Buying guides 2021: the best photo and video drones

Updated August 3, 2021

In just a few years, drones have become familiar objects in the high-tech landscape. For a long time, good image quality was often synonymous with heavy and bulky devices (and reserved for experts); but in recent years, "general public" drones have seen the quality of their cameras grow steadily... and the most recent models are increasingly close to excellence.

Also, drones represent a paradigm shift: photographing the earth from the air has become both simpler, more accessible... but also much less expensive. However, not all drones are created equal in photography. For each price range, some gear proves to be better than others.

This guide aims to help you determine your needs more precisely and find the ideal drone according to your budget. It will also be an opportunity for us to give you some advice on driving... and on the rules in force. Finally, you will find a (non-exhaustive) list of essential accessories to improve your practice of drone photography.

SUMMARY

DJI's virtual monopoly

A few questions to ask yourself before buying a drone

Entry-level drones

Mid-range drones: image quality at a reduced price

High-end drones: without concessions

Professional drones

Essential accessories

Essential applications for your drone

Conclusion

DJI's virtual monopoly

Unlike the smartphone market, which is characterized by a large number of players and fierce competition, the drone sector is represented by a few brands... and one of them in a quasi-hegemonic position.

Completely unknown only 10 years ago, the Chinese brand DJI has become the world number 1 in drones, and today holds more than half of the market share in the sector. Founded in 2006, it stood out with the Phantom, the first "ready to fly" drone for the general public, and more recently with its Mavic range, whose arms can fold up. Finally, let's mention the Inspire range, more aimed at professionals.

From left to right: Spark, Mavic Pro, Phantom 4 Pro, Inspire 2

However, DJI is not the only player to offer consumer drones of good quality. If GoPro has stopped production of its Karma drone, the French Parrot continues to offer several devices, including the recent Anafi (whose camera can be oriented upwards). We also note the presence of another Chinese brand, Yuneec, which is trying to compete with DJI with more affordable devices.

To make our selection, we looked for the models making the fewest possible concessions, both on the photo/video part and on the quality of the mobile application allowing to control the machine. For each price range, we have therefore selected a flagship model as well as one or two other alternative models, whose characteristics seemed interesting to us.

The Mavic Pro, DJI's first drone with foldable arms

We paid particular attention to

form-factor

different machines: some are particularly compact, while others are less easily transportable... Finally, we paid attention to the features offered by the different models.

A few questions to ask yourself before buying a drone

Where can I fly my drone? What are the main rules in force? How can I train in the practice of the drone? In terms of drones, the legislation is quite strict.

It is based in particular on the law of October 24, 2016 “relating to the reinforcement of the safety of the use of civil drones”, and on the new European regulations, which entered into force on December 31, 2020. To know all the rules governing the practice of the leisure drone, we advise you to refer to our Practical Wednesday "tips and rules to follow to fly your drone safely".

The man and the drone – © Chloé Delestre

What are the different types of drone?

If most drones adopt the same

form-factor

(a central part equipped with sensors and several arms each supporting a motor), there are several large families of drones.

First, let's mention the small inexpensive drones, sold for less than a hundred euros. Most do not have a stabilization mechanism, unlike the models in this buying guide: if you let go of the throttle, the device falls back to the ground. They can be interesting for learning the main commands... However, they can in no way be compared to the more complete and more expensive models.

The Parrot Mambo: sold for €40, it allows you to learn about drones without breaking the bank.

Let's also mention drones

racer

: small, extremely light and equipped with very powerful motors, they are above all intended for practicing drone racing. Their performances are impressive, and they are often piloted in first person view, thanks to a virtual reality helmet. Increasingly known, this very specific practice gives rise to large-scale competitions.

Example of a “racer” type drone

Finally, let's talk about drones for photographers/videographers, the best models of which we will mention in this buying guide. In principle, all carry a nacelle equipped with a photo/video camera with performance at least comparable to that of a recent smartphone. The drones we have mentioned are all quadricopter type: four motors support the device and allow it to be directed. Finally, for some years now, drones for the general public have had automated shooting modes, aimed at making it easier to obtain spectacular aerial images. However, some devices are better than others, as we will see in this comparison.

The Anafi, Parrot's latest photo and video drone

But there are also other types of drones, such as the Parrot Disco: it is a flying wing that pilots can control using a virtual reality headset.

A stabilized drone or not?

All the drones in our selection have a mechanism for stabilizing the device (not to be confused with stabilizing the optical block). This operates on 3 axes: yaw, roll and pitch. Concretely, the stabilization allows you to completely let go of the controls without the device falling like a stone.

You will be able to concentrate on the framing, the composition, as well as the shooting parameters. The drone remains stable at the specified altitude, and is not supposed to drift (even in gusty winds). In practice, some drones are able to withstand gusts of around 50 km/h. However, if the wind is too strong and obstacles are nearby (trees, for example), we advise you to postpone your flight.

A drone with foldable arms or not?

For several years, more and more consumer drones have been equipped with folding arms. The first model with this specificity is the DJI Mavic Pro. Much lighter than the devices in the Phantom range at DJI, this one marked a real turning point, because they can be very easily taken with you, without having to choose between your usual camera equipment and your drone.

Thanks to progress in their on-board electronics, these drones are as stable as their counterparts with non-folding arms, despite their much lighter weight.

Thanks to its folding arms, the Mavic 2 Pro represents the alliance between compactness and performance

Always more pixels?

Yes and no. We have been saying for a long time that the blind race for pixels does not bring anything and the best devices are not necessarily those with the most pixels. Some manufacturers have, however, bet on integrating a sensor with very high definition, but this must necessarily be accompanied by significant work on the software part to bring about a real increase in quality.

Designed in partnership with Hasselblad, the DJI Mavic 2 Pro's sensor (foreground) measures 1 inch and has 20 million pixels

4K drone or not 4K?

The absence of a 4K video mode is not a real obstacle in our eyes, on the other hand it is an evolution which proves to be very practical for obtaining a perfectly stable 1080p film. The extra pixels are used to make the video smoother and to eliminate any movement of the gimbal.

The DJI Mavic Mini does not allow you to record images in 4K, which does not prevent it from offering a very interesting price-quality ratio.

What stabilization of the nacelle?

All the models in this selection (except one) are equipped with an external nacelle supporting the optical unit. This nacelle is therefore independent of the body of the drone and, thanks to its stabilization, remains horizontal even when the drone flies inclined. The motors of this stabilization mechanism also make it possible to orient the camera downwards (and upwards on certain models), which makes it possible to obtain a particularly interesting effect.

The Parrot Anafi's nacelle has an interesting feature: it can be oriented both upwards and downwards.

Which smartphone to fly my drone?

With the exception of one model in this buying guide, all drones are controlled by a remote control to which the pilot connects his smartphone. A recent smartphone model is therefore necessary to smoothly run the application intended for controlling the device. On the iOS side, all models from the iPhone 6S (as well as the iPhone SE from 2016) are able to correctly control your drone.

On the Android side, absolutely avoid entry-level and/or slightly old models, because the drone's video feedback may be quite choppy. For example, using a Nexus 5 (released at the end of 2013) is almost impossible, as the video feedback is jerky. To find out more, we also recommend that you read our smartphone buying guide.

Where to buy your drone?

Before discovering the models presented in our guide, a note also on the gray market. You will surely see very attractive prices on the Internet for certain models, but we have decided to share with you only the shops that do not appeal to the gray market. To learn more about this trade policy, we have published a complete dossier on the gray market.

Among the most recognized and best rated shops to buy a drone, you will often find studioSPORT.com, a drone specialist which has a store in Boulogne-Billancourt as well as a recognized website.

Entry-level drones

DJI Mini 2: aerial photography accessible to all

Buy the DJI Mini 2 at the best price

Launched at the end of 2020, the DJI Mini 2 is the smallest and lightest photo drone on the market but is not the least efficient, far from it. It adopts a particularly compact design and can fit in the palm of the hand.

Weighing only 249 grams (barely more than a smartphone), this mini-drone has foldable arms to be transported even more easily. When the arms are brought back along the body of the device, the drone measures 138 x 81 x 58 mm. Once the arms are unfolded, the Mavic Mini measures 159 x 203 x 56 mm for a diagonal of 213 mm.

The Mini 2 is equipped with a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with 12 million pixels, surmounted by 24mm equivalent optics, offering an 83-degree field of view. The focal aperture is f/2.8. He will be able to capture very beautiful images, which can be shared immediately on social networks. The images are stored on a micro-SD card, and can also be transmitted in real time to your smartphone.

In photo, it generates images in 4/3 format of 4000 x 3000 pixels, and can generate images in JPEG and RAW (DNG). In video, it allows you to capture aerial sequences in 4K.

The most demanding photographers will regret the absence of obstacle detectors on the front, sides or rear of the device. However, the DJI Mini 2 makes up for it with its many automatic flight modes, which will easily highlight the remote pilot and his environment.

The DJI Fly application is also very intuitive and will allow beginners and experienced users to take full advantage of the device. We also appreciate – and above all – its record autonomy of 30 minutes, far superior to most other drones.

But the main asset of this DJI Mini 2 is also its very tight price: it is available with its remote control at the price of 459 € and thus offers unbeatable value for money. A “Fly More” pack is also available at €599, and includes batteries and various accessories, as well as a transport bag.

Note that DJI still offers its predecessor, the Mavic Mini. The latter is (a little) cheaper, being offered from 399 €. However, it only allows you to record videos in 2.7K (and not in 4K) and also ignores the capture of photos in RAW. The latter could, however, come back with a bang with a DJI Mini SE, whose rumor would indicate a selling price of only $299...

DJI Ryse Tello: the cheap and efficient drone... but with some limits

Buy the DJI Ryse Tello at the best price

Resulting from a partnership between the Chinese startup Ryse, Intel and the manufacturer DJI, the little DJI Tello is an excellent way to start practicing drones without breaking the bank. Sold at an unbeatable price (barely €109), the Tello weighs only 89 grams, is equipped with a 5 million pixel sensor and can climb to a maximum altitude of 30 meters. Control is done from a smartphone (iOS or Android), but the device is compatible with certain Bluetooth controllers.

In flight, the images are relatively stable thanks to the digital stabilization... but this tends to show its limits in the event of too fast flight or too strong wind. Noteworthy point: the images generated by the drone are not recorded on a micro-SD card, but are stored directly on the memory of the smartphone. In the event of interference during the retransmission, these will therefore also be included in the video file. The image quality is decent, but will not be able to compete with that of more expensive drones. However, the Tello is primarily aimed at novice users, wanting to have a small drone that is easy to fly. And remember its price of 99 € which makes it almost irresistible to start.

Mid-range drones: image quality at a reduced price

DJI Mavic Air 2

Buy the DJI Mavic Air 2 at the best price

The DJI Mavic Air 2 embodies the Chinese manufacturer's mid-range drone. Located between the Mavic 2 Pro and the Mavic Mini, it aims to offer the same qualities as its big brother (including folding arms and a very ergonomic remote control)... while displaying a lower price. In practice, the DJI Mavic Air 2 is an excellent drone. It weighs only 570 grams, which will allow you to take it with you on all your photo outings. Also note its record autonomy of 35 minutes of flight with a single battery.

It has a 48 Mpx “quad bayer” sensor, capable of capturing more light than a “standard” sensor. It is surmounted by a 24 mm equivalent lens.

In photography, it is able to capture images in JPEG and RAW (DNG format). It has a large number of shooting modes: HDR, panoramas, exposure bracketing... and a new "hyperlight" mode, which is very reminiscent of the "night shot" mode of many high-end smartphones.

In video, the Mavic Air 2 allows you to capture very beautiful sequences in 4K at 60 fps. It also has a “cinematic” mode at 24 fps. Not to mention 2 slow motion modes at 120 and 240 fps. The device also allows HDR videos – but only in 2.7 K or Full HD (30 fps).

Of course, the device gives pride of place to automated flight modes, which make it possible to obtain superb sequences easily. We thus find the Rocket, Circle, Dronie, Spiral, Boomerang and Asteroid modes – which make it easy to enhance the subject of the video by turning around it and/or gaining altitude. But also a new Hyperlapse mode, which allows you to achieve impressive aerial time-lapses thanks to the memorization of the GPS coordinates of the device. Finally, it offers several intelligent subject tracking modes, even when it is hidden by an obstacle.

We should also mention the obstacle detectors located at the front, at the back and below the device. The DJI Fly app automatically warns the user when the drone is too close to an obstacle and prevents the drone from crashing into the scenery. On the other hand, be careful in the event of lateral flights, since the Mavic Air 2 ignores the obstacle detectors on the sides.

Lightweight, compact, packed with camera functionality and smart flight modes, the Mavic Air 2 is arguably one of the best value for money around.

As usual, DJI offers two packs of this small drone: a "standard" version, sold for €849, and a "Fly More" pack, which includes a total of 3 batteries, a carrying bag, spare propellers and additional accessories.

Parrot Anafi, the challenger

Buy the Parrot Anafi at the best price

If DJI drones are remarkable, the latest addition to the French manufacturer offers serious arguments in its favor. Also equipped with folding arms, the Parrot Anafi is very easy to transport: barely 320 grams on the scale. Capable of flying within a range of 4 km, it can remain operational for up to 25 minutes.

Its 1/2.4-inch CMOS sensor has 21 million pixels, and is capable of filming in 4K Cinema (4096×2160) at 24 frames per second, in 4K UHD up to 30 fps and can go up to 60 fps in Full HD (1920×1080). It is also distinguished by its ability to film in HDR (High Dynamic Range). In addition, the machine offers the capture of images in JPEG or DNG RAW in “Wide” 4:3 format in 21 Mpx (5344×4016), as well as in a tighter format in 12 Mpx (4000×3000).

Finally, the Anafi stands out from the competition thanks to its multi-directional nacelle. Where most other drones are only able to tilt their camera downward, Parrot's model is able to angle its gimbal 90 degrees upward. Ideal for filming low angle shots.

The Parrot Anafi is also distinguished by its very competitive price: count €699 for the "standard" version, and €899 for the "extended" version, which includes 3 batteries, a travel bag and 2 months of subscription to Creative Cloud for the photo or to Premiere Pro CC.

High-end drones: drones without concessions

With folding arms: Mavic 2 Zoom and Mavic 2 Pro

Buy the DJI Mavic 2 Pro at the best price

Buy the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom at the best price

Unveiled last fall, the Mavic 2 Zoom and Mavic 2 Pro embody DJI's high-end consumer drones with folding arms. They succeed the excellent Mavic Pro.

However, the Mavic 2 Pro differs from its elder by its optical module designed in partnership with Hasselblad (which DJI has also bought). It thus has a large 1-inch CMOS sensor displaying 20 million pixels. Its lens has a variable aperture, between f/2.8 and f/11. The machine is capable of filming in 4K (in 24, 25 or 30 fps), and can also capture footage in 60 or 120 fps in 2.7K and 1080p. DJI also highlights compatibility with the HDR 10 standard. Its battery allows it to stay in flight for 31 minutes (in perfectly ideal conditions), and the machine is capable of reaching 72 km / h in Sport mode.

The DJI Mavic 2 Pro, equipped with its Hasselblad sensor

For its part, the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom differs from its twin brother by the integration of a 24-48 mm (x2) optical zoom, a first in the drone industry. Equipped with a more classic 1/2.3-inch sensor, this optical zoom is complemented by a 2x digital zoom, allowing remote pilots to obtain a large zoom range. The DJI Mavic 2 Zoom also features Super Resolution, which is based on capturing 9 shots with the 48mm telephoto lens. The goal: to generate an image of 48 million pixels, while maintaining an amplitude of view similar to that produced by the 24 mm lens.

The DJI Mavic 2 Zoom and its 24-48 mm lens

Notable point: unlike their elder, the Mavic Pro, the new Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom exceed the 800 gram mark (displaying 907 and 905 grams respectively on the scale). To be in compliance with French legislation, you will therefore need to register your machine and follow the online training attesting to your mastery of the regulations in force.

The Mavic 2 Pro is available from €1499, while its twin brother the Mavic 2 Zoom can be acquired for the sum of €1249. A Fly More pack is also sold 300 to 400 € more expensive, including among other things two batteries, a charging station, two pairs of additional propellers, as well as a carrying case.

The Rolls-Royce of consumer drones: DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0

Buy the DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 at the best price

Released on the sly in May 2018, the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 is the most advanced version of DJI's consumer quadcopter family. Compared to the first iteration of the machine, this V2.0 is above all more silent, with new motors and redesigned propellers. In terms of autonomy, the machine boasts of being able to fly for 30 minutes. Equipped with multiple sensors, the device is able to avoid obstacles in (almost) all circumstances.

In terms of image quality, the Phantom 4 Pro (V1 or 2.0) is the drone offering the best image quality on a consumer drone (with the exception of the DJI Mavic 2 Pro). To do this, it is based on a large 1-inch sensor with 20 million pixels, surmounted by an optical equivalent to 24 mm with aperture at f / 2.8. The set is capable of filming at 4K in 60 fps, and displays recording rates of 100 Mb / s for greater fluidity of images. On the photo side, it is obviously capable of capturing images in RAW. In burst mode, its manufacturer advances a burst mode at 14 frames per second.

Naturally, the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 is much less transportable than its counterparts with folding arms. Measuring no less than 35 centimeters diagonally, the machine weighs a mere 1375 grams, requiring you to register online and follow the appropriate training.

However, its price may be somewhat dissuasive. The "standard" version (whose remote control has no screen) is displayed at €1699 on the DJI website, while the "Plus" version (whose remote control has an integrated screen) is offered at... €1999. But at this price level, you have an extremely versatile solution that delivers shots of exceptional quality.

Professional drones

Finally, let's mention a “separate” category: that of drones intended for image professionals. Mainly used when shooting video clips, commercials or even films, they rely above all on exceptional image quality. With a very large carrying capacity (several kilos), they can be equipped with a small camera or a reflex. On the other hand, their dimensions are much more imposing than the consumer models.

The DJI Inspire 2

As such, let's mention the DJI Inspire 2, one of the most powerful devices currently in the catalog of the Chinese manufacturer. Capable of filming in 5.2K in CinemaDNG RAW, it has a battery life of 27 minutes and can fly at a maximum speed of 94 km/h. This professional drone is available with the DJI Zenmuse X7, X4S, X5S cameras, the latter equipped with a 20.8MP Micro-4/3 sensor, and can be used with one of 10 compatible lenses.

This performance is nevertheless particularly expensive: count 5499 € for the “standard” version, equipped with the Zenmuse X5S camera. For the "pro" version, equipped with a Zenmuse X7 camera, the bill reaches peaks, and can climb to more than €10,000 for the most complete pack.

Essential “drone” accessories

If the machines are becoming more and more powerful and always integrate more shooting modes, certain accessories are real musts.

A base to take off / land the drone on "complicated" terrain (grass, pebbles, etc.)

Before you even take off your drone, you need to have a sufficiently flat and stable surface so as not to risk damaging your machine or its propellers. Also, it is possible to acquire a take-off/landing base (generally circular in shape) in polyester. Once placed on the ground, it allows you to "erase" any roughness in the terrain to allow a maneuver in complete safety for you and your drone. In addition, it allows you to locate your point of departure / arrival more easily from the screen of your smartphone.

One or more additional batteries

Although the autonomy of drones is increasing, one or more additional batteries will be essential to extend the duration of your flight sessions... particularly if you wish to fly your machine at low temperatures (in the mountains in particular, the cold reducing battery life by approximately 15 to 20%).

To

As such, the packs of certain manufacturers are appreciable, because they immediately integrate one or two additional batteries. Finally, note a small particularity of certain drone batteries (those of the Mavic Pro in particular): thanks to a small adapter, you can use it as an external battery and connect your smartphone to it to recharge it.

Model

Link

DJI Spark

To buy

DJI Ryse Tello

To buy

Yuneec Mantis Q

To buy

DJI Mavic Air

To buy

Parrot Anafi

To buy

DJI Mavic 2 Pro

To buy

DJI Mavic 2 Zoom

To buy

DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0

To buy

A support to fly your drone using a tablet

Recent smartphones incorporate increasingly large screens. However, it is sometimes more comfortable to use a small tablet (like the iPad Mini) to benefit from an even larger video feedback display surface. Available from €27, this small accessory allows you to hold your slate on your drone's DJI remote control, allowing you to use it with the application provided by the manufacturer.

A carrying case

Knowing how to fly your drone is good; protecting it is even better! To this end, a carrying case will quickly prove indispensable. Again, this is often provided in certain packs that also include one or more additional batteries.

Two types of protection are generally offered for the most common models. For example, for the DJI Mavic 2, there are soft covers, allowing you to store the drone, its remote control and an additional battery, as well as rigid cases, which allow you to transport more equipment and offer increased protection in the event of an impact. .

Landing gear for your drone

If the ground on which you want to land your drone is particularly uneven, you can mount a device to accentuate the height of the feet of the machine. Offered at around thirty euros, they make it possible to increase the relative distance between the ground and the camera of the drone, and thus limit any risk of shock between the nacelle and the ground on which you place your flying camera.

Model

Link

DJI Spark

To buy

DJI Mavic Air

To buy

Parrot Anafi

To buy

DJI Mavic 2 Pro

To buy

DJI Mavic 2 Zoom

To buy

Protection for the propellers of your device

Also in the range of devices intended to protect your drone, propeller protections limit the damage caused by a collision with an obstacle (a wall, for example). Available around 15 €, they will prove to be particularly useful for beginner telepilots.

Model

Link

DJI Spark

To buy

DJI Ryse Tello

To buy

Yuneec Mantis Q

To buy

DJI Mavic Air

To buy

Parrot Anafi

To buy

DJI Mavic 2 Pro

To buy

DJI Mavic 2 Zoom

To buy

DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0

To buy

UV/ND/polarizing filters to be installed in front of the camera lens

Like those that can be added in front of your photo lenses, these filters aim to increase the image quality of your drone and/or to allow a lower shutter speed in video (1/50 or 1/60s ), so you get a cinematic look – even when capturing at 24 or 30 fps. Likewise, they will allow you to avoid overexposing your images in very bright light, and to accentuate contrasts and saturation.

Very easy to insert and remove, they are very interesting to increase the photo and video possibilities offered by your drone. Also, let's mention the filters designed by the Polar Pro brand: you can buy them individually or in the form of packs grouping together several different filters.

Model

Link

DJI Spark

To buy

DJI Mavic Air

To buy

DJI Mavic 2 Pro

To buy

DJI Mavic 2 Zoom

To buy

DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0

To buy

Quality USB cables (to avoid any connection problems)

This may seem obvious to you, but having quality USB cables will be essential for good communication between your smartphone and the drone remote control. Also, be sure to favor those provided by the manufacturer of your phone. Otherwise, you can invest in more durable braided cables, such as those offered by the Anker brand (available for iPhones and Android smartphones with a USB-C port).

DJI Goggles (to pilot the device in first person view)

Les DJI Goggles, qui ressemblent à s'y méprendre à un casque de réalité virtuelle « classique », sont destinées aux télépilotes voulant piloter leur engin à la première personne, en voyant directement ce que voit le drone à travers sa caméra embarquée. Le casque repose sur la technologie Ocusync, développée par DJI pour connecter un drone (Mavic Pro et ses successeurs, Phantom 4) à plusieurs télécommandes ou plusieurs paires de lunettes immersives. L'une des fonctionnalités les plus impressionnantes est sans doute celle permettant de contrôler la nacelle et l'orientation du drone en déplaçant sa tête.

Un mot toutefois au sujet de la législation française : celle-ci impose aux télépilotes de garder leur drone à portée de vue. Concrètement, il n'est donc pas autorisé de voler en immersion avec les DJI Googles. Pour rester en conformité avec les textes de loi, vous devrez donc confier le casque de réalité virtuelle à une tierce personne, ou lui demander de jouer le rôle d'observateur (pour surveiller les évolutions du drone).

Les DJI Googles sont disponibles à partir de 399 €.

Télécommande DJI Smart Controller avec écran intégré

Dévoilée en janvier 2019, la DJI Smart Controller est une télécommande destinée à accompagner les Mavic 2 Pro et Mavic 2 Zoom. Elle comporte un grand écran Full HD de 5,5 pouces, permettant de contrôler le drone sans devoir utiliser son smartphone. Concrètement, l'écran de cette télécommande se démarque par sa luminosité incomparable, même face aux meilleurs smartphones du marché.

En effet, l'écran de la Smart Controller offre un niveau de luminosité de 1 000 cd/m2, tandis que, par exemple, celui du Huawei Mate 20 Pro plafonne à « seulement » 629 cd/m2 et l'iPhone Xs Max à 655 cd/m2. (Pour rappel, l'intensité lumineuse perçue par l'œil humain d'un objet est exprimée en candela par mètre carré, notée cd/m2).

Cette télécommande vise également à proposer un plus grand confort d'utilisation. Côté technique, elle repose sur une version modifiée d'Android, et permet d'installer les applications DJI GO 4 et DJI Pilot. Son constructeur met également en avant la possibilité de diffuser en live les images enregistrées par le drone sur les réseaux sociaux. À noter que la télécommande dispose d'un micro et d'un haut-parleur intégré, permettant ainsi aux vidéastes de commenter leurs vidéos lors d'un live sur Facebook ou Instagram.

Enfin, la Smart Controller emploie la technologie OcuSync en version 2.0, ce qui lui permet (en théorie) de piloter un drone jusqu'à 8 km de distance. Reste que son prix demeure particulièrement élevé : elle est proposée pour la modique somme de 699 € auprès des principaux revendeurs.

Kits d'éclairage

Pour enrichir et diversifier votre pratique du drone, nous vous conseillons également les kits d'éclairage pour drones développés par Lume Cube. Faciles à fixer sous l'engin, ils permettent d'éclairer le sujet photographié par le dessus, donnant ainsi un aspect totalement inédit.

© Lume Cube

Couplé à un appareil photo réglé en pose longue, vous pourrez même utiliser votre drone pour produire un effet de

light painting

impressive. Enfin, ces kits lumineux permettront à votre drone de rester parfaitement visible, même lorsque la lumière vient à manquer considérablement.

Les applications iOS et Android indispensables

Pour piloter son drone et en exploiter les images

Pour contrôler votre engin, procéder à ses mises à jour, au calibrage du compas... et accéder aux images que vous aurez capturées, l'application du constructeur de votre drone est indispensable.

DJI propose 2 applications. La première, DJI Go 4, est réservée aux drones haut de gamme. Les modèles les plus récents (Mavic Mini, Mavic Air 2) se contrôlent grâce à l'application DJI Fly. Compatible iOS et Android (en anglais uniquement), elle se montre très intuitive et favorise une prise en main rapide du drone, même pour les utilisateurs débutants.

L'interface de DJI Go 4 s'avère simple à utiliser, même pour les télépilotes débutants.

Chez son concurrent français Parrot, c'est l'application FreeFlight 6 qui permet de piloter le dernier modèle de la marque, le Parrot Anafi. Son ergonomie est relativement similaire à celle de DJI Go 4, et s'avère pratique et intuitive. Elle est disponible sur l'App Store et le Google Play.

Enfin, le constructeur Yuneec propose une application spécifique pour chaque modèle. Ainsi, l'appli Yuneec Pilot permettra de contrôler le Mantis Q. Elle aussi disponible pour iOS et Android, son interface est très proche de celle des applications proposées par DJI.

Pix4Dcapture transforme vos images de drone en rendus 3D

Mentionnons aussi Pix4Dcapture, une application de modélisation en 3D. Compatible avec de nombreux modèles de drones, elle permet de créer des modèles 3D de bâtiments, de chantiers... et sera particulièrement utile dans des cas très spécifiques. Elle aussi est téléchargable sur l'App Store et sur le Google Play.

Pour préparer votre vol

Comme nous le disions en introduction, bien préparer votre vol est indispensable. Pour ce faire, vous référer aux cartes spécifiques fournies par Geoportail est le point de départ de tout vol de drone. En voyage, assurez-vous de bien connaître la législation en vigueur.

Pour localiser les meilleurs endroits où capturer des images aériennes (dans le respect des règles en vigueur, bien sûr), nous vous conseillons également les sites DroneSpot et Drone-Spot et leurs applications mobiles respectives (voir captures ci-dessous).

Tous deux basés sur une carte interactives, ils indiquent sous forme d'épingle la localisation des lieux où vous pourrez faire voler votre drone. En cliquant dessus, vous pourrez ainsi accéder à différentes informations (facilité d'accès, intérêt, éventuelles difficultés lors du vol) et à des exemples d'images réalisées à cet endroit. L'aspect collaboratif est également de mise : vous pouvez suggérer l'ajout de nouveaux spots sur la carte, qui seront ensuite revus par les administrateurs des plateformes.

Une fois le lieu de votre vol repéré, vous pouvez utiliser une application comme Sun Surveyor, que nous citions déjà dans notre guide d'achat des smartphones. Disponible pour iOS et Android, elle-ci permet de déterminer la course du soleil en fonction de votre position géographique. Elle se montrera aussi très utile pour connaître les heures de lever et de coucher du soleil. Une version gratuite est disponible, mais nous vous conseillons d'opter pour la version payante. En effet, elle vous permet notamment de déterminer la position du soleil par rapport à votre environnement (en réalité augmentée). Idéal pour choisir le meilleur moment et le meilleur angle pour immortaliser un paysage, par exemple.

Pour exploiter les images capturées par votre drone

Pour retoucher les photographies prises avec votre drone, nul besoin de recourir impérativement à un ordinateur. Les images étant directement transmises à votre smartphone, vous pouvez l'utiliser pour retoucher directement vos photos et les partager sur les réseaux sociaux.

Pour ce faire, nous vous conseillons particulièrement des applications telles Snapseed ou Lightroom CC. Pour retrouver leur descriptif complet, n'hésitez pas à vous référer au chapitre dédié aux applications de retouche photo sur mobile de notre guide d'achat relatif aux smartphones.

Si ces deux applications sont toutes deux disponibles sur iOS et Android, leur approche est toutefois assez différente. Snapseed mise avant tout sur la simplicité, et permet l'applications des préréglages pour améliorer rapidement vos photos. Des outils de retouche plus pointus sont toutefois disponibles, permettant de corriger en profondeur vos images. Mentionnons ainsi un outil pinceau, dont le fonctionnement est semblable à celui de Photoshop. L'application est capable de traiter les fichiers RAW, ce qui est fort appréciable.

Lightroom CC, de son côté, est profondément intégrée à l'écosystème Adobe, et permet notamment de bénéficier des fonctionnalités de synchronisation liées au Creative Cloud (pour en bénéficier, un abonnement disponible à partir de 143,14 € par an est nécessaire). Il est ainsi possible de commencer à retoucher ses photos sur ordinateur, puis de continuer sur son smartphone. À l'inverse, vous pouvez prendre une photo avec votre drone, la retoucher rapidement sur smartphone et continuer si besoin sur votre ordinateur.

Luma Fusion

Du côté de la vidéo, faisons également mention d'une application extrêmement complète, nommée Luma Fusion, une des applications de montage vidéo multi-pistes les plus complètes disponibles sur l'App Store. Elle permet en effet de disposer d'une table de montage et d'outils vidéo extrêmement puissants (ajout de transitions entre les plans, gestion des pistes sonores, des sous-titres...). On notera toutefois que son interface s'avère beaucoup plus confortable à utiliser sur iPad que sur iPhone et qu'aucune version Android n'existe pour le moment.

Et sur PC et Mac ?

Une fois rentré à votre domicile, vous pourrez copier les fichiers produits par votre drone depuis sa carte SD, et profiter de vos photos et vidéo dans leur résolution d'origine. Aussi, vous pourrez les retoucher et créer des montages vidéo grâce à vos logiciels habituels de post-traitement photo et vidéo.

Grâce aux avancées de l'intelligence artificielle, retoucher les photos prises avec votre drone devient encore plus simple. A ce titre, mentionnons un petit logiciel, nommé AirMagic, développé par Skylum pour Mac et PC. Il permet d'améliorer automatiquement vos photos prises avec un drone et s'avère particulièrement facile à prendre en main. Disponible pour 39 € par licence, le logiciel peut également être utilisé en tant que plugin pour Lightroom et Photoshop, permettant ainsi d'accélérer votre flux de travail.

Conclusion

De par les possibilités créatives qu'ils rendent disponibles au plus grand nombre, les drones ont véritablement bouleversé le paysage photographique contemporain. Faciles à prendre en main, de plus en plus légers et particulièrement polyvalents, les drones s'imposent de plus en plus comme un compagnon fort utile du matériel de nombreux photographes.

Un certain nombre de drones sont aujourd'hui capables de prendre des photos et des vidéos de qualité. Toutefois, la qualité de leur design, la fidélité de la restitution des couleurs et des contrastes, de même que la conception de l'application permettant de les contrôler tendent toujours à marquer la différence entre les meilleurs drones... et les autres.

Depuis quelques années, on constate également la multiplication des modes de prise de vue automatisée, qui facilitent la capture de séquences valorisant au mieux le sujet photographié. De même, certains constructeurs tentent de transformer la manière dont nous contrôlons nos drones, en implantant des systèmes de commande à la voix ou aux gestes de la main. Le but : rendre la photo aérienne encore plus facile et accessible.

Les falaises de la côté d'Albâtre – DJI Mavic Pro – © Jean-Nicolas Lehec

Toutefois, nous ne saurions trop insister sur la nécessité de respecter les consignes et la réglementation en vigueur. Régulièrement, des incidents font la une de la presse et viennent ternir l'image des drones auprès du grand public. Le survol de l'aéroport de Gatwick, en Angleterre, en est le dernier exemple en date.

Cela étant, les drones sont un fantastique outil de création, qui permettent d'obtenir des photographies totalement inédites : il y a encore quelques années, un tournage aérien nécessitait la location d'un avion ou d'un hélicoptère et de son pilote, ainsi que d'un photographe/ vidéaste spécialisé. Les drones nous offrent ainsi la possibilité d'aborder différemment le monde qui nous entoure, et de prendre conscience de sa beauté... et de sa fragilité.

Les autres guides d'achat photo

Introduction

Rappel : comment bien choisir son matériel photo ?

Guides d'achat photo : les meilleurs reflex APS-C amateurs, passionnés et experts

Guides d'achat photo : les meilleurs reflex full frame (ou plein format)

Guides d'achat photo : les objectifs conseillés par la rédaction de Phototrend

Guides d'achat photo : les meilleurs appareils hybrides et leurs objectifs

Guides d'achat photo : les meilleurs compacts, experts comme grand public

Guides d'achat photo : les meilleurs smartphones, applications et accessoires mobiles

Guide d'achat photo : les meilleurs drones photo et vidéo

Guides d'achat photo : les meilleurs appareils et films instantanés

Guides d'achat photo : 10 idées cadeaux photo à moins de 50 euros

Guides d'achat photo : le meilleur matériel de sauvegarde