Are you a professional photographer looking to up your game and take breathtaking shots from unique angles with the help of drones? Have you ever thought of incorporating drones into your photography sessions or projects? With the advancements in technology and accessible cost, drones have become increasingly popular tools for capturing creative shots. Whether it’s landscape photography or aerial footage, drone-captured images can provide a unique aesthetic and perspective that standard cameras cannot reach. As such, finding the right drone with the right set of features is essential if you’re hoping to succeed as a competent photographer in today’s world. In this article, we will be examining some of the best drones for photography available on the market today!

What Is The Best Drone For Photography?

There is no definitive answer to this question, and everyone has their own opinions. However, the good thing is there are a lot of options. My favourite drone is the DJI Air 2S, its small elegant design and powerful features make it a fantastic drone for photography. The DJI Air 2S can capture images in 20MP and records HD videos in 5k, 4k and 2.7k. The drone has multiple photography modes, including panorama, HDR and AEB.

This is not an exhaustive list; there are so many good drones for professional aerial photography that it was hard for me to choose which ones to include and which ones to leave out.

If you dislike any of the drones on this list (unlikely!), check out my list of the best drones with a camera. I also update this list as often as possible because the drone industry moves fast, and there is always a new high-end drone release every few months. The list below reflects some of the best drones for photography on the market today.

A good camera’s key features are its sensor size, ISO range, aperture, shutter speed and dynamic range.

According to the popular photography website digital photography school, the size of a camera sensor is one of the most important attributes regarding photo quality.

Larger sensors produce better pictures with better overall resolution and greater dynamic range. They capture more light, especially if you want to take photos in a low-light environment.

For this reason, I have ordered the list based on the size of the image sensor. Of course, the image sensor size isn’t everything and the final quality of your images will depend upon your overall skill as a photographer.

Is Drone Photography Worth It?

I believe It is worth purchasing a drone for photography, especially if you are a professional photographer looking to expand your photography services. You must research and choose the drone that meets your requirements and budget. Most of the drones on this list range in price from $600- $3000. But with a wide range of available options, finding the best drones for photography can take time and effort. Many models these days come with advanced camera features such as large image sensors, HDR capability, 3-axis gimbal stabilisation, lossless zoom etc. In addition, these drones all come with advanced flight features such as autonomous flight modes, automatic return-to-home features, an obstacle avoidance system and long flight times. All of which makes it much easier to capture stunning drone photography.

If you want to fly drones for commercial reasons or make money through your drone, you will be required to obtain a Part 107 certificate from the FAA. This is a 2-hour exam that covers a wide range of topics related to aviation rules and will require students to achieve at least 70% from a total of 60 questions.

There are many Part 107 prep guides and courses that will give you a better chance at passing the first time.

Some popular courses include Pilot Institute, Dart Drones and Ground Pilot School. There are also well-received courses on the popular online education platform Udemy.

best drones for photography

Best Drones For Photography

1. DJI Mavic 3

Best drones for photographyThe DJI Mavic 3 is widely considered one of the best drones for photography. It has impressive features, including the Hasselblad-engineered camera that has a 4/3 CMOS sensor with 12.8 stops of dynamic range, adjustable aperture, and captures images in 20MP. The camera incorporates Hasselblads Natural Colour Solution technology that captures the most accurate colours at the push of a button. With its large sensor, higher dynamic range and adjustable aperture, the camera is excellent for capturing nighttime photography. The camera can record 5.1k videos at 50fps, DCI 4k at 120fps and 4k at 120fps. With the Cine drone version, you can encode videos with Apple ProRes 422 HQ,422 & 422 LT. The DJI Mavic 3 has a second zoom camera that can capture 12MP images and 4k videos. The drone has a flight time of 46 minutes, making it one of the best drones with the longest flight times, giving you more time to capture your perfect videos and photos.

Additionally, you have several advanced features that allow you to capture cinematic videos autonomously with its Quickshots and MasterShots feature. The drone also comes with an omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system and several intelligent flight modes and has a transmission range of 15km. With so many great benefits, it’s no wonder the DJI Mavic 3 is one of the best drones for photographers.

 

Key Features

    • 4/3 sensor with adjustable aperture and 84º FOV
    • 20MP images
    • Hasselblad Natural Colour Technology
    • 12.8 stops of dynamic range
    • Records videos in 5.1k at 50fps, DCI 4k at 120fps & 4k at 120fps
    • Omnidirectional Obstacle avoidance technology
    • Intelligent flight modes
    • 46 minutes of flight time
    • 15km transmission range

2. DJI Air 2S

best drones for photographyThe DJI Air 2S is an especially attractive option for drone enthusiasts interested in aerial photography. This drone comes with many of DJI’s innovative features, such as a professional camera, OcuSync long-range transmission, and a 4-way obstacle detection system that takes the user experience to a new level. The camera is equipped with a 1-inch sensor that captures images in stunning 20MP and records 5.4k videos at 30fps. You can record videos in HDR with its 10-bit Dlog-M colour profile and capture HDR images with its SmartPhoto feature. The drone also has Quickshots and Mastershots, and these features make it easier than ever before to take breathtaking aerial videos at the push of a button. Finally, the Air 2S has a flight time of 31 minutes and a maximum transmission range of 12km. The drone is one of the cheapest for aerial photography and is worth its price.

 

Key Features

    • 1-inch CMOS sensor with fixed aperture & 88° FOV
    • 20MP images
    • SmartPhoto & Panorama photography modes
    • Records videos in 5.4k at 30fps, 4k ultra at 60fps
    • 10 Bit Dlog-M colour profile for HDR videos
    • 4-way Omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system
    • 31 minutes of flight time
    • 12km transmission range

3. DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2

best drones for photographyThe DJI Phantom 4 Pro V 2.0 is the perfect drone for professionals looking to capture unique aerial photography. This Phantom 4 was one of the first consumer drones equipped with a 1-inch image sensor camera. The drone has many advanced features, such as an omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system and automatic return-to-home technology that adds safety during any flight. The camera can record videos in 4k at 60fps and 20MP images, and a 3-axis mechanical gimbal stabilises it. The drone has several autonomous flight modes, such as Active Track, Point of Interest and TapFly. With incredible features, reliable components, and cutting-edge technology, the DJI Phantom 4 Pro V 2.0 is an excellent choice for photographers looking to take their shots to new heights.

 

Key Features

    • 1-inch CMOS sensor with adjustable aperture & 84º FOV
    • 20MP images
    • Records video footage in C4k at 60fps, 4k at 60fps
    • Dlog colour profile for HDR videos
    • 30 minutes of flight time
    • Intelligent flight modes
    • 5-way Obstacle sensing technology
    • 10km transmission range

4. Autel Evo 2 Pro

best drones for photographyThe Autel Evo 2 Pro is an excellent drone that offers photographers a range of features to help them capture beautiful aerial photos and videos. With its 6K camera, 3-axis gimbal stabilisation, foldable design, and 40 minutes of flight time, the Autel Evo 2 Pro provide users with impressive capabilities. The camera can record 6k videos at 30fps, 4k at 60fps and 2.7k at 120fps. It also has options for HDR videos and images and comes with Hyperlight technology for night time photography. Its advanced omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system keeps it from running into objects in its path, and its long-range transmission system allows for up to a 9km control distance. The Autel Evo 2 Pro has several intelligent flight modes, and its remote controller has an integrated 6.4-inch screen with an intuitive user interface for easy operation. The Autel Evo 2 Pro is an excellent choice for professional photographers.

 

Key Features

    • 1-inch CMOS sensor with adjustable aperture & 82° FOV
    • 20MP still images
    • Records videos in 6k at 30fps, 4kat 60fps and 2.7k at 120fps camera
    • 10-bit A-log colour profile
    • Support for HDR images
    • Intelligent flight modes
    • 40 minutes of flight time
    • 360° obstacle avoidance system
    • 9km transmission range

5. Autel Evo Lite Plus

best drones for photographyThe Autel Evo Lite Plus is a compact, lightweight drone designed for recreational and professional use. It is equipped with a 1-inch image sensor that allows for high-quality video and photo capture. The camera also has a 3-axis gimbal for smooth and stable footage. The camera can record video footage in 6k, 4k and 2.7k and captures HD images in 20MP. With its large sensor, adjustable aperture, high ISO range and hyperlight technology, the Evo Lite Plus is an excellent choice for nighttime photography. The drone has a range of up to 12km and can fly for up to 40 minutes on a single charge. It also has several advanced features, including obstacle avoidance, return-to-home, and intelligent flight modes such as Active Track and Orbit mode.

 

Key Features

    • 1-inch CMOS sensor with adjustable aperture & 82° FOV
    • 20MP images
    • Records videos in 6k at 30fps, 4k at 60fps, 1080p at 120fps
    • 120Mbps
    • Supports HDR images and videos
    • 3-way obstacle avoidance technology
    • Autonomous flight modes
    • 40 minutes of flight time
    • 12km transmission range

6. DJI Mavic 2 Pro

best drones for photographyThe DJI Mavic 2 Pro is a high-end consumer drone with many advanced features. It is equipped with a Hasselblad camera that captures 4K video and 20-megapixel still photos. The camera has a 1-inch CMOS sensor and an adjustable aperture, which allows for improved low-light performance and better control over the depth of field. The Mavic 2 Pro comes with an upgraded obstacle avoidance system that can sense and avoid obstacles from all sides. It has a range of up to 10km and can fly for up to 31 minutes on a single charge. The Mavic 2 Pro is compatible with the DJI GO 4 App, which allows users to access additional features such as autonomous flight modes such as waypoint and active track. You can also edit and share your images and videos. Overall, the DJI Mavic 2 Pro is a powerful and feature-rich drone suitable for various photography applications.

 

Key Features

    • 1-inch CMOS sensor with adjustable aperture & 77° FOV
    • 20MP images 
    • Records videos in 4k at 30fps, 2.7k at 60fps & 1080p at 120fps
    • 100Mbps
    • Multiple photography modes
    • 10-bit Dlog-M colour profile for HDR videos
    • Obstacle avoidance technology
    • 30 minutes of flight time
    • Intelligent flight modes
    • 10km transmission range

7. DJI Mini 3 Pro

best drones for photography The DJI Mini 3 Pro is hands down the best mini drone for photography and the best drone that weighs less than 250 grams. This tiny drone has impressive camera features, allowing you to capture stunning 4K videos and 48MP images with its 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor. You can also take advantage of up to 34 minutes of flight time and a 12km transmission range, allowing you more time and range to be incredibly creative in capturing your visuals. The drone has advanced flight modes such as Active Track 4.0, Point Of Interest 3.0 and a 3-way obstacle detection system. The Mini 3 Pro is the perfect drone for photographers, especially for those who travel a lot, as it is small and lightweight, making it easier to store and carry around.

 

Key Features

    • 1/1.3- inch CMOS sensor with fixed aperture & 82.1° FOV
    • 48MP images
    • Multiple photography modes, including Panorama, interval & AEB
    • Records videos in 4k at 60fps, 2.7k at 60fps
    • 150Mbps
    • D-Cinelike colour profile for HDR videos
    • 3-way obstacle avoidance technology
    • Intelligent flight modes
    • 30 minutes of flight time
    • 12km transmission range

8. DJI Autel Nano Plus

best drones for photography The Autel Evo Nano Plus drone is widely regarded as one of the best mini drones for photography. Its compact foldable design makes it easy to carry around and has some fantastic advanced technological features. The Autel Evo Nano Plus imaging capabilities feature a 1/1.28-inch Sony sensor with a fixed f/1.9 aperture and can capture 50MP images and record 4k video footage at 30fps and 2.7k at 30fps. The drone has multiple autonomous flight modes such as Follow Me, Orbit, Point of Interest, Waypoint Mission Planning and Active Track. The Autel Evo Nano Plus also provides an excellent battery life of up to 28 minutes, and the drone comes with a maximum transmission range of 12km. All these features make the Autel Evo Nano Plus drone an excellent choice for any serious photographer looking to capture professional-level photos and videos.

 

Key Features

    • 1/1.28-inch CMOS sensor with fixed aperture & 85° FOV
    • 50MP still images
    • HDR images & videos
    • Records 4k videos at 30fps, 2.7k at 60fps
    • 3-way Obstacle avoidance technology
    • 28 minutes of flight time
    • Intelligent flight modes
    • 10km transmission range