The person behind the camera
Jim Kegley.
Las Vegas local.
Aerial cinematography with an editor’s eye, a photographer’s sense of light and a working knowledge of Las Vegas.
Experience behind the shot
Flight.
Framing.
Feeling.
Jim’s aerial work began with helicopter photography and developed into drone cinematography. As a solo operator, he combines flight and framing through coordinated dolly, boom, tilt and pan movements.
Jim’s drone experience began in 2012 as a direct importer of DJI drones in Las Vegas. He sold thousands of aircraft and provided customers with free, hands-on instruction. Over the next decade, he developed his flying and technical skills before launching Area 51 Drones’ aerial cinematography services.
In 2019, Jim was one of just two operators participating in the KLAS airspace authorization beta test. His involvement included detailed flight-area mapping and safety planning for drone operations near the Las Vegas Strip.
Jim also served as the primary drone operator documenting the Sphere’s construction over multiple years.
His background in editing and DaVinci Resolve color helps connect the camera move to the finished sequence. His film Nowhere But Las Vegas received a Telly Award.
Drone cinematography credits include Don’t F**k with Cats, The Lost Sons, Psychic Kids, STRIP and The Cult of NatureBoy. Direct clients include Hilton, CBS Sports, The Walt Disney Company, the NHL and Nike.
Area 51 Drones operates under JDK Designs, Inc. Jim works across Strip resorts, entertainment venues and the Mojave Desert, with a focus on the specific needs of the production.
Projects, roles & hiring companiesPlanning from anywhere
Your references.
Local knowledge.
Producing from outside Las Vegas? Start with visual references, locations, dates and delivery requirements. Jim can help you think through crew, camera movement and the practical details before you arrive.