Behind the Scenes of the Wills Bros Naver Bridge Build Timelapse Project

Capturing the construction of a major infrastructure project like the Naver Bridge in Bettyhill, northern Scotland, requires more than just cameras and drones. It demands careful planning, strict safety measures, and a deep understanding of the site’s challenges. For the Wills Bros team, this meant setting up a timelapse camera and using drone footage to create a promotional video that highlights their expertise and dedication. Alongside this, we also took on-site photography to provide the company with valuable images for their own advertising needs.

This blog post takes you behind the scenes of this exciting project, sharing how we managed to document the build despite tough weather conditions and strict health and safety requirements. You’ll learn about the equipment used, the safety protocols followed, and the unique challenges of filming in the Scottish Highlands.

Setting Up the Timelapse Camera on Site

The first step was to install a timelapse camera that could capture the entire construction process over several weeks. Choosing the right location was critical. We needed a spot with a clear, unobstructed view of the bridge site, while also ensuring the camera was safe from damage or theft.

The camera was mounted on a sturdy platform with a wide-angle lens to cover the full span of the bridge. It was programmed to take photos at regular intervals throughout the day, providing a detailed visual record of the build from start to finish.

The remote location in Bettyhill posed some challenges. The weather can change rapidly, and the camera had to withstand strong winds, rain, and even storms. To protect the equipment, we used weatherproof casings and secured all mounts firmly. Regular checks ensured the camera stayed operational without interrupting the construction work.

Using Drone Footage to Showcase the Build

Drone filming added a dynamic perspective to the project. From high above, the drone captured sweeping views of the bridge’s progress and the surrounding landscape. This aerial footage was essential for the promotional video, showing the scale and complexity of the build in a way ground-level shots could not.

Flying drones on an active construction site requires careful coordination with the site managers.

We scheduled flights during safe windows when crane operations and heavy machinery were paused. This minimised risks and ensured compliance with health and safety rules.

The drone pilot was a certified operator, fully aware of the site’s safety requirements and local regulations. The footage was captured in high resolution, allowing for detailed shots that highlight the craftsmanship and engineering involved.

Health and Safety: A Priority Throughout the Project

Working on a construction site, especially in challenging weather, demands strict adherence to health and safety protocols. At the Naver Bridge project, every person on site held a valid CSCS card, confirming their training and competence.

Before entering the site, all team members completed site inductions to familiarise themselves with the specific hazards and rules. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, high-visibility jackets, and safety boots were mandatory at all times.

Risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) were prepared and followed closely. These documents outlined the potential risks and the steps taken to reduce them, including safe working distances from machinery and emergency procedures.

The project took place during a storm, which added complexity to maintaining safety. Work was paused during the worst weather, and equipment was secured to prevent accidents. This careful planning ensured that filming and photography could continue without compromising anyone’s safety.

Capturing On-Site Photography for Wills Bros

In addition to the timelapse and drone footage, we took detailed photographs of the team and the construction process. These images serve multiple purposes: they document the project’s progress, showcase the skills of the Wills Bros team, and provide material for future advertising campaigns.

Photographing on an active site requires flexibility and awareness. We captured candid moments of workers operating machinery, close-ups of structural elements, and wide shots of the bridge framework. Each photo was taken with attention to composition and lighting, making sure the images tell a clear story.

The photos highlight the teamwork and precision involved in building the Naver Bridge. They also reflect the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, with the bridge rising against a backdrop of hills and stormy skies.

Overcoming Challenges in a Remote Location

Bettyhill’s remote location in northern Scotland presented logistical challenges. Transporting equipment, coordinating with the construction team, and dealing with unpredictable weather required careful planning.

Power supply for the timelapse camera was managed using solar panels and battery backups, ensuring continuous operation without relying on the site’s infrastructure. Communication with the Wills Bros team was maintained through regular site visits and remote updates.

The stormy weather tested the resilience of both the equipment and the crew. At times, strong winds forced temporary halts in filming and construction. These pauses were used to review footage and plan the next steps, making the most of every available moment.

The Final Promotional Video and Its Impact

The timelapse footage combined with drone shots and on-site photography resulted in a compelling promotional video for Wills Bros. The video clearly shows the transformation of the site as the bridge takes shape, highlighting the company’s expertise and commitment to quality.

This visual story helps Wills Bros connect with clients and stakeholders by providing a transparent view of their work. It also serves as a valuable record of the project for future reference.

The success of this project demonstrates how careful planning, respect for safety, and creative filming techniques can come together to produce powerful content, even in challenging environments.

The Naver Bridge timelapse project was a rewarding experience that combined technical skill, safety awareness, and creative storytelling. It shows how documenting construction projects can go beyond simple recording to become a tool for communication and celebration of craftsmanship.