Back in September 2024, we got a tip-off that basking sharks were swimming off Loop Head in County Clare. As luck would have it, we had a last-minute cancellation that week, so we packed up the gear, threw two camping chairs and enough food for four people into the car, and made a break for the coast at 4am.

We’ve always wanted to capture drone footage of basking sharks, but because they’re a protected species in Ireland, you can’t just show up and fly. Before we even left Cork, we had to apply for permission from the Irish Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and submit a detailed method statement and risk assessment.

This outlined everything from how long each flight could last, what altitude we’d maintain above the water, and what steps we’d take if the shark showed any signs of stress or disturbance. We even had backup safety procedures in place - two controllers connected at all times, dual batteries on the DJI Inspire 2, and strict limits to make sure the sharks came first, the footage second.

With permission granted, we spent the day sitting on the cliffs with our binoculars, waiting. And then it happened.

Not only did the basking sharks swim right below us, but they began breaching - leaping partially out of the water. From what we’ve since learned, this behaviour could either be part of a mating ritual or an attempt to remove lampreys attached to their bodies (if you watch carefully in the reel, you’ll actually spot them).

We captured it all from above with the Inspire 2, and later that evening we cut the footage into a short reel. Within hours it started to take off. Today, it’s our most viral video ever:

• 625,000+ views
• 52,100 likes
• 750+ comments
  The comments section blew up, with people debating the behaviour, sharing their own shark encounters, and celebrating just how special it is to have these giants off the Irish coast.

This shoot reminded us of why we do what we do - sometimes, the best content comes from seizing the moment. A cancellation became an opportunity, and a single day on the cliffs turned into our most widely-seen piece of content to date.

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From viral wildlife reels to branded campaigns, we know how to plan, shoot, and edit content that resonates. If you’re looking for cinematic video production in Cork, Clare, or anywhere in Ireland, let’s talk about your next project.