6 drones that take photography to new heights
If you’re looking to elevate your content creation, these drones will help you capture that perfect aerial shot.
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Whether you’re a novice or a pro when it comes to photography and content creation, camera drones offer an entirely new creative experience.
While some are little more than expensive toys, there are plenty of options that boast high-end camera technology, allowing you to snap and shoot unique perspectives in high resolution.
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Many drones also now include advanced features such as impressive stabilisation systems, large sensors and extended battery lives. That said, the best drone for you will likely depend on your budget and skill level.
To help you find one to suit, we’ve rounded up six of the best options available to Australians below, based on real customer ratings and our own knowledge of the products.
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BEST CAMERA DRONES
DJI Mini 2, Amazon Australia, $738
If you’re only looking to dip a toe into the world of drone photography, DJI’s Mini 2 is an ideal purchase. In addition to being extremely highly-rated, the ultra-compact model is a less expensive option that still includes a 4K camera. Despite its size, the Mini 2 is able to stand up to pricier rivals in terms of battery life, with a surprising flight time of 30 to 31 minutes.
Similar to the Mavic Pro 2 (above), it does have some issues taking off from grass and other non-flat surfaces and also only ships with one included battery. However, it does offer a great selection of modes for both beginner and professional snappers, such as automated ‘QuickShot’ modes, Auto Exposure Bracketed shots and raw photo shooting, giving you plenty of opportunity to grab that perfect snap.
DJI Air 2S, Amazon Australia, $1,147
Those looking to go pro can look instead to DJI’s Air 2S, which is essentially a premium version of the Mavic Air 2. The Air 2S enjoys the same compact design as the Mavic Air 2, but is fitted with the same 20MP 1-inch sensor as found in the Mavic 2 Pro, allowing it 5.4K/30fps and 4K/60fps video capabilities.
With a digital zoom option, a wide variety of automated camera shots and a flight time of up to 31 minutes too, the Air 2S manages to fit a huge amount of features into its slim, streamlined design.
DJI Mavic Mini SE, The Good Guys, $459
While it may not impress tech enthusiasts, DJI’s Mavic Mini SE is a big step up from toy drones, while remaining an affordable choice for hobbyists. The palm-sized model weighs less than 249 grams, making it about the same weight as the average smartphone. Because of this, it’s not only extremely portable, but it is also exempt from certain regulations in many countries, making it a great travel buddy.
Its 2.7K video resolution isn’t overly impressive, but it will do the trick for those looking to create social media content. It is missing forward collision sensors, but its other on-board sensors and 3-axis camera stabiliser prevent video from becoming shaky and allows the drone to hover with ease.
Autel Robotics EVO II, Amazon Australia, $2,339
Boasting a flight time of up to 40 minutes, Autel Robotics’ EVO II has the longest lasting battery of any camera drone we considered. With its orange and black design, the model is a far cry from DJI’s line of minimalist drones, though it does make it easier to spot when it lands. While it isn’t the most lightweight model to grace this list, the EVO II’s Hyperlapse 8K photography capabilities and autonomous options make it worth the additional weight for those who want a professional model with more control.
Recording in resolutions up to 7680x4320, the EVO II also allows you to zoom in deep and crop an image or video to 4K without any loss in quality, which is certainly a nice touch. While 8K shooting is limited to 25fps, the model makes a nice alternative to some of DJI’s more premium designs.
PowerVision PowerEgg X Wizard, eBay Australia, $1,799
Water and drones typically don’t mix, but PowerVision’s PowerEgg X Wizard will happily get a little wet. The unique egg design is encased in waterproof housing, allowing you to fly it through the rain without worrying about it sizzling. It can also land on water, making it ideal for those looking to take some truly impressive landscape shots.
Unfortunately, the waterproof casing does affect the image quality, but it’s worth noting that it can be removed whenever it isn’t needed. The model is also able to be used as a drone, a camcorder or as an autonomous AI camera, with all three modes using a 4K camera with 3-axle stabilisation, face detection and SyncVoice technology.
AUSTRALIA’S RECREATIONAL DRONE RULES
While drones can capture some amazing shots, it’s important to remember that aerial photography can invade the privacy of others and, in some circumstances, even be dangerous. To keep you and others safe, we’ve listed the main drone rules for Australians below.
You can also head to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority section on the Australian Government website for more information.
- You must not fly your drone higher than 120 metres above ground level.
- You must keep your drone at least 30 metres away from other people.
- You must not fly over or above people or in a populous area. This includes beaches, parks, events, or sporting oval where a game is in progress.
- Respect the privacy of others. Don’t record or photograph people without their consent.
- You must keep your drone within your visual line-of-sight. This means always being able to see the drone with your own eyes.
- If your drone weighs more than 250 grams, you must fly at least 5.5 kilometres away from a controlled airport. You can use a drone safety app to find out where you can and can’t fly.
- You must only fly during the day and not through clouds or fog.
- If you become aware of manned aircraft nearby, you must manoeuvre away and land your drone as quickly and safely as possible.
- You must not fly your drone over or near an area affecting public safety or where emergency operations are underway.
- If you intend to fly your drone for or at work (commercially), there are extra rules you must follow. You will also need to register your drone and get a licence or accreditation.
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