That being said, the is great fun to fly and the video footage is just so jaw-droppingly beautiful that you’ll never tire of looking at it. Even if you don’t use it as a still photography tool, being able to explore a location from a first-person perspective without leaving your seat is simply incredible. There are several apps available which give you a broad idea of where you can and cannot fly, but judging by others’ experiences, many local authorities are still not aware of the flight restrictions. I also appreciated the fact that the most important features in the Go app are also accessible via the controller’s hardware buttons. The mapping functionality of the Phantom 4 quadcopter is also amazing.
The dji drones Pro offers two remote controllers, one with a dedicated screen (Phantom 4 Pro+) and one without. ActiveTrack lets you track any moving object by simply drawing a box around the object and tapping Go on your smartphone or tablet controller. It’s impressive, consistently tracking moving objects well and keeping the camera focused on the subject. In addition, you can fly the drone around this moving object to create sweeping, cinematic sequences that let even beginner flyers try Spielberg-like shots.
Version 2 of theDJI Phantom 4 Pro Plusincludes all the same great features as the original Phantom 4 Pro. It boasts several enhancements, including improved resolution for on-controller live-view streaming, enhanced connectivity, and more. Like the original, the Phantom 4 Pro Version 2 features a 3-axis-stabilized gimbal camera with a 20MP 1″ CMOS sensor capable of shooting up to 4K/60 fps video and photo bursts at up to 14 fps. It also utilizes the FlightAutonomy system, which includes dual rear-vision sensors and infrared sensing for a total of five directions of obstacle sensing and four directions of obstacle avoidance. Instead of Lightbridge, the Phantom 4 Pro Version 2 now uses Ocusync, enabling improved live video stream performance.
Other notable enhancements include lighter props and reduced overall takeoff weight, wireless integration with DJI Goggles, and bolstered transmission power. The Phantom 4 Pro redefines the iconic Phantom series, bringing imaging and intelligence to new heights. Its uprated camera shoots 4K/60fps at a bitrate of 100Mbps and stills up to 20-megapixels, creating dramatically better images. The FlightAutonomy system adds dual rear vision sensors and two Time of Flight range imaging cameras for a total of 5 directions of obstacle sensing with a range of up to 30m in all directions. The upgraded Lightbridge HD video transmission system offers an extended maximum transmission range of 4.3mi and also enables you to switch between 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz. It can also be used with an optional integrated monitor for even more reliable transmission.
Auto focus can also be triggered by half-pressing the shutter button, before fully pressing the shutter to capture an image. ActiveTrack allows an aircraft to track a moving subject without a separate GPS tracker. Simply tap on the mobile device screen inside the DJI GO app to select the subject to be tracked. The aircraft will lock on the subject and start tracking it automatically from a safe distance. The prices of drones at the consumer level have risen in step with the advancements they offer. Fast forward to the current day, and that means that you’re looking to spend $1,500 on a top-tier consumer-grade drone.
The left stick flies forward, backward, to the left, and to the right. Once it’s powered on, give the Phantom a minute to ensure that it’s locked onto GPS satellites, and to make sure that the home point is correct. Satellite status is displayed in the DJI Go app, as is the home point. If you’re using a smartphone, you’ll see a world map as a small embedded window in the live feed.
I recorded everything at full auto settings, this is what you will see straight out of the box. Additional video settings include 720p and 1080p up to 120 fps, 2720×1530 up to 60 fps, 4K up to 60 fps and Cinematic 4K up to 50 fps. Overall, the Phantom 4 Pro is a responsive drone, fast and able to go wherever you point it. As long as you remain within line of sight and under 400 feet. That said, if your laws are different than mine, you can soar this machine up to 19,685 feet. This is a service ceiling, you’re probably going to want to be 19,000 feet or higher yourself when you launch – very impressive no matter how you look at it.
To compare the data outcome with the same image GSD of 1.8 cm (0.7 in)/px, we flew the RTK at 65 m and the WingtraOne RX1RII at 133 m altitude. Let us know if you’d like to take a test image with your drone and share it, and we might be able to send you a test poster free of charge. If you would like to discuss ways to improve your drone program Aerotas is here to help.