The Real Estate Photography Hub Blog

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Drone for Real Estate Photography

Written by Jordan Nielsen | Dec 13, 2023 4:20:00 AM

Are you ready to take your real estate photography to new heights? Well, that's exactly what we'll be discussing in this article – the equipment you need to provide aerial services. From the early days of custom-built gimbals and GoPro cameras, to the high-tech drones available today, the technology has come a long way. So let's dive in and explore the different options for drones and equipment that will help you capture stunning aerial footage.

Starting with the basics, we recommend the DJI Mavic Air 2 as a great all-around drone that won't break the bank. At less than $1000 for a fly-more combo, this drone delivers excellent value with its long battery life, great range, and high-quality imaging. It's a versatile drone that can handle both photography and video, making it a popular choice among real estate photographers.

But if you're looking for something more advanced and have a larger budget, then the DJI Mavic 2 Pro may be the drone for you. With its adjustable aperture and superior low-light performance, it's perfect for capturing stunning aerial photos and videos. At around $2000 for a fly-more combo, this drone is a bit pricier, but it's worth the investment if you're serious about aerial photography.

If you're on a tight budget, you may want to consider the DJI Mini 2. This drone delivers great image quality and has excellent battery life, making it a popular choice among beginners. Just keep in mind that it doesn't have obstacle avoidance sensors, so you'll need to be careful when flying it.

No matter which drone you choose, you'll also need a smartphone to use as a display for your drone controller. And don't forget to invest in high-speed microSD cards and extra batteries, so you're always ready to capture that perfect shot.

When it comes to apps, the DJI Fly app is used for the Mavic Air 2 and Mini 2, while the DJI GO 4 app is used for the Mavic 2 Pro. We personally prefer the DJI Fly app for its modern interface, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

While we recommend DJI drones, it's worth noting that there are other great drone manufacturers out there, such as Yuneec and Autel. So do your research and choose the drone that's right for you and your business.

In conclusion, aerial photography can take your real estate photography to the next level, but it requires the right equipment to do it successfully. Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your gear, there's a drone out there that's perfect for your needs and budget. Just remember to always fly safely and follow all FAA regulations. If you have any additional questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Happy flying!