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Editing your RAW Drone Photos in Apple Photos

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Note- A Mavic Pro was used for these photos – but the advice given will apply to most all DJI drones and to some other brands.
This article is for Beginners and Advanced Beginners – those who know their imaging will likely already have other programs (Lightroom, etc.) that process their RAW and other photos. This article involves editing with the free (included) MacOS program “Apple Photos”, formerly called iPhoto.

What is RAW?

RAW is a photographic file type – one that takes as much as possible of the information from the camera sensor and stores it in a larger (usually 5X the size in bytes) format than the JPEG (.jpg or .jpeg) that most are familiar with. Most DJI Equipment now allows you to set the Photo type as RAW…or, as both RAW and JPEG at the same time. In the later case, the Drone will take and store two photos – one processed with your JPEG settings and one RAW.

Should you use RAW as your Photo file type?

This is an open question. If you do a lot of work on your photos after you download them (this is called post-processing), then RAW is the preferred format due to it containing more actual light and color information…which then gives you more to work with. However, if the majority of your work is “as-is” or only slightly adjusted afterwards (crop, light, etc.), then the JPEG format should work fine. However, it will benefit you to check and test the JPEG photo settings on your machine before you take it into the field. DJI provides various options – I currently use “Landscape” on my Mavic Pro and the result are quite good. Reports from the field indicate that DJI has occasionally changed these settings with firmware updates, so it’s important that you check to make sure the photos are satisfactory before doing any important flights. This can be done by checking the settings in the DJI Go (4) app while connected to the Drone – and also taking a couple photos outdoors. I just hover a few feet above my house and do so, but you could also do it hand held. Make certain to touch the screen to focus and try to take a sample photo of something at a distance – then inspect it closely on your computer or any larger screen.

RAW Photos will often look “washed out” compared to JPEGS – this is because JPEGS are automatically improved inside the camera. In other words, the basic work (sharpening, brightening, colors popping) is done for you – whereas with RAW you have to do the post-processing.

Up until recently, working with RAW files often meant you needed expensive programs like Lightroom – and also the education on using them. However, the free (included) Apple Photos App on Macs now has the ability to process these files. Following is a short tutorial on editing RAW (and other) photos in Apple Photos.

Selecting a Photo in Apple Photos

The screenshot below shows part of a typical Apple Photos “Photos” screen. These Photos have been imported from the Micro-SD card plugged into an adapter on my Mac. The thumbnails which have a “J” at the upper left also show a second shadow behind that “J” – this indicates that both a JPEG and a RAW copy of the photo are in the program. If nothing is shown, that means only a JPEG exists – if the upper left only contains an “R”, that means only a RAW photo was taken. Note that RAW photos will have a .DNG (or .dng) extension.  [Read more…]

DJI Introduces new Drones and More in NYC on Jan 23, 2017

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Want to be the first to order a Mavic Air – try this link – UNITS ARE NOW SHIPPING DIRECT FROM DJI.

As per the rumors, the release is called the Mavic Air and is very similar to the description below. It is smaller than any other system of it’s type – 1/2 the size of the Mavic Pro and weighs 41% less – yet it has the same (and many better) features.

21 Minutes of flight time – and a range of over 2 miles. Wind resistance has been improved – to 22 MPH. As first mentioned, this could be called a vastly improved Spark or a downsized Mavic Pro – with, of course, the extra features.
Price? Only $799 for the basic package including the R/C Controller, prop guards, single battery, etc.
For $999 you get 3 total batteries, a multi-charger, a case and some other accessories.
DJI claims that a number of accessories and add-ons will be available in the coming weeks.

100 mpbs 4K Video is included – this is a much higher rate (quality for video) than most other consumer drones. Panoramas are automatic – just the tap of a button to shoot a 32 MP Pano. An HDR setting is included.

The Camera and Gimbal are quite advanced – 8Gig of memory is built in, so if you forget your MicroSD card you can still take stills and video. The Camera has been improved and recessed back into the drone for extra protection.

Want to be the first to order a Mavic Air – try this link – delivery is in just a few short weeks.

Palm and Gesture control have been updated and are much more responsive.

The Mavic Air is shown below:

The New DJI Mavic Air

DJI sent us an invitation to a “launch” event which will feature the unveiling of some new products. Unfortunately, I will be at 39,000 feet in a real flying machine on that day – but DJI has promised to send along ALL the Press Material. In addition, we have many contacts within the industry who will be attending and sharing their opinions with us.

The rumored new machine is a cross between the Spark and the Mavic Pro. Specifically, it addresses the shortcomings of the Spark (Camera, short flight times) and improves on some aspects by being able to fold like the Mavic Pro. A more compact headset may be available which will not scare the neighbors as much as the older model.

So – if the rumors are true, what is being introduced is a Mavic Pro which is smaller, less expensive and perhaps has some additional features. Since the Mavic Pro is the best selling drone in history, this makes perfect sense..

See and/or order what has been introduced: Want to be the first to order a Mavic Air – try this link – The Mavic Air is shipping immediately from DJI direct.

Price: $799 with the R/C Controller and a single battery – $999 for a more complete package with extra batteries, a case, a multi-battery charger and more. This means you can now have a better, smaller and more capable Mavic Pro….for less than the cost of a Mavic Pro.

Range is given as 2.5 Miles – less than the original Mavic Pro. However, very few pilots use their craft out to this distance.

Note: For the initial shipments, the Mavic Air is available only through DJI Direct. By the end of February it should be at most outlets such as Best Buy, the Apple Store, Amazon, Etc.

Buyers should compare this with other models – it definitely is the most compact in terms of size and weight given the 4K high-res capabilities. However, the Mavic Pro has longer range and very similar image quality for most uses. Those needed better imaging should look at the Phantom Pro line with the 1″ Sony Sensor.

NEW – DJI Phantom 3 SE – The Best Budget 4K Drone?

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The DJI Phantom 3 series, first released in April of 2015, set a new standard for what was expected of a consumer-level Camera drone. Even at the original price of $1259, the Phantom 3 Pro was head and shoulders above anything in its class. The P3 series is still widely used today – although officially all models other than the $499 “Standard” (lowest end) model have been discontinued.

However, DJI has decided to introduce a new (updated) model of the Phantom 3 to the US Market.
The new model is called the Phantom 3 SE , sells for $599 and is at this link:
https://goo.gl/CjsT2c

DJI has been very quiet about the launch of this new model – in fact, I had to email the company to find out if it truly was a new model or just a renaming of an older model which was called the “Phantom 3 4K”. They assured me that this is a model which is updated and upgraded and hasn’t been sold in the US until now.

For that price you get a top notch 4K capable camera, the VPS (ground sensing) system and a new upgraded wireless connection which increases the range to as much as 4KM. Note – we suggest cutting these maximums by 50% for your use in most normal situations….but, realistically, even 1 KM is fine for most of what consumer camera drones are used for.
Some other basic specs:
25 minute flight time
Dual GPS (American/Russian)
Video up to 4K 30fps – 60MB Bitrate
3-Axis Gimbal

Basic Features

What it does NOT have is the “lightbridge” DJI system, which is an advanced wireless protocol…with longer and more reliable range (in many cases).

The P3 models are quite mature and reliable and many pilots may not need the advanced features in more expensive models (obstacle avoidance, etc.). Commercial pilots (Part 107) often desire a “backup bird” in case something happens to their primary camera drone. The Phantom 3 SE seems perfect for such uses.

The Phantom SE (Special Edition) is a well kept secret – but it shouldn’t be. You can buy a cheaper Phantom (DJI Standard…refurb and/or new is $399 to $499) – but you would be missing out on a number of features, most importantly the extended range and better camera.

One might say this is the “Toyota Corolla” of consumer camera drones. It does the job which is asked of it and is reliable and a good value. The Image Quality is on a par with the Phantom 4 (plain) and exceeds that of the Mavic Pro and Spark.

With the purchase of a 2nd battery and a case/backpack you’ll be ready to go “pro” for about $700 brand new.

Note – at the time of this writing the Phantom 3 SE is not listed on Amazon, so you’ll probably be best off ordering direct from DJI at this link. Note that the downloads and specs tabs on that page will offer further details on this new budget 4K model.

Phantom 3 SE (Special Edition)

DJI Spark Camera Drone – Is it for You?

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Droneflyers.com received a review model of the DJI Spark Camera Drone before the official launch. We therefore have had a few months to put the model through its paces and determine the pros and cons of this ultra-portable quadcopter. Note that we have our initial review in this article as well as a number of Spark videos at our youtube channel. These may answer many of your questions, however the below is a summary of our thoughts at the present time. We will present most of the benefits and features in the beginning of the article and list out the major “cons” (what it doesn’t do, etc.) at the end.

What is Spark and who is it for?

The DJI Spark is the first mass-market ultra-portable drone that still has most of the features of the larger and heavier models. These include a camera gimbal, front and bottom sensors, dual GPS, FPV, an advanced App and an array of photographic and other options. Up until the Spark, the closest model to this ideal was the Parrot BeBop 2 – which has many of the above features, but lacks a gimbal (mechanical camera stabilizer) – instead using Electronic Image Stabilization to remove vibrations and other unwanted movement from the video(s). Most experts will agree that the mechanical (Spark) camera gimbal results in better overall video than EIS.

The DJI Spark is available with or without an option R/C controller. When purchased without the R/C controller, the range is limited and the model must be controlled using “virtual sticks” which are on the screen. Those who have no experience with either virtual or real “sticks” will likely need a lot of practice (and reading) to become familiar with operating the Spark via Mobile Device. Still, in our opinion, the Spark represents a truly useable camera drone/mobile device combo….something that we feel is lacking with most earlier models.

Adding the R/C controller makes the Spark a much more capable device – extending the range, the control “feel” and other options enough to make it a totally different experience. The R/C controller also features a “Sport” mode – which turns the normally tame Spark into a racer/FPV model that you’ll enjoy flying around the local fields. It can also integrate with the DJI Googles – giving you the full FPV experience (our DJI goggle review is here).  [Read more…]

10 Best Quadcopters and best drones for 2017

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Which are the best drones and quadcopters to buy as of the  Spring of 2017? Read on!

UPDATED April, 2017 – We update this “best drones” listing regularly as new products are released and reviewed.
If you are looking for a ($400-$1500) “stabilized camera drone with GPS” – we have another article comparing the popular 2016/2017 models here.

Please note – one of the top pics in the 1K range, the DJI Mavic Pro, has been far backordered since launch in Oct, 2016 but is now available for quick shipment direct from DJI – click the banner below for current lead times:

Here are some of suggested best drones and quadcopters for 2017

Please note that some of these are not for beginners! Rather they are upgrades after you’ve learned the basics of flying and know exactly what features you desire. Quads best for beginners are marked with an *

We do not suggest the very tiny “nano” thumb size quadcopters for learning or beginners! Here is why.

We currently DO NOT recommend the following brands – 3D Robotics, Walkera, OnagoFly, GoPro. Also, we have had poor luck with Parrot models in the past – however, we are going to look at more current models soon to see if reliability has changed. Also, be wary of ANY crowdfunded (Kickstarter, etc.) models.

Be sure to pick up at least one extra battery and any spares you may want to have on hand (motors, etc.)

Under $100

Micro-Sized – generally the size of your open hand including the propellers

*Hubsan X4 H107L – updated version of the most popular micro- beginners should purchase the option prop guard.

Banggood Link (worldwide and/or US Shipping).

Read the Entire Article by clicking —>> [Read more…]

DJI Mavic Pro – A Miracle Machine, but is it for you?

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The DJI Mavic Pro is a miniaturized folding ($1,000 US) camera drone with specifications that beat most other models under $2K.  The Mavic Pro started shipping to consumer in the middle of October and has quickly become the best selling consumer camera drone ever. In this post we will take a first look at this miracle machine and advise our readers as to where it fits into the current consumer drone landscape. This first look will contain information regarding the basics of Mavic Pro and address the subject who should consider buying this drone. Future articles will contain more typical review information such as flight manners, features, operation, links and more.

Nothing Like it in the World

With the introduction of the Mavic Pro, DJI has created an entirely new class of machine. Comparisons such as “Mavic vs. Phantom 4” or “Mavic vs. Yuneec” hold absolutely no weight since the Mavic is unique in most every way.

Size and weight are, of course, the first obvious differences.  To illustrate how vast the difference is, here are the square inches (total cubic size) of 4 well known drone models in their box or backpack:

Mavic Pro – 340 cubic inches (box size) -machine =1.62 lbs
GoPro Karma – 1587 (backpack) – machine = 4.3 lbs
Phantom 4 – 1645 cubic inches (included case size) – 3 lbs
Yuneec H – 3588 cubic inches (included foam packing size) – machine = 4.3 lbs

The Mavic Pro is a mind blowing 10% of the volume of the Yuneec H – yet it outpaces the Typhoon H in specifications such as range, obstacle avoidance, flight time and overall number of features. Of the models listed above it is the only one that is truly portable. If portability and stealth is your #1 concern, you may not have to read any further – the Mavic Pro may be calling your name. However, the purpose of this article is to educate consumers on why they may want – or not want – the Mavic Pro…so read on for more. [Read more…]

Drone Aerial Photography at the Golden Hour

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The Golden Hour often begins when the tours buses depart that iconic location, tired people head home for dinner or (in the morning) when you just want to hit that snooze button one more time. However, this time period offers a special bonus to Camera Drone pilots.

If filming at golden hour was convenient, then everyone would do it. It takes commitment – but getting up early, or staying up late for that shot is totally worth it. It’s the magic hour or so after the sun rises and before it fully sets that truly can make your images come alive.

Golden House - Credit: Brent Foster

Golden Hour – Credit: Brent Foster

Why? Well, it’s simple. The higher the sun gets, the less shadows you see, therefore the flatter your images look. Alongside the shadows, the sun makes the world feel warmer due to the sun’s rays having to penetrate more atmosphere during that magical hour.

Of course, too many clouds in the sky can completely ruin the shot you’re setting out to achieve and make you wish you’d slept in, but the times you set up and have the perfect conditions will make you come back again and again.

Below are a few tips (outside of getting your butt out of bed!) to maximize your golden hour capturing experience:

Vineyards at Golden Hour (Droneflyers.com)

Vineyards at Golden Hour (Droneflyers.com)

1) Lower is often better:
Flying high can work for some images and video, but staying low can often be more effective and really demonstrate the power of a drone vs a full-scale helicopter. Planning your shot, and treating the drone like a production tool such as a crane, jib, or slider can be much more powerful than simply flying until you’re out of battery. [Read more…]

DJI Phantom 4 – Computer Vision – Part 3 of our Review/Rating

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In part one and part two of our first look at the DJI Phantom 4, we explored the improved construction and upgrading of the various assemblies. At first glance it would appear a Phantom 4 is a “perfected” Phantom 3 Pro. However, there is one major new innovation which makes this a revolutionary model- Computer Vision! This feature – and the current and future ramifications – will be explored in this post.

Computer Vision, Artificial Intelligence, Obstacle Avoidance – what does it all mean? [Read more…]

Drone Sales Forecasts released by CTA

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July, 2016

The CTA (Consumer Technology Association) has released their projections for the US and worldwide Drone market for the years 2016-2020. Droneflyers.com was proud to provide essential data and consulting to the CTA (produces of the CES Show in Las Vegas) in order to help them provide the most accurate projections possible.

After studying their new report we conclude that they did a fine job in comparison to their earlier models. Here are some of the highlights and some editorial on their projections and the market in general.

Highlights – and some of our opinions!

The US represents approx. 25% of all Consumer Drone revenue worldwide. This figure is probably lower than the former 30% as the ROW (Rest of World), especially China and Europe, increase in sales and importance.
[Read more…]

ALTI – Double hybrid VTOL UAS Announced

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The ALTI Transition is a radically new VTOL unmanned aerial aircraft, developed from the ground up as an advanced fixed wing system with the ability to take-off and land vertically, anywhere. A powerful electric VTOL system allows the Transition to take-off and land in confined spaces and once at altitude, a 20cc four stroke petrol motor keeps the system airborne for up to 6 hours with support for a wide range of payloads and sensors that can quickly be swapped out and setup. Fully featured autonomous PX4 based open and proprietary software and hardware avionics system with easy to use ground control systems to suite. [Read more…]