All Things Drones

[jph3]

Per Isaguel request, here’s a specific topic for all questions around drones. By no means am I an expert, but I have had experience from the the first DJI Phantom, a couple versions of Magic’s, and now I’m toying with the Skydio2. In quick summary, the mavic is smooth and fast. The Skydio is absolutely mind-blowing with a follow me mode. I’ve taken it snowmobiling, skiing, boating, biking, rzrs... it is just awesome and works very well. No complaints beside charging the battery (have to plug in the drone itself)

If you are flying on water, I would highly recommend getting some floats off of Amazon, and just try not to fly in general in any kind of wind - it’s just not worth losing it. Something like this (I had individual floats for my Magic).
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0784TY3NG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_sW1KEb6F6W6CX


Another item to consider would be a recovery float (activates once it hits water and floats the drone to the surface)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01891TFXO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_eY1KEb7072PF2

Anyway, lots of good stuff to share... I will tell a funny story. Flying at the lake with my Mavic, went 2 miles down to another marina to take a video of a buddy on his houseboat... cop boat lights me up and starts chasing the drone (thinking I was bothering my buddy). He chased me back to our boat... I was flying fast, battery went to single digit percentage... and then literally just went black. 0%. At that point I had considered it gone (no floats)... but as it dropped my friend had reached over the back edge of the houseboat and snagged it mid air! If only I had the footage!!

Anyway, happy droning, let’s see those shots! I’ll post up some recent vids with the Skydio.


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[jph3]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200412/2b2b4c3856c93769dd93e57f4872fc18.jpg


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[Isaguel]

Great, lets keep this thread alive. That float is what I was looking for. the recovery float would not be so good as these drones are not waterproof. Once they sink, they are toast.
There are some waterproof drones like the Swellpro and the poweregg, but they are not cheap and you compromise in video quality and obstacle avoidance sensors.
I keep cpming back to Mavic. The skydio looks awesome but it looks like its more designed to function as a highly autonomous drone.

Let us know who has an interest and if you own one or plan to. Would like to hear about others experiences, interests or purchase plans.

[Dallascowboys25]

Great thread. I’ve never owned a drone but I want one now haha. Has anyone ever tried a swellpro drone. It’s says it’s waterproof?

[DNIXD99]

That's some crazy luck, with your friend catching your drone. I was really impressed with Skydio features on the web, but the battery is a bummer. I go through 3 batteries when I fly, and have considered buying more. I'll use one for each surf session. I dont like letting it get below 20% over the water.

[haknslash]

One day I’ll probably get the Sky Duo as it has amazing tracking and obstacle avoidance. Camera isn’t too bad either. I love seeing great drone footage of boats.

[jph3]

I wouldn’t worry too much about the floats vs the recovery. If you run floats and it lands on water, that thing will not last unless it is perfect glass... the recovery module is a bit better - DJI gives you one or two water swaps in their warranty options - no questions asked. I used one of mine on the mavic :)

As for the footage, just depends on what you want. If you want cinematic, mavic is easier to get... but you sacrifice follow features. The Skydio is as close as you can get to autonomous. Pull it out, turn on, turn the gps beacon on, and go. It auto-records for you too, so no need to ‘capture’ the data. It can do cinematic, but I do not have a controller. I’m sure they would be MUCH better if I did, but I’m controlling it all by phone or the beacon.

Just to be clear on the Skydio battery as well... I carry two with me. Never had an issue (get 27-28 min out of each) but I was just referencing the charging. You have to buy a separate charging dock and I opted not to... maybe I will down the road.

Here’s some footage from my mavic a couple years ago (reminder, I’m beginner status!)

https://youtu.be/lGJ_hi1IIEY

https://youtu.be/SnIajmJXzWs

Here’s some from the Skydio2 so far, just got it the last day of December in the first batch. Just different styles mainly... The snowmobile vid doesn’t show how steep the terrain is.

https://youtu.be/YkvhvkIZ-Ns

Sunset:

https://youtu.be/tK4LMnNX-vg

Playing on the sleds:

https://youtu.be/RIaKdhi2Uks

Quick water shot from yesterday:

https://youtu.be/RLGq5tFUjyQ


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[DNIXD99]

OIC...I took it as the battery wasnt removable lol. That makes more sense. I bought a separate charger that will charge all 3 batteries, and the controller at the same time. I also have the smart controller, which I like using better than my phone.

Nice vids. Im a total newb. I learned enough to be able to capture the BVI trip, and then didnt mess with it over the winter. I kinda had to relearn the controls to take it out on the boat. Still learning the proper filters, and settings to use for the weather.

Im also using Filmora9 for editing, which I really like. Its a lot to learn, but so far its been pretty user friendly, and there has been good YouTube tutorials.

[Isaguel]

DNIX, which drone do u have? I've heard of filmora. I downloaded DaVinci Resolve as I've heard good reviews and its free. Other than browsing it I have not used it for editing yet. Having good editing software is as important as having a good drone.

JPH3, those videos are pretty sweet, that footage from high above the rocky hills looking down over the lake at the boats, priceless. That's why I want one of them drones. These boats are for creating memories and experiences, so why not capture it from the best angle possible. Cant wait.

[DNIXD99]

DJI Mavic 2 Pro. I recently discovered the DJI app has a video editor with an auto feature. Its decent if you want something quick, without editing.

I looked at free software, and I believe I downloaded Davinci Resolve. I end up with Filmora9 lifetime subscription for $45. I like it. Its really easy to use, and the YouTube tutorials make it really easy to learn. For example, the latest update just added split screen. Obviously, Ive never done that before. I watched a 3min video, and instantly created a split screen video of the same footage, but different angles (gopro and drone). Ive been considering upgrading to the Pro Version.

Beginning of this video is my first, and only split screen. I think I synced them pretty good, and it was really easy.


https://youtu.be/C7QYFRgQN8g

[haknslash]

On that video first thing, nice wave on the Max! The main thing I noticed though was the video had overblown exposure with the whites and highlights being so bright you lose detail. I know it’s hard to get good exposure in cloudy conditions though but I wonder if there is a setting on your mavic that has the shot more overexposed? It could also be from your editor but not sure what all you may have adjusted in post.

[jph3]

For editing, try out the GoPro app on your phone - it’s called Quik. I download all of my drone footage to the phone, then you can select any GoPro, iPhone and drone images... it will auto edit for you and get it about 90% of the way there. I spend a few minutes editing or trimming, save the video, add my own music, then delete all the raw footage... so I have a pretty good collection of decent videos.

Even did one tonight of the sunset (still shot since I don’t upload often to YouTube)... btw, NO filter on this. That’s a whole other topic we should cover.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200414/7d799a61f4cde202df9ceeba6996dc6f.jpg


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[Isaguel]

Regarding music, do you guys pay the susbsription for licensing? I don't mean to throw anyone under the bus or cause any problems, just genuinely want to know for my own use. I find the free music on youtube is prettty lame, there are subscription services with monthly fees that have pretty good selections.

[DNIXD99]

On that video first thing, nice wave on the Max! The main thing I noticed though was the video had overblown exposure with the whites and highlights being so bright you lose detail. I know it’s hard to get good exposure in cloudy conditions though but I wonder if there is a setting on your mavic that has the shot more overexposed? It could also be from your editor but not sure what all you may have adjusted in post.

Definitely my lack of camera skills. I play with the editing to try and get the white to go away. I only see that on the water too. Sometimes I'll get incredible detail inside the boat. Other times the whole interior of the boat will be completely white. This happened on the Catamaran I rented too. I'm pretty sure it has to do with the sunlight, because I'll have a great shot, and then the boat will turn, and all the sudden it's all white. So I'm either not choosing the right lens filter, or my settings are off, or combination of both. I'm still learning.

[DNIXD99]

Regarding music, do you guys pay the susbsription for licensing? I don't mean to throw anyone under the bus or cause any problems, just genuinely want to know for my own use. I find the free music on youtube is prettty lame, there are subscription services with monthly fees that have pretty good selections.

My video editor came with some music, like the music in the video above. There are websites you can find free legal music from unknown artist. Sometimes a "popular" song goes perfect with my video tho, so I will hijack it if I need too lol. For instance, I made a snowboard video, and at the end was all of our crashes, so I "borrowed" Another One Bites the Dust by Queen.

[haknslash]

Definitely my lack of camera skills. I play with the editing to try and get the white to go away. I only see that on the water too. Sometimes I'll get incredible detail inside the boat. Other times the whole interior of the boat will be completely white. This happened on the Catamaran I rented too. I'm pretty sure it has to do with the sunlight, because I'll have a great shot, and then the boat will turn, and all the sudden it's all white. So I'm either not choosing the right lens filter, or my settings are off, or combination of both. I'm still learning.

Sounds like maybe there is an auto exposure and possibly exposure/EV (Exposure Value) compensation at work. If it's auto exposure you will see the video constantly change and adjust to the light the sensor sees. So if you're facing the sun it will dial back the exposure and if it's facing something dark it will add exposure to brighten the shot. Ideally you don't want auto exposure as it can mess up your shot. You'll likely want to "lock" your exposure on something nearby to set the exposure based off your lighting conditions. If you have an exposure or EV compensation setting to say in a value of +3 then that means it is adding 3 stops exposure to the sensor. You ISO setting could also be the cause for your blow out highlights. It could be ISO and EV setting causing it too. Ideally you want to keep the IS( as low as possible because the higher the number the more noise (and loss of detail) you'll have. I'm not sure what all settings you can do with DJI but my friend flies a Phantom and another flies a Mavic and they both get great footage and nice neutral exposure. This may help you https://store.dji.com/guides/7-camera-setting-mistakes-most-beginners-make/ as it looks like you may have your settings that need to be adjusted on the DJI app.

[Isaguel]

I pulled the trigger. Couldn't resistthe sale price. BB has the Mavic Air fly more combo right now 450$ off!! That includes extra batteries, case, props and a few other extras. 3 smart batteries! Even if the MAVIC 2 comes out with improved camera, it'll prolly be in the +1K range for the fly more combo, hard to justify.

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/dji-mavic-air-fly-more-combo-quadcopter-with-remote-controller-onyx-black/6194017.p?skuId=6194017

Got the white one. Picking up at store today. It'll be a learning curve for sure. I'll post the first decent images I get. There are some very good tutorials on YouTube on getting cinematic quality footage and editing.
Now all I need is the boat. Should be able to get the Mojo out of storage in 1-2 weeks. Also my dealer called and the SL is delayed but should be available for delivery mid May. Unless Corona decides otherwise.

[Kirby]

Total noob question, but I boat mostly on a lake that I get little to no reception for my phone, middle of eastern Washington. I can't even use the gps app on my phone. Would one of these work with a beacon?

[Isaguel]

You only need internet access when you have to update the software, otherwise it does not use cell data. It uses its own wifi signal to communicate to the remote and send the live video feed. As far as GPS, I does not need cellular data/internet access for GPS. It will not receive GPS signal if it is indoors or in a tunnel. I've seen video of people filming In pretty remote areas where there is no cell reception for miles.
Not sure what you mean by a beacon. The SKydio uses a beacon to track and follow the subject in autonomous flight.

[Kirby]

Not sure what you mean by a beacon. The SKydio uses a beacon to track and follow the subject in autonomous flight.[/QUOTE]

Thanks for the info! And yes, I was referring to the skydio beacon thing since that was the drone I had just looked up.

[DNIXD99]

So what do you think about the new Mavic Air 2? If I didnt own a M2P, Id think its an awesome release, but I kinda want tell DJI FU, considering the money I spent on a M2P 6 months ago lol. Im starting to consider the Skydio, or maybe an Autel, since I use active track 95% of the time. Although, Im sure my M2P took a big hit on resell value. Of course, If you followed my WMs thread, then you know I could easily end up buying a M3P lol.

https://www.dji.com/cz/mavic-air-2?gclid=Cj0KCQjwy6T1BRDXARIsAIqCTXr36CRxgnetUTWtYK fonmwdqfQUznobUj-QKmx0uKUuVjbNldZ0f9AaAqfEEALw_wcB

[DNIXD99]

Found this cheat sheet for anyone looking at DJI drones


28546

[Isaguel]

That thing look awesome. 4K at 60 FPS should render some very nice smooth footage. At <1k for the flymore package, that is a good deal considering this is getting close to pro level footage. I bought the Mavic air and only played with it a few times, still learning some of its tricks and trying to settle on good editing software.
Only concern is flying over water. I looked into the floats you can buy on amazon and they are very unstable. Even small waves can tip it over. Wish I had access to a 3d printer, I would make my own design. It needs to be wider and longer to keep center of gravity from shifting and drone flipping over and ending upside down in the water.

[Isaguel]

https://youtu.be/GfpKipJ5AQs

Hey DNIX, that video you posted is pretty cool. How are you doing with the landing?. Are you able to easily land on boat deck? Did you purchase floats in case of a water landing? Its one of the things I haven't settled on. I am getting practice and some footage with my Mavic on dry land, we don't really have enough warm weather to get on water yet. I wouldn't feel comfortable flying over water right now. What is your take, do u use those floats they sell on AMazon?

[DNIXD99]

https://youtu.be/GfpKipJ5AQs

Hey DNIX, that video you posted is pretty cool. How are you doing with the landing?. Are you able to easily land on boat deck? Did you purchase floats in case of a water landing? Its one of the things I haven't settled on. I am getting practice and some footage with my Mavic on dry land, we don't really have enough warm weather to get on water yet. I wouldn't feel comfortable flying over water right now. What is your take, do u use those floats they sell on AMazon?

I dont have floats or anything like that......I guess Im a risk taker lol

As far as landing, I would learn to catch it by hand, before you use it on a boat. Google some videos on catching it, and learn from everyone elses mistakes. You need to really be confident, before trying to catch it on the boat, but its so much easier.

[rdlangston13]

I got a M2P last september or so and have really enjoyed it. I also downloaded filmora for editing but I have not really had a chance to sit down and play with it. I did on edit of my Wifes cousins farm using the DJI app and then I have used the auto edit for pretty much everything else. Here is some footage from the last couple weeks up at Lake Conroe. I have a hard time getting action shots since its a small crew usually and if I am driving the boat then there is no one to fly to drone and vice versa.

https://youtu.be/91M5H9ZQtso

I have a set of PGY Tech filters that came with it as well but I never take the time to use them haha.

[Isaguel]

Cool. You do need the ND filters. I bought some reasonably priced ND/polarized filters from Amazon. If you're on water you may want to consider polarized/ND filters., On a bright day I would use the ND16 and reduce your shutter speed. Get a much clearer, defined image.
I bought these:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C9RMGRT/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1.
Don't think these fit the M2P but I'm sure they make them for it.

[rdlangston13]

Cool. You do need the ND filters. I bought some reasonably priced ND/polarized filters from Amazon. If you're on water you may want to consider polarized/ND filters., On a bright day I would use the ND16 and reduce your shutter speed. Get a much clearer, defined image.
I bought these:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C9RMGRT/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1.
Don't think these fit the M2P but I'm sure they make them for it.

Yeah I have the polar pro app to help determine what filter is appropriate for the day. Most of the time I’m in a rush and just don’t use it


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