Have you ever watched captivating drone shots of celebrity houses and mountain tops? Did you wonder what drone photography equipment was used to deliver that amazing quality? You are not alone!
Those perfect and high-resolution shots pique the interest of all, especially photographers. For them, a drone is no less than a passport to the sky.
Drone photography can expand photographers’ skill base and portfolio in unparalleled ways. Getting the right aerial photography equipment is thus an essential stepping stone toward mastering the art of aerial photography.
From good-quality cameras and drones to landing pads and cleaning kits, understanding the value of each piece of equipment and investing in high-quality options is crucial for long-term success in this regard. Don’t worry, we will cover all that and more as we explore the maze of drone photography.
Read along and discover more about essential drone photography equipment.
Importance of Drone Photography
Drone photography has completely revolutionized the field of aerial photography.
There is no need to place camera equipment on rooftops or use cranes to get aerial visuals of newly built societies anymore. Neither is there a need to climb to the top floor of skyscrapers to film drone shows and fireworks. Thanks to drone photography, photographers now have a hassle-free way to do it all.
Not just photographers but even consumers far and wide especially real estate professionals and customers have grown fond of drone photography. No wonder, its market has reached the value of 617.6 million US dollars globally.
It is also great for deriving revenue growth. More than half of real estate companies and agents, 61% precisely, invest in the best drones for real estate photography for market listings.
These statistics reveal just how important it has become to arm yourself with knowledge of essential drone photography equipment. Let’s get straight into it:
1. Drones
The heart of any good drone photography is a well-functioning drone. It is an aerial vehicle much like a bird but with a camera. Having one can allow you to take aerial shots and capture and film photos and videos from unique angles. Just make sure you have explored the ins and outs of ‘How to start a Drone Photography Business’ before spending your money on gear.
You can access vantage points that are otherwise difficult to reach by investing in the best drones for photography. The next thing you will have will be stunning and captivating footage.
Whether you are a beginner-level drone photographer or a professional one, these drones are the best in the game:
1. DJI Mini 3 🔗:
It is a perfect drone for all beginner-level drone photographers. If you are interested in a lightweight drone with intelligent shooting modes, this is the one for you.
Plus, priced at just $419, it can easily fit into your budget as well.
2. DJI Air 2S 🔗:
This one is more of a good fit for intermediate drone photographers. It comes with a 31-minute flight time, a high-quality camera, and a foldable design fit for aspiring photographers.
3. DJI Mavic 3 Pro 🔗:
It is one of the best-rated and highly acclaimed drones. With advanced features like 46-minute flight time, automated shooting modes, and obstacle sensing, it is the perfect choice for professional-level drone photography.
2. Cameras and Gimbals
The camera and gimbal are core parts of a drone camera.
Cameras take pictures and videos which is why the quality of your camera will set the tone for the quality of your images and videos. When choosing a camera, remember the stability, resolution, and sensor size you want to achieve. Make use of our guide, which covers the best DJI drones for drone photography. Both these things will help you choose one that best fits your needs and wants. You can choose from a range of DJI drones Here are some of the best ones:
1. Sony RXO II 🔗
Key Features
- 1-inch Sensor
- Zeiss Lens
- Electronic Stabilization
Benefits
- Compact and Strong
- High Frame Rate
- Water Resistant
2. DJI Mavic Air 2S Camera 🔗
Key Features
- High-resolution imagery
- Stunning Cinematic Footage
- Advanced obstacle-avoiding ability
Benefits
- Professional Image Quality
- Intelligent Flight Modes
- Enhanced Flight Stability
A good camera needs the support of a gimbal. It plays a key role in stabilizing the footage and ensuring smooth shots and videos by reducing the vibrations caused by the drone’s movement and flight. Here are some good recommendations:
1. RC Drone Camera Gimbal 🔗
Key features:
- Enhanced Stability
- Shock resistance
Benefits:
- Easy Installation
- Improved Video Stability
2. Holy Stone HS600 2-Axis Gimbal Drones 🔗
Key features:
- 2-axis stabilization
- Long-distance control
- Built-in remote ID
Benefits:
- High-quality image
- Reduced camera shakes
You can also learn more about the Best Photography Gear for Drone Photography here.
3. Drone Accessories
If you want to take your drone photography to the next level, invest in the best drone accessories. They will help you lengthen the life of your drone and boost your overall photographic performance. From propellers and batteries to filters and cases, all will empower you to capture captivating aerial footage.
1. Spare Propellers:
If you have been around drone photography experts you may have heard about the fragility of drone propellers. They are prone to damage and malfunctioning. That’s more because sometimes drones hit or crash into some objects and surfaces during launching or landing. It damages their propellers. Having spare propellers is thus necessary for ensuring smooth flights and photography experience. Here are some good ones:
2. Spare Batteries:
You can change or charge the batteries of traditional handheld cameras the moment you see them running out of charging. With drone cameras, the case is quite different.
You must have spare batteries so your drone doesn’t lose its power mid-flight. Having extra batteries to support the drone camera system will allow you to capture images and videos without interruptions. It is all the more important when you are shooting in locations where power sources and charging outlets are limited. These are some must-haves:
3. ND Filters:
ND filters are absolutely essential when it comes to drone accessories. They can help you avoid color distortion in your photography by controlling excess lighting. When the sun is shining bright, they come through as the perfect aerial photography equipment, helping photographers achieve balanced exposure and high-quality shots. We recommend buying these:
4. Carrying Cases for Drones:
By now it must be clear that you must protect your drone photography equipment if you are aiming for high-resolution and smooth pictures and videos. Thankfully, placing your drone equipment in specially designed drone carrying cases will help you protect them. These cases are vital for both storage and transport:
Tips and Recommendations for Creating Different Setups:
You don’t have to use all accessories together at all times. You can use different combinations for creating different setups according to your drone photography end goal. Here is how:
1. Real Estate Drone Photography Setup:
Place ND filters on your drone cameras to maintain balanced exposure as you capture property shots and videos. Keep spare batteries and carry all equipment in a durable carrying case.
2. Travel Setup:
Place spare batteries and ND filters in a compact drone camera so you can film easily with extended drone flight time. Pack it all in a lightweight carrying case so it is easy to store and carry while you are on the go.
3. Professional Filmmaking Setup:
Choose a high-performance drone with a professional-level camera. Equip it with spare batteries, an extra set of propellers, and different types of ND filters, and place everything in a strong case. Change the filters according to your liking and without worrying about charging, shoot cinematic videos easily. This setup is best for the drone photography business.
4. Lighting Equipment
The importance of lighting equipment in drone photography can’t be understated. You must buy lighting equipment as it impressively changes image quality. It is essential when shooting in low-light conditions or at night time for greater color accuracy and detail.
1. LED lights:
LED lights are great compact and energy-efficient options for illuminating the scene as your drone shoots the subject. Here are some worth buying:
2. Strobes/Flash Lights:
Strobes or flashlights are popular choices among drone photography experts. They can be easily attached to the drone’s body and provide ample lighting for smooth and clear footage. Here are some good ones with anti-collision features and different flash modes:
- Lume Cube – Drone Strobe – Anti-Collision Lighting
- STARTRC Drone Strobe Light
- NEEWER Drone Strobe Light with 4 Flash Modes
5. Maintenance and Care
You can preserve your drone photography equipment’s functionality, durability, and longevity with proper maintenance and care. If you don’t maintain and take care of your drone equipment, you are likely to spend double the amount of money than the money you can spend now to buy some maintenance and storage products.
Cleaning and Storage Tips and Recommendations:
- Make sure you dismantle the detachable parts of the drone camera system and clean each part regularly. The weather conditions and dust can easily damage the camera body, lenses, and filters as your drone flies high in the sky. It is thus essential to clean it regularly using a good quality Professional Camera Cleaning Kit. It is a one-time expense that can save you lots of money in the long run.
- Make sure you don’t leave your drone photography equipment in the open for long when not in use. Instead, always store it in a cool and dry place where moisture and heat can not cause damage.
- For ease of carrying when you are shooting on the go, place your equipment in a carrying case like USA Gear Drone Backpack, and other times, use robust cases like Ant Mag Waterproof Hard Case for long-term storage and rough travel conditions.
6. Budgeting and Prioritizing Equipment
Going all in with the money on buying drone photography equipment won’t do you any good especially when you are on a tight budget. Instead, budgeting and prioritizing purchases carefully can help you invest in only the necessary gear that suits your skillset, budget, and goals.
Here are some tips you must follow:
- Start with the absolute essentials first like an affordable drone camera system that offers decent image quality and features.
- Always prioritize budget-friendly options in everything. For a drone camera system, you can begin with the DJI Mini 3 rather than spend five times more on the DJI Mavic 3 Pro.
- Invest in batteries, propellers, and filters first then move to lighting equipment and specific cleaning equipment later.
- Leave buying extra separate cameras for drones for later when your skills and budget grow.
- Consider buying refurbished or used models of drone photography equipment to save extra money.
- You can also rent equipment before investing to understand which models will suit your needs and skills better.
7. Compliance and Regulations
Just like airplanes and helicopters have to comply with air traffic rules and regulations, your tiny drone flying in the sky will also need to comply with certain rules and regulations. These are:
- In the US, photographers have to get a remote flying pilot certificate from the FAA, Federal Aviation Agency, to fly drones for any business purpose.
- You cannot fly your drone in an area near the airport or a designated landing area for planes and helicopters.
- You must not fly your drone above 400 ft from the ground.
- Strictly avoid flying in no-flying areas or restricted zones.
- Ask for local authorities’ permissions when capturing larger areas of land especially when your drone’s footage may invade someone’s privacy.
- For commercial real estate drone photography in the US, you will have to apply for Section 333 Exemption.
Complying with these rules can help you have a relaxing drone photography experience. Remember some of these rules vary from place to place.
For more detailed information on compliance and regulations in drone photography, check out our comprehensive guide here. Compliance and Regulations in Drone Photography
Conclusion
In the evolving and rapidly growing world of drone photography, buying the right drone photography equipment is akin to an artist selecting the right paintbrush. Your equipment will serve as the cornerstone for capturing breathtaking visuals from unique angles.
Buying high-quality equipment is so much more than just choosing equipment. It is about unleashing your full creative potential and realizing your ability to present gripping scenes from unique angles. So dare to soar high, and your drone higher, dream big, and turn them into reality by spending money on the best drone photography equipment.
Are you ready to start your drone photography adventure? Click the links above to buy our recommended products and experience firsthand the transformational effect of high-quality gear.
Let’s bring your aerial fantasies to life, one drone flight at a time!