Chris Tangey’s Drone Films Showcase Australia’s Outback at World Expo 2025

Alice Springs cinematographer Chris Tangey‘s drone films are captivating global audiences at the Australia Pavilion during World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, which opened on April 13, 2025. His nine short films, displayed on massive 39.4 ft by 19.7 ft (12 m by 6 m) screens, highlight Australia’s diverse landscapes and Wildlife, aligning with the pavilion’s theme, “Chasing the Sun.” Tangey’s work, particularly the groundbreaking Living in Australia, marks a milestone in Drone cinematography, offering a fresh perspective on sustainable storytelling.

A New Era of Wildlife Filmmaking

Tangey’s Living in Australia, a 4.5-minute film, is touted as “the first wildlife film in the world that I know of that’s shot entirely by drone,” he told ABC News. This technical feat required navigating unpredictable wildlife behaviors, with Tangey noting, “Some species react to the drone all the same, and others, like emus, can do anything.” Challenges included respecting wildlife boundaries, as drones have faced attacks from eagles and even a crocodile in Darwin in 2021. His approach blends precision and artistry, requiring operators to monitor both the drone and its screen simultaneously—what Tangey calls “shooting with both eyes open.”

Technical Mastery in Drone Cinematography

Tangey’s films leverage advanced Drone Technology to capture the Australian outback’s vibrant colors and dynamic light, honed over 37 years in Alice Springs. The high-resolution footage, optimized for large-scale displays, demands stable flight control and sophisticated camera systems. Industry experts recognize such work as pushing the boundaries of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), where payload capacity, battery life, and obstacle avoidance are critical. Tangey’s success underscores the growing role of drones in professional filmmaking, with the global drone market projected to reach $63 billion by 2025, driven by media and entertainment applications.

Australia Pavilion’s Sustainable Vision

The Australia Pavilion, designed with reusable materials from past international events, embodies the Expo’s theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” Tangey’s films complement this by showcasing Australia’s natural heritage, encouraging sustainable tourism. However, the Expo faces scrutiny over its $21 billion (¥3 trillion) economic impact projections and construction delays, raising questions about the long-term viability of such events.

Regulatory and Ethical Considerations

Drone cinematography operates under strict regulations, particularly in sensitive environments. In Australia, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority mandates permits for commercial drone use near wildlife, balancing creative freedom with ecological responsibility. Tangey’s respectful approach aligns with these standards, but incidents like a drone detected near the Chinese pavilion highlight ongoing security concerns at the Expo.

DroneXL’s Take

Tangey’s work at World Expo 2025 elevates drone cinematography from niche to mainstream, showcasing UAVs’ potential to tell compelling, sustainable stories. His technical innovation and environmental sensitivity set a benchmark for professionals and hobbyists alike. Yet, the industry must address regulatory complexities and public skepticism about drone safety to maintain momentum. Tangey’s films not only promote Australia but also inspire the next generation of drone pilots to blend artistry with responsibility.

Photos courtesy of ABC News / Xavier Martin / Chris Tangey