In recent years, drones for filming have come a long way with improved mechanisms and high-resolution cameras. Filmmakers both amateur and professional have taken notice.
From magnificent landscape shots to action packed boat and car chases, drones have become an integral part of movie making.
In the past, filmmakers were forced to use helicopters, zip lines, or even cranes to get that aerial shot which adds more excitement in a film. Obviously, back then, it cost a lot more than what it is now to get that aerial scene in the movie.
The video quality from these little cameras, attached to the drones themselves, have drastically improved over the years.
From a simple 3MP camera to a 4K capable action camera, filmmaking has never been so filled with options when it comes to shooting aerial scenes. Drones are definitely shaping what the film industry will be like in the future.
Drones For Filming
So what type of drones do these creative filmmakers use to create their masterpiece? Here are 9 of the best drones for filming on the market today.
1. DJI T600 Inspire 4K Quadcopter
An ideal drone to use for aerial shots, the DJI T600 Inspire 4K Quadcopter has a lightweight and smooth aerodynamic design that allows it to move smoothly through the skies to capture those great shots.
Transmitting videos and photos at a distance of 2 kilometers is really impressive.
The 4K ultra HD camera allows you to capture crisp-high quality shots worthy of filming. A 3-axis gimbal holds the camera super steady. It can even snap 12MP photos.
The only thing that needs to be improved is the duration of air time per battery pack (18 minutes average). But this is just a minor turn-off, since you can always carry an extra battery with you.
2. DJI Phantom 4 Quadcopter
With its slow-motion capture at 120fps, this camera is widely used for special effects. It also comes with software, wherein you can edit and add music and text to videos. This is one the features that have attracted different types of filmmakers.
A special feature called ActiveTrack allows this drone to follow the subject even without a GPS tracker. All it takes is a simple tap on the app and choose which subject to follow, this will automatically respond and maintain safe distance.
The camera’s image quality has been improved from the previous release, the Phantom 3. They have reduced the chromatic aberration by 56% and 36% on lens distortion. It can capture crisp videos at 1080p FHD/120fps.
Check out this video made using a DJI Phantom:
DRONES FOR FILMING
What Are Drones?
Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) that can fly autonomously or be remotely controlled.
They can carry out a number of tasks such as surveillance, search, and rescue operations.
They are often used in the fields of journalism, filmmaking, or agriculture. Drones have become widely popular due to their ease of use and low cost.
3. YI Erida By YI Technology
One of the most promising recent drones is the lightning speed carbon fiber drone YI Erida by YI Technology.
With its capacity to reach speeds of 75 miles per hour (120km/h), this drone is useful for action sequences like car chases.
The Erida was labeled as the fastest Tri-copter on the market today. Combined with the world’s first 4K/60fps, the YI 4K+ action camera will give you the best video quality for your project.
It is said to have up to 40 minutes of air time. With its carbon fiber body, it is 5 times stronger than conventional metal framed drones and 2/3 less heavy.
Equip it with YI 4K+ which is probably the best action camera to date, the YI Erida looks extremely awesome. I’m sure we’ll be seeing more from them in the future!
4. 3DR Solo Drone Quadcopter
Though this drone does not come with an action camera, what’s good about it is that you can attach any type of camera depending on your drone filmmaking needs.
It’s also worth noting that this drone comes with two computers that bring many advanced features to the table.
This drone doesn’t come with a camera, but can be fitted with something like GoPro cameras, or anything else. Up to 20 minutes of flight time, for a $300 drone…this is a good catch!
5. DJI Mavic Pro
A lightweight drone that’s also portable makes carrying it to film locations easier. What’s so special is that the DJI Mavic Pro folds into a size of a milk carton, but packs 4K and HD resolution.
With its FlightAutonomy technology, it avoids obstacles for a worry-free safer flight. It can transmit a signal up to 7 kilometers and still FCC-compliant. It is simply small and wonderful!
6. DJI Phantom 4 Pro
One of the best features that the DJI Phantom 4 Pro has is its longevity in the air. This drone can stay up there for 30 minutes!
With its improved battery life and high-quality videos and photos, it’s no wonder a number of filmmakers make use of the DJI Phantom 4 Pro.
DRONES FOR FILMING
Advantages of Using Drones For Filming
• Allows for filming with great angles and unimaginable shots.
• Create captivating video footage.
• Get aerial views of places that weren’t possible before.
• 3D modeling and rendering in real-time.
• Fly without restrictions, complexity or bureaucracy.
• Lower production costs (time, energy).
7. Gopro Karma
Another portable camera with a 3-kilometer range, this drone also comes with an image stabilizer. This means that it’s good for action shots and fast paced videos.
For filmmakers who are on the go, it also comes with an excellent app to edit video after you’ve filmed them. Maybe not great for all pros, but an interesting option, nonetheless.
Although this drone had a bad start when it was released due to the first batch’s technical flaw, it is still one of the best drones you can buy. And it’s easy to fly and operate, thanks to its 4 autonomous modes.
The camera sits on its nose connected with a gimbal, which you can easily detach and attach to a Karma Grip (which comes with it).
8. Parrot Mambo
A drone for beginners and those on a tight budget, this cheap but effective drone is equipped with great stability functions.
It’s a good entry-level drone as it’s a great drone to practice on before you go and use other tougher-to-master and more complicated drones.
If you plan on shooting video indoors, then the Parrot Mambo is built for that.
9. Airselfie
A drone that fits in your pocket, the AirSelfie is perfect for documentaries and adding a unique perspective to your filmmaking.
It’s actually built for innovative ways to take selfies, but it can also be used for filming interviews and documentaries.
Drones For Filming – Conclusion
So whenever you see high-speed chases and daring camera work on movies and television, don’t be surprised as it’s highly possible that these works of art you have just watched are products of one of the best drones for filming featured here.
This article was written by George Finlayson of YI Technology. YI Technology is committed to using innovative technology to make everyday life safer, richer and more fun. The site has a pretty unique Facebook group that’s a strong community of digital camera and drone fans.
So has this inspired you to get a drone? Do you already have a drone that you use for filmmaking? Let us know in the comments below.
From recent YouTube videos as of early May, DJI is planning a Phantom 4 “Advanced” that bridges between the Pro and the 4. It cuts the price by a few hundred by taking away the side obstacle sensors. Should be a good way to get more DJI purchases by lowering the price and still offering a solid product.
Great info, Jeff. Thanks for the comment.
Cheers,
Matt
Thanks Filmmaking Lifestyle!I love drone.
Cheers, Drone guy.
Dope guide!
Thanks, Alex! Much appreciated.
First time here on your blog and it’s amazing! Really had a great time! Keep up the good work.
Is it 3dr Solo Drone quadcopter best for filmmaking?
Hi Nowshad,
Thanks for the kind words.
Yes, that’s a great drone for filming.
Thank you for your suggestion.
No probs! 🙂
For more than 30 minutes shot. Which drone you suggest ?
Hi Flying Film,
Thanks for the comment.
Most drones won’t fly longer than 30 minutes. What kind of shot would you be looking to do that lasts more than 30 mins?
Cheers,
Matt