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One of the biggest innovations in the world of videos and photos is drones. Even though they have been used in audiovisual productions for some time now, drones have only reached the market at more affordable prices in a few years now. Check this post which is the best drone for photos and video.
As a result of their affordable prices, drones have become increasingly present among the equipment of the most diverse photographers and filmmakers. From the most professional to the simplest of drones, they can all revolutionize the way you create videos and photos.
However, this growth in the demand for drones made the market respond by delivering a series of different models for the consumer.
So, increasingly, it becomes difficult to choose the best photo and video drone for you. To help you with this choice we brought this article with tips on how to choose the best drone for photos and video.
In addition, we also brought an exclusive list of what we consider to be the best drones on the market. Check out!
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Drone for Photo and Video?
To choose which will be the best photo and video drone for your use, you need to keep an eye on some special features. Let’s talk a little about the most important ones.
Camera
When choosing the best drone for photo and video, the first point to consider is certainly the quality of its camera. This is because several models already have the cameras attached, that is, they are already part of the equipment.
Therefore, it is extremely important to observe the image quality, since it will not be possible to change cameras. A few models offer the possibility of changing the camera. In these cases, the camera dock has exactly the measurements of an action camera like the GoPro.
Reach
Another point that can be a major limiting factor for the user is the drone’s range. When we say range we are referring to the maximum distance that the drone can move away from its control (the transmitter) without stopping giving responses to the commands given by the user.
The maximum range of drones makes a difference in the production of audiovisual material. Currently, we have measures on the market that vary from around 100 meters in simpler drones and up to 5 kilometers in professional drones.
Speed
The speed of the drone can also enable different creations at the time of shooting mainly. Generally speaking, speeds range from 36 km/h to an incredible 140 km/h.
Transmitter or Remote Control
Since the drone will take off a good remote control (or otherwise known as a transmitter) is essential.
- First, because it must not fail, losing contact with the equipment.
- Second, it needs to be used as smoothly as possible in terms of ease.
- Currently, remote control can come in a physical device in the form of a joystick or it can be a simple application.
- Although both ways are super interesting to use it is important to look at its usability and user experience when using the app or joystick.
Batteries
Batteries are also an interesting point to watch out for. That’s because it’s no use opting for the best drone for photo and video, with great range and excellent camera if it isn’t able to fly long enough. Currently, drones usually deliver a flight time of 5 to 30 minutes depending on the model.
The good news is that most drones, knowing this limitation, deliver a removable battery that can be replaced with extreme ease. In more expensive drones, batteries tend to last longer, but they are also more expensive and heavier.
Propellant
Responsible for making the drone take off, the propeller is a very important part of a drone. When choosing the best photo and video drone for you, it is interesting that it has sufficient strength and durability in its propeller. Although they are extremely sensitive parts, the propeller of drones is usually very well protected. This is because there is a danger of falls occurring that could damage both the propeller and the drone itself.
In any case, if the propeller ends up suffering damage, you can find a replacement part. Luckily for the consumer, this is not an extremely expensive or difficult piece to put on. It is generally possible to make this replacement.
Extra Accessories
Although they are in fact extras, it is of great advantage when the drone has some kind of accessory in its kit. In addition, it is possible to search for possible compatible accessories that can facilitate the use or even bring new functions to the drone. Some good extra accessory ideas are batteries and replacement parts.
Ranking: What is the Best Drone for Photos and Videos 2022?
1. DJI MAVIC 2 PRO
If you buy a complete drone, that is, one that works both for photos and videos, check out the DJI Mavic 2 Pro that allows images and videos with high quality.
Firstly, the Mavic 2 Pro is a very robust drone. When closed for transport, its size is 242mm wide, 84mm high, and 322mm long. Altogether, there are four propellers that control the drone, so more stability and precision are guaranteed during flights.
One of the great highlights of the drone is its Hasselblad model camera. That’s because its resolution is 20 megapixels and a 1-inch square CMOS. Furthermore, to control the aperture of the camera it is possible to make an adjustment from f/2.8 to f/11, that is, a very large variation. All of this, together with the 4K resolution videos, allows for extremely sharp images with good color quality.
To ensure good stabilization, producers chose to insert ten stabilizer sensors. With these sensors, in addition to reducing sudden movements in videos and images, they are also able to capture obstacles in any direction in advance. The technologies and features were chosen for the best photo and video drone are also amazing. One of them is Hyperlapse, which creates the traveling effect by changing position during a timelapse video.
Another technology is ActiveTrack 2.0. With it, it is possible to program the focus on an object that is in motion, without losing quality when moving. As well as tracing possible object routes so as not to lose sight and stop recording. Its storage is 8GB and can be hidden up to 128GB with a micro SD card.
Finally, in terms of speed, battery, and distance, the drone can reach 72 km/h, a flight of up to 31 minutes, being able to distance up to 8 km.
WHAT WE LIKE
- great hasselblad camera
- Sensors in all directions
- ActiveTrack 2.0 Technology
- hyperlapse
- Adjustable opening
- Enhanced HDR Photos
- fast download
- Various shooting modes
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- High Price
- Little storage
- Does not support 4K recording
Crave more info about the Mavic 2 Pro?
2. MAVIC 2 ZOOM
For photographers who need good image quality and also a good zoom, DJI has launched a specific drone, the Mavic 2 Zoom.
In terms of design, the Mavic 2 Zoom is very similar to the above model. One difference however is the shape of the front camera which is more rounded and also less robust than other models. Its size, when closed, is 242 mm in width, 84 mm in height, and 322 mm in length.
Already the image quality, despite still being excellent, its 12MP in photos are a little below other models. Its aperture is from f/2.8 to f/3.8 which is enough for good photos when paired with its optical zoom of up to two times or four times when adding the digital zoom that crops the image.
In filming the Mavic 2 Zoom has 4K quality at 30 frames per second, 2.7k at up to 60 frames per second, and Full HD with a frame rate that can reach 120 fps. However, you must be aware that like other models, its storage is 8 GB is not enough for recordings in 4K. Thus, it is necessary to expand with a micro SD card.
A standout technology for the best drone for photographers is its Dolly Zoom mode. With it, it is possible to use the zoom of its optical zoom while the drone flies quickly backward. This series of movements create the illusion that you are moving towards and away from the chosen object or point at the same time.
In addition to these, Hyperlapse and ActiveTrack 2.0 technologies are also present in this DJI model.
Its battery is also a positive point, as it has a duration of 31 minutes of flight. As well as its speed of 72 km/h and the great range of 8 km.
WHAT WE LIKE
- 2x optical zoom lens
- good battery life
- Dolly zoom technology
- hyperlapse
- ActiveTrack 2.0
- Compact and foldable design
- Fast, stable and smooth flight
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Intermediate color reproduction quality
- Little internal memory
3. Mavic Air Fly
For those who are not only looking for the best drone but also the best drone for 4K videos, the Mavic Air Fly also from DIJ was designed for this type of use.
This position of best drone for videos is mainly due to its ability to record in high quality up to 4K at a rate of 30 frames.
However, in addition to this feature, the gimbal chosen by DIJ added even more excellence to the product. That’s because it has a new, more robust design, it’s also less prone to damage. In this way, its range of motion is greater, without the possibility of harming the equipment.
For photos, the Mavic Air Fly with 12 MP and f/2.8 aperture loses a little quality compared to other models. Either way, the photos are still sharp, their movement is very wide, and their color reproduction is very vivid, even in photos.
In terms of size, the best drone for 4K videos is very compact, even compared to the length of some current cell phones. That’s because when it’s closed it’s 17 centimeters long and 8 centimeters wide.
Its speed and the maximum distance are other items that users should be aware of. That’s because its maximum distance is half the distance of other models, that is, 4 km. In addition, its operation after a charge lasts up to 21 minutes. These characteristics can be bad for those who want higher values.
Finally, the Mavic Air Fly has 8GB memory, with sensors on the front, sides, and also rear sensors. As well as the various image stabilizers that make filming even more continuous and pleasant to be seen.
WHAT WE LIKE
- 4K quality videos
- more efficient gimbal
- High quality of colors
- Compact
- Automated Flight Modes
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- low duration
- Shorter range
- little memory
4. DJI Spark Fly
Currently, drones are still expensive products on the market and many times beginners in the world of drones prefer less valued models in the market. Therefore, a good drone that takes amazing photos and videos but with a good cost-benefit is DIJ’s Spark Fly.
In terms of image quality, the Spark Fly has a main camera with 1/2.3 inch 12 megapixel CMOS and in addition, the video captures in a Full HD way at 30p and 3,968 x 2,976 resolution. Although it doesn’t record videos in 4K, it achieves good image quality, with sharpness and vivid colors.
A positive point that can be very effective for beginners in controlling drones is the possibility of giving commands with gestures. Although there are not many commands, it is possible to program it to take off, land, and even do some maneuvers with just gestures.
Another important feature of Spark is that it has no remote control. Thus, the general control of the drone is done through the official DJI application. However, this feature implies a very low distance of 1.6 km, since this connection is made via Wi-Fi.
Furthermore, its battery and flight speed are very efficient for its price and also for the audience it was developed for. The Spark Fly reaches a maximum speed of 50 km/h with 16 minutes of flight per charge.
Another big highlight of the best cost-effective photo and video drone is its compact size. With 143 millimeters in length, 55 in height, and a transversal measure of 170 millimeters, it is possible to store it in a backpack, without causing difficulties in transport.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Good cost-benefit
- Compact
- easy to handle
- Controllable by application
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Short battery life
- Low maximum range
- Does not record in 4K
- Full HD video
5. DJI Mavic Mini Drone
If you want to buy a drone for photos and videos that is quality and above all portable, check out the Drone DJI Mavic Mini. Its weight is 249 grams and when unfolded it measures 24.5 x 29 x 5.5 centimeters and therefore it can even be carried in a bag.
A positive point of Mavic is a support that can identify areas restricted to the drone’s flight via GPS. As well as the automatic feature that allows the drone to return to its starting point. In other words, even if you lose contact with your drone, just wait where it started, and it will come back alone.
In terms of image, its 12 MP resolution and video recordings occur in Full HD at 60 FPS. To improve stabilization, the Mavic has a motorized stabilizer with a three-axis drive, which already guarantees to smooth possible sudden movements made by the drone.
Its range is not the best, but it can reach 4 km with a speed of 46.8 km/h. Although not much, it’s enough to take pictures around. Finally, your battery lasts a good 30 minutes per recharge.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Compact
- good battery life
- localization support
- folding design
- Amazing and steady videos
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Does not record 4K videos
- Intermediate maximum distance
- Does not have internal storage
Conclusion
Anyway, now that you know better the main features of a good drone, it’s time to choose your one.
Remember that the best drone for photo and video will necessarily be the one that best suits your needs.
Also, don’t forget to get to know each of the models we present to you. Surely one of them could be the best photo and video drone for you.
