In the film and TV industry, it is key to get every shot perfect for the specific project. It is vital for the equipment used to be of modern standards as well as being able to hoist heavy materials with no issue! Entertainment crane hire has many aspects, whether you’re capturing sweeping landscapes, intense action sequences, or dramatic close-ups, the equipment you choose plays a pivotal role in bringing your vision to life. 

Seen as production for film and TV has dramatically increased in recent years, the process must be in the hands of professionals who control these mighty cranes. So, in this post, we will be covering the top tips for choosing certain cranes for unique productions!

Most people love a good movie or show. We love them for different reasons and not one is a carbon copy of the other. The shots will be different, the angles, smoothness, etc. Here is where understanding the goal of your project comes into play. Some cranes are designed for long reaches, while others specialise in compact areas or extreme heights. Knowing your needs will make the decision easier – you may be aiming for an area to shoot that is impossible to achieve without certain cranes.

The choice of crane depends on the specific needs of the shot, location, and production scale. Let's take a look at what ranges of cranes suit this media industry:

Mobile Cranes:

Nowadays, mobile cranes are especially useful for film and TV productions because they combine mobility with power. They are capable of lifting heavy camera rigs or equipment, allowing filmmakers to achieve those iconic sweeping or aerial shots without needing to be in a fixed location or using more expensive or difficult-to-transport cranes. Their flexibility makes them an excellent choice for both outdoor and indoor shoots.

They can be easily relocated to different angles, allowing crews to quickly adapt to changing production requirements. Additionally, mobile cranes are ideal for handling the logistics of outdoor and on-location shoots where the flexibility to reposition and adjust quickly is crucial.

Tower Cranes

While typically used in construction, tower cranes can sometimes be used in film and TV productions, particularly for aerial shots over large sets or locations. These cranes have a vertical structure that offers excellent height, allowing for dramatic, high-angle shots. Tower cranes are ideal for large-scale productions and can support heavier camera rigs. However, their setup and transport can be more time-consuming and costly than mobile cranes.

Jib Cranes

Jib cranes are smaller, more lightweight cranes used for capturing fluid and sweeping shots with less complicated setups. Jibs are often used in tight spaces or when a full-sized crane isn’t practical. A jib can be mounted on a vehicle, such as a truck, or be operated from a stationary position. They’re often favored for their flexibility and ease of setup, and they're commonly used in film and TV for capturing smooth vertical and horizontal camera movements. 

Two of the most famous crane shots in film that have had a profound impact are from “The Godfather" (1972) and “Goodfellas" (1990). Both scenes exemplify how a crane shot can create a dramatic, visually striking moment that would be impossible to achieve in the same way without the use of this technique.

Here are the scenes we mean by this as well as why cranes have an impact and make the scene why it is memorable:

 The Godfather (1972) – The Opening Wedding Scene

The crane shot in The Godfather pulls back from a close-up of Amerigo Bonasera to reveal the full wedding scene. This shot is iconic because it establishes the immense power and reach of the Corleone family in a single, fluid movement. The gradual pullback emphasises the scale of the world within the movie, visually setting the tone for the entire story. The crane allows for a sweeping view that creates a sense of grandeur and intimacy simultaneously, showcasing the family’s authority while drawing the audience into the personal drama of the characters. 

Without the crane, the shot would feel static, and the tension of the scene wouldn't be as effectively built through visual storytelling.

Goodfellas (1990) – The Copacabana Entrance

In Goodfellas, the crane shot follows Henry Hill through the back halls of the Copacabana nightclub, creating a seamless experience that pulls the audience into the action. The fluidity of the crane shot mirrors Henry's rising status and the intoxicating power of the mafia lifestyle. The shot's smooth, continuous movement emphasises Henry’s control, drawing viewers into his world with a sense of privilege. A crane was essential here, as its ability to move both horizontally and vertically allows for the uninterrupted tracking of characters, intensifying the impact of Henry’s moment of glory. 

Without it, the scene would lack its immersive, almost dream-like quality.

Here at NMT Crane Hire, our highly skilled team of experienced professionals can provide you with the perfect crane for any entertainment job you are undertaking. We are one of the UK’s leading companies in crane hire and we have spent the last 40 years building a reputation for being dependable and trustworthy. 

We have been involved in the production of films such as Quantum of Solace, Gravity, Fast and Furious 6, World War Z, and Pirates of the Caribbean. As well as assisting on shows with TV’s favorites…Ant & Dec! Click here to find out more about NMT film & TV cranes.

If you would like to get in contact with NMT Crane Hire, please feel free to get in touch by filling out our online inquiry form or by giving us a call at 0800 026 6985.