Drones for Beginners
Photo Credit: DJI Technology Co.
If you’re seriously considering taking the big leap into the world of drones, there’s no better place to start than DJI. Da-Jiang Innovations (DJI) is the premier drone manufacturer of the world. The company emanates from the technological heart of China, Shenzen. From there, they have developed a global presence and a stellar reputation among professional UAV pilots and drone enthusiasts. That’s why Women Who Drone recommends the following DJI drones for beginners.
Photo Credit: DJI Technology Co.
Tello is an entry-level drone designed to introduce kids and adults to flying and programming. It’s an easy-to-use drone that can be flown with either a controller or Tello phone app. To develop programming skills, Tello also has an educational app, called Tello Edu, that supports Scratch, the introductory coding language made for kids and teens. This app enables the user to learn coding skills while also programming their Tello to move using coding blocks. Its other key features include smartphone VR and VR headset compatibility, a 13-minute flight time, 720p HD transmission, 5mp photography, and auto take-off and landing.
Photo Credit: DJI Technology Co.
The DJI Spark is a small drone with a lot of quality features that are ideal for anyone interested in aerial photography. Available in Alpine White and Lava Red, this mini drone can launch from the palm of your hand after identifying you with FaceAware, a facial recognition technology. Unlike Tello, Spark comes with the following Intelligent Flight Modes: QuickShot for easy photos and videos, TapFly which allows you to direct your drone's flight by tapping in that direction, ActiveTrack recognizes and Tracks moving objects, and Gesture uses hand gestures to take pictures. Its camera can record 1080p video and take 12mp photos. Other features include a mechanical gimbal that helps take stable photos and Pano and ShallowFocus photography. The Spark also has a 16-minute max flight time, and a Sport Mode that supports FPV goggles for an immersive aerial experience.
Photo Credit: DJI Technology Co.
Available in Arctic White, Onyx Black, and Flame Red, The Mavic Air has many of the same features as the Spark along with some new features to complement its more advanced specifications. The DJI Mavic Air boasts a 4K camera, 21 minutes of flight time and 8GB of internal storage. The camera is capable of capturing 32mp sphere panoramas and slow motion at 120 frames per second. A key design feature of this drone is its ability to fold for portability.
I am a writer and an artist based in Georgia. Specializing in illustration, graphic design, and video art, I love to explore the new ways technology intersects with art. I think drones have done amazing things for photography and video art, making what would previously be costly and difficult more accessible. As a complete novice, it was only recently that I saw what independent artists could do with their drones, and I continue to be impressed by the sights that drones are able to explore and the images they can capture. Instagram: @tyesha.ferron
