Just bought my first drone… any advice?

This is my very first drone, and I’m looking for some tips on camera settings to get better quality photos. I’m totally new to photography and just trying to explore something different. Any help would be awesome!

Honestly, since you’re just getting started, the main thing is learning to control the drone itself. I’d say use auto settings for now so you can focus on flying. Drones are different; lights, shadows, and reflections change fast, so auto works well. Also, if you ever get into ND filters, there’s a good discussion on them here: ND filters,waste of time and money | DJI FORUM.

If you had asked before buying, I’d have recommended getting the RC2 remote. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth it. Enjoy the new drone, and stay safe out there!

@Haven
Completely agree! I’ve been into photography for over 20 years and still use auto on my drone (sometimes I lock exposure for videos). Auto lets you focus more on the shot composition. In regular photography, I usually shoot with aperture priority and auto ISO. Mastering basic rules first will really help. Just my way of doing things!

@Haven
Can you tell me more about the RC2 remote? I thought it was just an added screen, but is there something else to it? Always looking to improve my shots!

River said:
@Haven
Can you tell me more about the RC2 remote? I thought it was just an added screen, but is there something else to it? Always looking to improve my shots!

It’s actually an Android device with a long-lasting battery. Main perks for me were:

  • Larger screen
  • Battery lasts ages
  • Doesn’t overheat in hot weather

I got it because I took my drone on a trip to a hot place with limited charging options. A big power bank won’t always help either since airlines limit battery watt-hours.

@Haven
I see, I use my basic remote with an iPad so others around me can watch too. The RC2’s brightness sounds like it’s great for sunny days though. Pros and cons for both setups, I guess!

@Haven
What?! My battery dies super quickly!

Skyler said:
@Haven
What?! My battery dies super quickly!

How fast are we talking? Mine lasts around 4-5 hours.

@Haven
Yep, I’d say leave camera settings alone until you’re totally confident with your flying.

There are tons of tutorials on YouTube! Definitely read the manual first, though. You’ll thank yourself later.

Wow, $2.95 for gas? It’s $4.18 here. Anyway, have fun with the drone! Spend the first month just flying, then try out manual settings.

Oswin said:
Wow, $2.95 for gas? It’s $4.18 here. Anyway, have fun with the drone! Spend the first month just flying, then try out manual settings.

Came for the drone tips, staying for the under $3 gas discussion!

Oswin said:
Wow, $2.95 for gas? It’s $4.18 here. Anyway, have fun with the drone! Spend the first month just flying, then try out manual settings.

Right? The gas price is the real highlight!

Oswin said:
Wow, $2.95 for gas? It’s $4.18 here. Anyway, have fun with the drone! Spend the first month just flying, then try out manual settings.

I’m guessing that’s per gallon? Over here in the UK, it’s about $7.65 a gallon!

@Wylie
Holy smokes, that’s crazy! I’d be on a 125cc scooter if it were that high.

Edit: Actually, I’m already on a 125cc at $4.19 a gallon. Ha!

Oswin said:
Wow, $2.95 for gas? It’s $4.18 here. Anyway, have fun with the drone! Spend the first month just flying, then try out manual settings.

Just paid $2.89 here in New Mexico, and it’s even cheaper on the reservations!

@EthanSkyWhisper
Wow! Still $4.19 here. Just took a ride on my bike, and that was the price.

Oswin said:
Wow, $2.95 for gas? It’s $4.18 here. Anyway, have fun with the drone! Spend the first month just flying, then try out manual settings.

Yeah, the high prices are usually in the downtown areas here.

Start with the manual, then go to YouTube for some tutorials. For photography, I recommend shooting in RAW so you can edit better in software like Lightroom.

Kaius said:
Start with the manual, then go to YouTube for some tutorials. For photography, I recommend shooting in RAW so you can edit better in software like Lightroom.

Hey, I’m also new to drones. What do you mean by shooting RAW?