Top 3 Beginner-Friendly Drones for Amazing Aerial Photos in 2024
Ready to take your photography to the next level?
Drones have revolutionized the way we capture the world around us, and in 2024, they're more accessible than ever for beginners.
Here are the three best drones that combine ease of use with impressive image quality, helping you soar into aerial photography with confidence.
Quick Comparison
1. DJI Mini 3: The Compact Powerhouse
Why It's Perfect for Beginners
The DJI Mini 3 is a game-changer for novice pilots. Its ultra-lightweight design not only makes it incredibly portable but also exempts it from many drone regulations in various countries.
Key Features
4K video at 30fps
12MP photos
3-axis gimbal for smooth footage
Weighs just 249g
31-minute flight time
User Experience
I found the Mini 3's intuitive controls and stable flight performance to be a confidence booster.
The compact size meant I could easily take it on hikes, capturing breathtaking landscapes with ease.
It's perfect for travel vlogs, nature photography, and casual aerial shots.
2. Holy Stone HS720E: Budget-Friendly Excellence
Why It's Great for Beginners on a Budget
The Holy Stone HS720E proves that you don't need to break the bank for quality aerial photography. It offers an impressive feature set at a fraction of the cost of premium models.
Key Features
4K video at 30fps
16MP photos
3-axis gimbal and brushless motors
GPS and intelligent flight modes
Impressive 46-minute flight time
User Experience
Many of my students have started with the HS720E, and they're consistently impressed by its stability and the quality of footage they can achieve.
The extended flight time is particularly useful for learning and perfecting shots.
It's ideal for real estate photography, event coverage, and long-duration shoots.
3. DJI Air 2S: Professional Quality for Ambitious Beginners
Why It's Worth the Investment
While it comes with a steeper learning curve, the Air 2S has been a game-changer for my aerial photography.
The image quality rivals that of much larger, professional drones, and the automated modes help capture cinematic shots with ease.
It's perfect for professional videography, high-resolution landscape photography, and complex aerial maneuvers.
Key Features
5.4K video and 20MP photos
1-inch CMOS sensor for superior image quality
Advanced obstacle avoidance sensors
Compact and portable design
Automated shooting modes
User Experience
While it comes with a steeper learning curve, the Air 2S has been a game-changer for my aerial photography.
The image quality rivals that of much larger, professional drones, and the automated modes help capture cinematic shots with ease.
DJI Buyer Cheat Sheet
Tips for Getting Great Aerial Photos and Videos
Fly slowly and smoothly for stable video footage.
Let the drone hover for crisp, shake-free photos.
Use a low ISO and fast shutter speed (1/500s or higher) for sharp images.
Take advantage of golden hour lighting for stunning landscapes.
Experiment with intelligent flight modes like orbit and waypoints.
Edit your footage in software like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere for a professional touch.
And That’s It
Whether you're looking for ultra-portability with the DJI Mini 3, budget-friendly features with the Holy Stone HS720E, or professional-grade quality with the DJI Air 2S, there's a perfect drone waiting to level up your photography in 2024.
The best drone is the one that fits your specific needs and helps you capture the shots you've always dreamed of.
Happy flying!
Have you tried any of these drones? Share your experiences in the comments below, or ask any questions you might have about getting started with drone photography.
P.S. Want to see what's possible with these drones? Check out my personal gallery of aerial shots here. You'll be amazed at the perspectives you can capture!