- AIRWOLF
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
The all-new 2026 Subaru Outback demands a bold introduction, and AIRWOLF Drones was honored to help make it happen. For the fourth time, we partnered with Subaru and director Anthony Dias to create a visually stunning commercial shot in the dramatic landscape of Utah. With a DJI Inspire 3 and FPV drones in hand, we brought power, motion, and adventure to life, just in time for the vehicle’s debut at the New York Auto Show.
Our Fourth Time Working with Subaru, and It Keeps Getting Better
It’s always a good day when Subaru is on the call sheet. Over the years, we've developed a creative rhythm with their team Damon Productions, and each project feels like an invitation to raise the bar. This fourth commercial was no exception, it challenged us creatively and technically, while letting us showcase what drone technology can really do.
Collaborating Again with Director Anthony Dias
Working with Anthony Dias is a masterclass in visual storytelling. He approaches every project with a clear and intentional vision, knowing exactly how each frame should feel and flow. What makes Anthony truly stand out is his ability to communicate that vision while giving us the creative freedom to fly with purpose. Over the course of several Subaru commercials, we’ve built a strong foundation of trust and collaboration. That trust allows us to push boundaries, experimenting with bold camera movements, dynamic energy shifts, and creative angles that elevate each scene. With Anthony at the helm, every aerial shot becomes part of a larger narrative, not just a beautiful image.
DJI Inspire 3 and FPV: The Gear Behind the Outback Shoot
Filming the 2026 Subaru Outback with DJI Inspire 3 allowed us to achieve dynamic hero shots and landscape reveals, taking full advantage of its 8K 60fps capabilities and advanced dual capablities. To capture the raw energy of the Outback in motion, we paired it with agile FPV drones, perfect for chasing the car through winding roads and tight curves. This dual-drone approach gave the production a unique cinematic feel that would be hard to achieve any other way.
When Things Go Wrong on Set: Backup Drones and Quick Fixes
Even the most prepared crews run into tech issues—and this shoot was no exception. Early in the day, our alpha FPV quad suddenly stopped responding, and to make things worse, our Crossfire system wouldn’t connect. With no time to troubleshoot, we made the call to switch to our bravo FPV drone to keep production moving. It wasn’t our primary rig, but it got the job done and allowed us to finish flying for the day.
Later, after reviewing the gear, we discovered the culprit: a pulled wire from the flight controller. A quick solder job got us back in business for the next day of shooting. It’s a reminder that in high-pressure, on-location shoots, having backup drones and a calm, problem-solving mindset is just as critical as having the right camera package.
Behind the scenes
Filming in Utah in January: Cold Without Snow
Utah’s rugged terrain was the ideal backdrop, but winter gave us some curveballs. Despite expecting snow, we were met with dry, frozen conditions, and temperatures that dropped well below freezing. The cold affected everything from our drone batteries to pilot dexterity, but we adapted with extra gear prep, battery warmers, and a “get-it-done” mindset. In the end, the conditions helped us capture a raw, authentic look that matched the Outback’s spirit.
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Premiering the 2026 Outback at the New York Auto Show
After weeks of shooting and post, the final commercial premiered at the New York Auto Show, Subaru’s biggest stage for unveiling their latest innovation. Seeing our drone footage help set the tone for a national campaign is one of the most rewarding parts of the job. It reminds us that these aren’t just car commercials, they’re cinematic moments tied to real-world excitement.
Why Drones Like the DJI Inspire 3 Are Essential for Car Commercials
Drones are no longer just “nice to have”, they're essential for storytelling in the automotive space. With the DJI Inspire 3, we can deliver Hollywood-quality footage without cranes, jibs, or helicopters. And with FPV, we unlock perspectives that give the audience a front-row seat to performance. This project proved once again that drones aren’t a trend, they’re the future of filmmaking.
Pushing Limits with the 2026 Subaru Outback
From the icy backroads of Utah to the bright lights of the New York Auto Show, filming the 2026 Subaru Outback was a journey of grit, precision, and passion. Every frame captured reflected not just the capabilities of the Outback, but the dedication of a team committed to excellence, even in the face of extreme conditions and tight turnarounds. We’re proud to work with brands like Subaru, visionary directors like Anthony Dias, and top-tier production crews like Damon Productions team, who all share a belief in the power of drone cinematography to tell bold, compelling stories. When creativity, technology, and trust align, incredible things happen. Wherever the next road leads, AIRWOLF will be ready to fly higher, faster, and more creatively than ever before.
A COLLECTION OF OUR FAVORITE SHOTS
See the live reveal of the all-new 2026 Outack and Outback Wilderness
Want to see the gear we use on set? Check out our curated selection of drones, accessories, and filmmaking essentials on our Amazon Store.
