Filming for the Apple TV series "12 12 12: The Heist"
For the Apple TV+ series 121212, we were commissioned to carry out all drone footage shot in Zurich, a task that was not only technically challenging but also clearly in the international top league in terms of scope and demands. In the middle of the bustling city, we moved through a wide variety of locations, from iconic urban squares to highly sensitive areas such as Paradeplatz, the Christmas market, and between the festive Christmas lights of Lucy on Bahnhofstrasse. We flew extremely close to buildings, precisely, controlled, and with a clearly defined cinematic style that went far beyond classic aerial photography.
Close collaboration with the international crew and renowned director of photography Toshiaki Ozawa had a decisive influence on the project. Every camera movement, every line in the image, and every perspective was deliberately chosen to consistently support the visual language of the series. The aerial shots were not seen as an accessory, but as a central narrative element—and the demands on timing, precision, and atmosphere were correspondingly high.
Technically, we used a DJI Inspire 3 with SORA certification, which allowed us to operate safely even in densely built-up, sensitive, and heavily frequented areas. We worked in a wide variety of lighting conditions, from urban daylight to night scenes with reflective facades, Christmas lights, and deep shadows, always with the goal of creating images that feel uncompromisingly high-end.
Set Management was responsible for service production, taking care of the structure, security, organization, and catering on site, thereby laying the foundation for a smooth process. It was precisely this combination of clear organization, trust, and a highly focused team that made it possible to work at this level in a lively city like Zurich.
This project was no ordinary drone job. It was intense, demanding, and visually uncompromising—and for us, it was the perfect opportunity to show that high-end aerial photography at an international series level is not only produced in Hollywood, but can also be achieved in Switzerland with the same precision, attitude, and cinematic quality.