco’s iconic landmarks, cultural richness, and bold spirit; capturing the city’s energy as it prepares to welcome the world. This project shows our San Francisco drone cinematography team at work across the city for a World Cup host film.
Project Highlights
- Shoot: FIFA ‘One Year to Go’ ambassador film
- Services: Drone cinematography for sports plus ground coverage
- Locations: Golden Gate Bridge, Mission District murals, Chinatown, waterfronts
- Style: Fast FPV, clean orbitals, sunrise and blue hour coverage
- Host Venue: Levi’s Stadium will host 2026 matches**”
Shot over several days across the Bay Area, the production weaves together sweeping aerials, dynamic street scenes, and intimate neighborhood moments. From the Golden Gate Bridge at sunrise to the murals of the Mission District and the bustle of Chinatown, SkyCandy paints a vivid portrait of a city where diversity and innovation collide. The narration brings heart and purpose to the visuals; celebrating San Francisco’s legacy as a global trailblazer and a community that thrives on openness, progress, and passion.
With Levi’s Stadium set to host several key matches during the tournament, this film is more than a postcard; it’s an invitation. SkyCandy’s storytelling frames San Francisco not just as a beautiful backdrop for the world’s game, but as a city ready to lead, welcome, and inspire on the global stage.
Aerial and Ground Production
We combined FPV and cinema drones with steady ground shots to show speed, scale, and texture. We planned flight paths for bridges, waterfronts, and hillside views, then balanced them with street scenes in real neighborhoods.
Key moves included fast FPV passes for energy, slow orbitals for scale, and light matched to each time of day. The film feels big and cinematic while still personal to San Francisco.
Locations and Logistics
Shooting across the Bay needs smart planning. Weather shifts, microclimates, tides, foot traffic, and sightlines all matter. We scouted for sunrise bridge reveals, midday city texture, and blue hour glow.
On the ground, we kept a small footprint so normal activity could continue. In the air, we used safe launch and landing spots and kept clear buffers around people and property
Crew, Gear and Safety
Our pilots hold FAA Part 107. We use written checklists, site risk reviews, and visual observers. We check local guidance, coordinate with property teams, and monitor radio signals for solid video links.
Our setups include FPV for action, sub 250 or heavy lift platforms as needed, and gimbals for ground shots. Every choice balances image quality with safety and respect for the community.
Results and Distribution
This ambassador film was created for FIFA’s ‘One Year to Go’ campaign. It celebrates San Francisco’s identity and builds excitement for 2026. The cut is built for social, broadcast, and events.
Hire Our Bay Area Drone Crew
Planning sports, live, or major event coverage in the Bay Area
Work with a team that understands the locations, timing, and pace of San Francisco.
