The short answer
Plan around the timetable of events, and agree where the cameras can stand safely. Capture the atmosphere rather than every word, as outdoor sound is hard. Check consent as you would for any filming.
Why summer events are worth filming
Sports day and summer events are some of the happiest days in the school year. However, many families cannot be there to see them.
A short film lets everyone share the day, including relatives who live further away. It also gives the school footage for its website and next year's open evenings.
Outdoor events show a side of school life that classrooms cannot. Teamwork, effort and fun all come across well on film, and families love seeing it.
Summer events also show your school community at its best. Staff, parents and pupils all take part, and that warmth is hard to show any other way.
Plan the day
- Share the timetable. Send the order of events, so the key races and finals are not missed.
- Agree camera spots. Choose places that are safe, out of the way and close to the action.
- Check consent. Confirm which pupils must not appear, exactly as for indoor filming.
- Have a weather plan. Know what happens if events move indoors or change times.
- Name a staff contact. One person who can answer questions on the day saves time.
- Mention any presentations. Let me know about medals, trophies or speeches, so I am in position for them.
- Plan the breaks. Tell me when pupils stop for lunch or water, so filming fits around them.
Families with phones
Parents often film sports day themselves. So it helps to remind them of your policy on photos before the day.
Many schools ask families to film only their own child, and not to post other pupils online. A short note in the newsletter is usually enough.
A professional film can also ease the pressure. Families know the day is being captured, so they can simply watch and cheer.
Families then get steady footage of the whole day, not just one race.
Getting good footage outdoors
Outdoor light changes quickly, and wind makes sound difficult. So the best films capture the feel of the day, rather than every speech.
A drone can show the whole field and the scale of the event. I am licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority, and every flight is planned safely and legally.
Close shots of effort, cheering and celebrations then bring the film to life. The mix of wide and close shots is what makes it watchable.
Throughout the day, a member of your staff stays with me. Pupils without consent are then kept out of shot, even as groups move around the field.
Summer fairs and other events
Summer fairs, fun runs and themed days all film well. However, each one needs a slightly different plan.
A fair has no set timetable, so I film the stalls, games and crowds as they happen. A fun run, by contrast, has a clear start and finish to plan around.
Also think about who will be there. Families and visitors may appear in the background, so let them know filming is taking place.
A short notice at the entrance usually covers this. Anyone who prefers not to be filmed can then let a member of staff know.
Finally, decide whether the film is for families only or for wider use. That choice shapes how the footage is shared later.
What to do with the film
Share the full film with families through a private link. Your school approves it first, so you stay in control.
Short clips can also go on your website or social media, where consent allows. They show families the kind of experiences your school offers.
Keep the best moments for next year too. They work well in open evening films and welcome packs, and they cost nothing extra to reuse.
Summer is also a natural time for other end-of-year events. My guide to leavers' assemblies and summer concerts on film covers those.
Then keep the film safe once the event is over. All footage is stored on encrypted drives. I can also re-edit the film if a child later needs removing.
Questions schools ask
Can you film our sports day with a drone?
Often, yes, where it is safe and legal. I plan every flight around the site and the people on it.
How do you keep pupils without consent out of shot outdoors?
I agree a discreet way to identify them with your staff, then plan camera angles around them. A member of staff stays with me throughout.
How much does event filming cost?
Sports days and outdoor events are priced to suit the day. Ask me for a quote, or see my <a href="/prices/">prices page</a> for a guide.
What happens if it rains?
Agree a weather plan beforehand. If events move indoors or to another day, I adjust the filming to match.
Can we have short clips for Instagram?
Yes. Short vertical versions for Instagram and TikTok are available on request.
Want families to share your summer events? Get in touch, and I will talk through filming your sports day, fair or celebration.
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