We say quadrocopter - DJI automatically pops up in my head. We say DJI - frames of stunning videos from a bird's eye view float before our eyes. The mountains. Rivers. sunsets. More recently, DJI has updated its consumer line of devices, introducing the fourth generation of Phantoms.

Phantom 4. Without any Advanced, Pro and other set-top boxes. What has changed, what has remained the same, how critical the changes are and how much you will have to pay for all this splendor - read today with us.

Everything new is well forgotten old

One step is revolutionary, the second is evolutionary. Intel does it, Apple does it, DJI does it. Such a strategy even bears a completely official name, "Tick-tock". Continuity in design and common features seem to have remained the same, if you don’t look at quadcopters every day, it’s hard to say what has changed. Inside, everything is completely different. Literally every aspect of the drone has been redesigned. It's time to open the box and find out what's new.

The device comes in a case with a handle, which can be used to transport the device - all the details fit inside (the drone itself, the remote control, the blades, the tablet, charging and other little things), and there is also a locking mechanism.

New camera and gimbal

Shooting from the air is perhaps the key function of this class of devices. In the end, you don’t just take it to fly, do you? Here. And the quality of shooting in this case is affected by two things: the camera module itself (matrix, optics) and how it is stabilized. Here and there, the new Phantom 4 has arguments.

In previous models, the camera attachment mechanism was in plain sight: rubberized vibration protection attached the stabilizer subframe to the frame with motors, the stabilizer itself was quite large and heavy. The fourth in this regard looks much simpler. The gyrostabilizer and vibration protection themselves are integrated into the drone design: the motors have become more accurate, the unsprung masses are lower, and the stabilization system itself no longer uses only its own separate set of sensors, eliminating the consequences of movements, but receives data from the drone itself, and can calculate and compensate for movement even before how it starts.

The camera module has also been updated: perhaps today it is one of the best "flying" cameras in the user segment. Matrix size - 1 / 2.3 "(like standard "soap dishes", but still much larger than smartphones). Optics with a fixed focal length and a viewing angle of 94 degrees are designed specifically for this matrix and taking into account the use "in the sky "". The relative aperture aperture is f / 2.8, the focus is fixed at infinity. The sharpness zone is approximately starting from 50-70 centimeters from the lens.

The main "limiter" with such a camera module is the processor that will process the video stream. His throughput not bad - about 60 megabits per second, but this is far from a record.

At 4k2k and 2.7k resolutions (2716x1524), the maximum available frame rate is 30. (2.7k is compressed from 4k2k, its main purpose is to save space, so the frame rate is the same as the higher resolution). A FullHD frame carries four times less information, so a four times higher frame rate is available for the FullHD format - up to 120FPS. Use it to increase the smoothness of the picture or slow down the time - it's up to your heart's content.

Surprisingly, 720p is limited to 60FPS, apparently, it is also obtained by FullHD compression, and the signal processor resources are simply not enough for 120FPS and video stream compression at the same time.

The developers have made sure that you can not only shoot, but also edit videos. To do this, the camera added support for professional D-Log and Cine-D gamma formats. Watching them "as is" is not much fun, but when processing and color grading in such a video, there is much more useful information, you can achieve both dramatic shadow shots and stunning, vibrant sunsets without changing settings or interrupting shooting.

That's what D-Log is capable of

Of course, all 12 megapixels of the camera module are available in photo mode. As a result, you can choose both classic.jpeg and / or Adobe RAW format (DNG).

Out of the box, the drone can shoot time lapse, carry out regular continuous shooting (up to 7 frames), as well as shoot blanks for HDR with exposure bracketing - from 3 to 5 frames in 0.7 EV increments.

Sample photos (with a little post-processing of the RAW file; clickable):

Housing and new sensors

A camera is a camera, but it still needs to be delivered to heaven. In the most primitive version, the quadrocopter frame is assembled from sticks and ... electrical tape. And nothing, flies. But Phantom 4 is far enough from the word "primitive". Its frame is a small work of art. Easy. Torsional resistant. Minimally affecting the flow of exhaust air. Yes, and streamlined.

With a slight movement of the hand… the blades are fixed on the motors, and the Phantom 4 will only need to be turned on - from the state “in the box” to “ready to fly”, with proper dexterity, it takes no more than a minute.

What does it give? The drone flies faster, higher, farther (especially when you consider that batteries and communications are the main problem for "farther" - here every milliamp saved as a result of thoughtful aerodynamics is a plus). It is less swayed by the wind. The attachment point of the gimbal and camera has become closer to the center of mass, which means that the drone itself is easier to balance (and spends less energy on it), and it also means that the camera gimbal needs to spend less energy and time deflecting and adjusting rolls.

In general, there are improvements in aerodynamics, and they are solid pluses. All of them somehow reduce power consumption, simplify control and make video recording more stable.

But it seemed to the engineers that it was not enough just to achieve amazing results with only one body. They added to all this splendor 2 additional cameras and 2 ultrasonic sonars used for flight stabilization and obstacle recognition.

New flight modes and intelligent control system

The system of sensors and cameras was introduced for a reason. DJI software developers literally created a miracle: the drone received the Tap to Fly intelligent flight system. Works very simply. You select the flight altitude, use the touch screen of your device to indicate where to fly, and the Phantom 4 obediently performs. Avoiding obstacles and trying to behave decently in general.

The sensors are also active in manual flight mode - if you stubbornly fly "into the wall", the Phantom 4 will sense it, 15 meters before it will start to slow down, and 5 meters away it will start an evasive maneuver. If it succeeds, it will gain altitude / fly around the recognized obstacle, if not, it will simply stop.

Well, the third application for stereo cameras and sonars is the ActiveTrack active tracking mode. If competitors fly after objects using only a picture from a camera, GPS, trackers and other stray things, then here a stereo image is enough to separate moving objects from the background. And flying around obstacles, following the target and keeping it on the sight of the main camera is no longer so difficult.

The changes affected not only the drone, but also its remote control. True, in this case - no revolution. Improving the Phantom 3 controller (without making it more expensive) is very difficult, but "spoiling" all the magic of a simple and convenient control is easy. Therefore, the changes are purely cosmetic and "internal", for the user everything remains in its place, it works the same way as before. Finally signed the "nameless" button - now it's "pause", which makes the drone instantly hover at the point where it is.

Faster, higher, farther, stronger and more accurate

Simple arithmetic. The autonomy of the drone in average conditions has increased by 25% compared to the previous generation. The motors have become more powerful: now the quadcopter can produce up to 70 km/h in calm weather and has a climb rate of up to 6 meters per second. The battery at the same time increased by only ~ 20% (from ~ 4500 to 5500 mAh). That is, a direct difference - 5% - only due to aerodynamics, which made it possible to radically reduce electricity consumption and spend less while doing more. Cool? Cool!

The drone comes with an adapter that can charge both the remote control and the battery at the same time. At the same time, the battery is quick-detachable and has a symmetrical connector for charging.

A full charge of one battery is enough for about 25 minutes, and, as luck would have it, you will always miss “one more minute”. Along with that, wait until full charge you probably don't want to either. Here the only way out is to buy 1-2 spare batteries, however, each one costs the same as an average smartphone.

The integrated camera gimbal not only improved flight performance, but also became more accurate. It is lighter, able to communicate with the built-in sensors of the quadrocopter, the accuracy of the servos is up to 0.3 degrees on each of the axes. Such smooth and high-quality stabilization (with such a compact size) is extremely difficult to achieve, but DJI managed it.

The accuracy of the positioning system (especially where it is most important - that is, at low altitude) has also increased. Horizontal coordinates are kept within 30 centimeters, vertical coordinates - within 10. Above 15 meters, the error increases (up to 50/50, respectively), but there such a scatter no longer causes inconvenience. This is achieved by the simultaneous operation of the sensor system and the navigation unit, which receives data from two satellite systems at once - GPS and GLONASS.

Inertial navigation blocks and digital compasses are duplicated - the difference in values ​​allows you to eliminate the error / measurement error, and in the case of a malfunction of one of the modules - to get home without any special adventures.

Software update

DJI, however, is not in vain called Apple in the field of quadcopters. In the best sense of this comparison - good hardware, a well-chosen balance of characteristics, ease of mastering basic features, deeply buried chips for those who are in the know and know how to get the most out of the device ... And, of course, the synergy of software and hardware.

Along with the Phantom 4, the DJI GO proprietary software also received an update. Improved the training mode (aka "beginner mode", which appeared with the Phantom 3). A set of reasonable restrictions and the obstacle detection system turned on to its fullest will help you take the first steps in shooting from the air and not break the propellers.

DJI GO Universal App - Varies depending on the connected device.

Developers of compatible hardware/software also received pleasant bonuses - all sorts of new libraries, a new SDK, the ability to develop applications and hardware improvements for the Phantom 4 ... In general, these are such changes, the effect of which can only be felt with time.

Eventually

The upgrade from Phantom 3 to Phantom 4 looks like a transition from any "evolutionary" iPhone to a "revolutionary" one. Here you have higher clarity, more speed, and more stylish new design, and new boring wallpapers ... I mean, new useful features. The Phantom 4, if not perfect, is good in almost everything, and definitely worth every ruble spent on it.

Specifications

Quadcopter

Max flight time
28 minutes

Maximum rate of climb
6 m/s

Maximum sink rate
4 m/s

Maximum flight speed
20 m/s (up to 70-80 km/h)

Working temperature range
from 0° to 40°

satellite positioning
GPS, Glonass

Maximum flight altitude
120m, without limitation - up to 6000m by hardware, depends on the operating range of the remote control.

Vertical point hold error
with Vision Positioning - 0.1m, without - 0.5m

Horizontal point hold error
with Vision Positioning - 0.3m, without - 1.5m

Weight
1380 grams

Camera

Lens
Angle of view (FOV) - 94°, 35 mm, f/2.8, focus - ∞

Matrix resolution
12 megapixels

Matrix size
1/2.3"

ISO
video: 100 - 3200, photo: 100 - 1600

Maximum Resolution
4000×3000 pixels

Shutter speed range
8 - 1/8000 sec.

Photo formats
JPEG, DNG (Adobe RAW)

Video formats
mp4, MOV (MPEG-4 AVC, H.264)

SD card support
Micro SD up to 64 gigabytes

Movie modes
UHD: 4096×2160 (4K) - 24, 25p
3840×2160 (4K) - 24, 25, 30p
2704×1520 (2.7K) - 24, 25, 30p
FHD: 1920×1080 - 24, 25, 30, 48, 50, 60, 120p
HD: 1280×720 - 24, 25, 30, 48, 50, 60p

Remote Control

Frequency range
2.400GHz to 2.483GHz

Maximum signal transmission distance
FCC: 5km, CE: 3.5km

Transmitter power
FCC: 23 dBm CE: 17 dBm

Battery
Lithium polymer, 6000 mAh

Obstacle detection module

Detection range
from 0.7 to 15 meters

Battery

Capacity
Lithium polymer, 5350 mAh

Voltage
15.2 volts

Weight
462 grams

Charger

Voltage
17.4 volts

Power
100 watts

Ah yes, about the rubles. The company finally decided to save customers from the problem of choice suitable model, therefore, instead of an assortment of different modifications, she presented one and only - just Phantom 4. And you can buy this miracle of technology, including on the shelves of M.Video. True, as the best new iphone”, a new product from DJI costs a lot - at the time of this writing it is 124 thousand rubles. But here you can at least be sure that you will not lose with the choice.

Have questions? Ready to answer them in the comments. Well, this, successful flights to you, hang in there!

Tags: Add tags

The DJI Phantom range of drones is the standard for filming quadcopters. Usually, experts give Phantoms the highest rating. However, amateur-level shooting quadcopters (20,000 - 70,000 rubles) have some limitations, especially when it comes to video and photo quality. Drones at this price level shoot in quality as good smartphones, while many people think that the quality will be like that of expensive DSLRs. I have a Sony RX-100 camera, the pictures are very high quality and on the level.

General information about the Phantom 4 quadcopter

The Phantom 4 Professional (P4P) model (approximately 80,000 rubles) is of this level of photo and video, providing high quality aerial photography for a price that will not hit your pocket too hard, for such quality, of course. Before the release of the Phantom 4, the pilot had to look at the drones of the DJI Inspire line with the X5 camera in order to have the same quality that the Phantom 4 now offers.

The Phantom 4 has a larger camera that improves photo and video quality

Matrix, bitrate and quality

Video quality depends on the sensor size of the camera's sensor and the type of camera sensor and lens. Another important role is played by the speed of data transfer to the memory card, which can be developed by the matrix sensor. 4K video at 30 frames per second is a lot of data. The larger the matrix, the better the quality of photos and videos, but technology also contributes, and now even small matrices with the help of various software and hardware settings produce very high-quality images.

The bit rate of a camcorder is the rate at which data is written to a storage device. Expressed in Mbps or MBits \ s (Mbps - megabit), mean millions of bits per second. Internet speed is also usually indicated, i.e. the larger the number, the faster the write speed.

Many hobby quadcopter cameras use 20-50 Mbps bitrate, and the Phantom 4 uses 60 Mbps. For example, a GoPro sports action camera records at 45-60 Mbps. The photos of these cameras are in the 12MP range - 4000x3000 pixels.

But the PRO version - Phantom 4 PRO has a video recording speed of 100 Mbps, and a photo resolution of 20 MP! The camera uses an excellent matrix Sony Exmor 1, it has a size of 4X(116 mm versus 29 mm) versus the 1/2.3 matrix found in other shooting drones. This size means that more light will fall on the matrix, which means the quality will be better. This combination of high bitrate and large sensor takes the Phantom 4 Pro to the next level.

Matrix of Phantoma 4 pro and other quadcopters to understand the difference in size

How the Phantom 4 Pro differs from the regular version

The improved camera is the main reason for the upgrade of the Phantom, which will attract the attention of many photographers. However, DJI has also upgraded other features of its quadcopter, making it the top drone in its class.
Some of the improvements in the PRO version:

• Flight range increased to 7 kilometers
• Flight time increased to 30 minutes
• Improved "Sensing System" - a system of sensors in front and behind, this allows you to develop more speed and more range.
• A new sensor system has been added - infrared obstacle protection on the left and right sides of the quadcopter.
• Improved smart modes and options.

Note: The physical size and weight are almost unchanged from the Phantom 4. Visually, only the camera has become larger, take a look below.

Another difference is the control panel. DJI offers a remote with a screen on Android. This remote also has a standard HDMI output as well as GPS sensor, microphone and speakers. but you can refuse this and buy a regular remote control for your phone or tablet. For the first time, DJI offers a screen to the remote, this has never happened before.

All these changes and additions are certainly impressive, but the main change is the camera, let's get back to the quality of photos and videos.

My favorite matrix is ​​Sony 1″

In 2012, Sony released a 1-inch matrix digital camera (RX-100), which was quickly brought to the top of the ratings as the best camera, here is an example photo of that device in auto mode:

An example photo from a Sony 1″ matrix

As you can see, the matrix takes a very good picture, and more a high resolution(20MP) will allow you to process photos more freely.

Phantom 4 Pro Camera Features

To make this review a little shorter, here are the main specs of the camera.

Thus, in this quadcopter the camera is 20 megapixels, instead of the usual 12. The camera also has autofocus, other models, for example, have a fixed focus. The Phantom 4 Pro is capable of taking the same shots as drones costing $200,000 and up.

Video. Extended capabilities

The Phantom 4 Pro has more video capabilities than any other quadcopter in this range. price category, there are a number of reasons for this:

1. A large matrix and a large video recording bitrate are the main advantages.
2. The modern H265 video compression codec standard is (High Efficiency Video Coding or HEVC). Until now, most filming drones use the H264 codec, although 265 has long been known, but do not use it due to the fact that its calculations require significant computing resources, but the Phantom 4 Pro hardware allows you to use this codec.

What does H265 do? Experts say that it improves the quality of video at the same bitrate by about 2 times than H264, and now add 100 Mbps bitrate to this and you get just incredible video quality. Better quality will probably be required only by operators from Major Motion Pictures or Cable-Broadcast, National Geographic Specials, etc., but most likely they will use at least Inspiration 2.

Basic Video Feature

Full description can be viewed in pdf file:

H 264(popular codec)
4K - up to 4096×2160 24/25/30/48/50/60p @100Mbps
2.7K - up to2720×1530 48/50/60p@80Mbps
HD-1920×1080 48/50/60/120p@80Mbps@65Mbps
(frame rate 120fps for slow motion)

H 265 (new codec for best quality video)
4K - up to 4096×2160 24/25/30p @100Mbps
2.7K - up to2720×1530 48/50/60p@80Mbps
HD- 1920×1080 48/50/60p @80Mbps @65Mbps

New Intelligent Flight Modes

The following flight modes have been added and updated:

New mode - Draw: allows you to create a flight path/route by putting points on the screen with a future route.

Updated mode ActiveTrack: New Circle, Parallel and Spotlight allow the quadcopter to circle around an object in a variety of ways.

New mode - Gesture mode: Gesture mode. By performing a certain gesture, the drone will follow you (for example, for a selfie).

Updated Mode - TapFly: now works in reverse, and can also work in free mode.

Landing accuracy. Drawing up a route, flight ranges and much more, setting up various scenarios of the Phantom's behavior, for example, after flying the compiled route once, it will land at the specified place, or fly to the second circle and so on in a circle.
Phantom 4 Pro photo, click to view full size

conclusions

The best part about the Phantom 4 pro is that the people at DJI were able to put all the pieces together so that it fits all the intended purposes. Unusual smartphone with a bad build or poor quality camera will not be good just because of the fast processor. A new car will be much safer if it has traffic and driver control systems, and all this is implemented as a whole.

Phantom 4 Professional, in our opinion, justifies the status of Professional. This is perhaps a truly premium shooting quadcopter with a price of up to 120,000 rubles. The combination of proven features (design, engines, app, radio control, etc.) with significant improvements to old features and the addition of new ones, increased range and improved obstacle avoidance make it unbeatable for both professional and amateur photo and video shooters. .

Introduction

On November 16, 2016, the UAV leader presented two novelties at once: the Inspire 2 and Phantom 4 Pro drones. If everything is clear with the Inspire 2, since the first version it has shown its true purpose in the field of cinema and has significantly reduced the gap between amateur and professional photo and video shooting. But the appearance of the Phantom 4 Pro puzzled me a little, and the question immediately arose of how different it is from its already ideal brother Phantom 4, or is it still a marketing ploy by the company?

In this review, we will not re-talk about the already known benefits that were pumped into the Pro version. In a comparative review, we will only point out their differences, which in turn will help many make the right and practical choice.

About the product

After unpacking, you will visually see the same Phantom 4 and it will hardly be possible to see how different it has become. The first thing that catches the eye of an experienced owner is the presence additional sensors back and sides of the drone. Then you will see the difference in the ventilation ducts on the arms of the drone, they have become a little larger, and someone will be able to see the external differences in the cameras, but you can’t even imagine how much it has changed with the addition of the letter Pro.

Peculiarities

• Visual positioning in 5 directions
• 20MP camera with 1" CMOS sensor
• Shooting in 4K at 60 fps
• mechanical shutter
• Added new H.265 video compression format
• Increased maximum video stream speed to 100 Mbps
• Improved 3-axis gimbal
• Added new control hardware with built-in ultra-bright 5.5" FHD display
• Improved video link LightBridge HD
• Extended frequency range
• Increased video signal transmission distance up to 7km
• Added intelligent flight modes
• Increased flight time to 30 minutes

A weighty set of innovations, isn't it, now about everything in order.

Positioning

Thanks to 4 built-in high-resolution stereo vision sensors (front and back), as well as an infrared object recognition system on the left and right sides of the drone, a complex of ultrasonic sensors in its lower part, the quad now sees both below and around itself on 360º.

Based on the information received from all visual positioning systems, the quad is able to identify obstacles in advance (30 meters in front) and plan their flight paths. If it becomes impossible to fly around an obstacle, the drone will simply hover, preventing a collision.

Also, this whole system allows you to carry out a safe flight without GPS (indoors, when flying through window openings, etc.), on top speed up to 50km/h.

All of the above visualization complex, coupled with 2-band satellite positioning (GPS / GLONASS), with duplicating 2 × IMU sensors and 2 × compasses, is controlled by a powerful multi-core processor, which ensures accurate, coordinated operation of all systems. This approach provided the drone with impressive autonomy. The Phantom 4 Pro can allow the pilot to fully immerse himself in the world of shooting without paying attention to the controls.

Camera

The size of the sensor used in the camera is a more important criterion for obtaining quality image than the number of pixels. After all, the more information the sensor can capture, the better the dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio will be in low light. The 1-inch CMOS sensor in the Phantom 4 Pro is almost four times the size of the Phantom 4's camera sensor. It uses more pixels, has a maximum ISO of 12800, and has a higher contrast ratio.

The new camera has been completely redesigned with a 1-inch 20-megapixel sensor. It has an optimized wide-angle lens (F2.8) with an equivalent focal length of 24mm. The lens consists of eight lenses (spherical and aspherical) located in seven groups. This approach ensures the clarity of the picture, eliminating any kind of aberration of the optical system over its entire area.

AT new camera For the first time, a mechanical shutter type was used (max. speed 1/2000), which eliminates distortion when shooting at high speed.

The electronic shutter has also been improved, with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 second. The new "Burst Mode" (continuous shooting) now captures 20MP images at 14 frames per second. In essence, the P4 Pro camera has the potential of traditional handheld professional cameras.

For the first time, MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) results have been released for the DJI Innovation P4Pro camera, so that people can learn more about the characteristics of the new lens.

The camera supports both the previous H.264 video compression format, which allows you to shoot video in 4K at 60 fps (max. resolution 4096 × 2160 at 60 fps), and the new H.265 with 4K video quality at 30fps ( max resolution 4096 × 2160 at 30 fps) and all this with a bit rate of 100Mbps. The supported H.265 video codec doubles the amount of image processing compared to H.264, resulting in double the image quality. Recording in high dynamic range D-Log (D-log mode) significantly optimizes and improves the quality of the material. This approach provided the camera with a more detailed image capture, which, in turn, made it possible to achieve the highest quality photo and video material.

transmitter

Typically, the drone is controlled at a frequency of 2.4GHz, and the video stream is transmitted at 5.8GHz. Since the frequencies do not overlap, conflicts between channels are also excluded. But at the same time, the use of different frequencies has its drawbacks. For example, flight performance will be affected when either of the two frequencies is interfered with.

Phantom 4 Pro equipment received an improved video transmission system - LightBridge HD, support for data transmission at a frequency of 5.8 GHz has been added. The ability to choose between frequencies eliminates interference and delays in the transmission of the video stream caused by the widespread use of the 2.4GHz frequency.

LightBridge HD

Digital video link - LightBridge HD uses the well-known TDM (Time Division Multiplexing) technology for signal transmission, which allows you to combine several low-speed input channels into one high-speed channel.

Since 2.4GHz frequency is the most commonly used Wi-Fi routers, 4G cell towers, the advent of the 5.8GHz frequency will significantly increase the reliability of data exchange between the equipment and the drone.

When the Phantom 4 Pro is turned on, the system evaluates local signal levels, automatically selecting the transmit frequency with the lowest interference. With this approach, DJI developers have been able to provide optimal performance equipment over the entire frequency range, and the maximum transmission range of the video stream has increased to 7 km.

The kit can include both standard equipment and new equipment with a built-in FHD display. The built-in 5.5 inch (13.97cm) 1080p screen is the brightest display (1000cd/m²) in a smart device. Now the sun will not affect the display of information on the screen, even under direct sunlight.

The owner of new equipment no longer needs mobile device for compilation with a drone, which in turn reduces the time for pre-flight preparation. The DJI GO app is already installed and optimized with both software and hardware, furthermore it has reduced video lag time.

Also built into the new equipment are: HDMI port, MicroSD slot, microphone, built-in speaker, and via Wi-Fi, you can edit the received images almost instantly. And finally, the power supply of the transmitter is designed for as much as five hours. battery life with the Phantom 4 Pro quadcopter.

Flight modes

The Phantom 4 Pro quadcopter received 5 intelligent flight modes.

Draw- absolutely new technology waypoint flight. Simply draw a route on the screen and the Phantom 4 Pro will follow the direction and altitude you set. This mode allows the pilot to focus on camera control and photography in general. Draw mode provides two flight options:

1. standard— the drone flies along a given route at a constant speed, where the camera is facing in the direction of flight.
2. Free- the drone flies along the specified route, while the camera is completely at the disposal of the pilot.

ActiveTrack- mode allows the drone to automatically recognize the object, capture and follow it, which in turn makes it easy to get complex shots with it. Chasing a fast-moving subject is no easy task, but thanks to advanced image recognition algorithms, the Phantom 4 Pro easily recognizes and tracks the subject, keeping it in the center of the frame throughout the flight. The new algorithm allows you to recognize people, vehicles, animals, and at the same time adjust the flight dynamics to ensure the smoothest footage.

The pilot will have 3 options for capturing an object:

1. Trace- the drone follows "behind" or "in front" of the object, flying around obstacles in automatic mode.
2. Profile– the drone flies directly next to the object, being at different angles to obtain profile shots with its participation.
3. Spotlight- keeps the camera on the specified object, while the drone can fly from any angle.

TapFly- performs autonomous flight in the forward direction with one touch on the display. Click anywhere within the display where you would like the drone to fly, and then click the “Go” icon again and it will proceed to the specified location, flying in the forward direction around obstacles * . The pilot can always intervene in the flight process by touching one of the sticks.

Appeared new feature"AR route", which shows in real time the current direction of the drone's flight, taking into account all the adjustments by the pilot. In TapFly mode, the pilot focuses on the flight altitude, trajectory, speed and camera position using the sticks of the equipment.

TapFly mode has 3 options:

1. TapFly Forward– for flying autonomously in the forward direction, where the camera looks in the direction of flight.
2. TapFly Backwards– for forward flight autonomously, when the camera looks in the opposite direction from the direction of flight.
3. Tap Fly Free– for flying in a forward direction, with this design, drone control is blocked, but camera control in any direction is available.

*drone does not fly around obstacles when TapFly Free is active.

returntohome- the developers have improved the mode, now the Phantom 4 Pro automatically selects the best return route depending on the conditions environment. While you are flying, the drone writes the current route, if the connection is lost, based on the recorded data and avoiding obstacles, the Phantom 4 Pro will return to the take-off point and make a soft landing.

The Phantom 4 Pro is also able to adjust its flight path based on the altitude it occupied when the connection was lost to avoid the obstacles it recorded during autonomous flight.

Similarly, the Phantom 4 Pro will also record the takeoff location in order to make a more precise landing later on. The drone can detect the ground to analyze the landing site. If any obstacles, such as water, are detected at the landing site, the quad will warn the pilot and hover over this site, waiting for the next commands.

GestureMode- selfie mode, activated by gestures without the use of equipment. Advanced computer vision technology allows the Phantom 4 Pro to follow directions using gestures. It is enough to raise your hands in front of the camera and the drone will recognize the gesture and place the object in the center of the frame. When everything is ready to shoot, the drone will emit a warning tone. After the signal, the subject is given 3 seconds to prepare for a selfie.

Specification

Drone

Flight time:

Weight:

Maximum rate of climb:

Maximum sink rate:

Maximum flight speed:

Working temperature range:

from 0° to 40°

Satellite positioning:

GPS, GLONASS

Maximum flight altitude:

500m, unlimited 6000m

Vertical point hold error:

with Vision Positioning - 0.1m, without - 0.5m

Horizontal point hold error:

with Vision Positioning - 0.3m, without - 1.5m

Camera

Matrix:

1" CMOS; Number of effective pixels: 20M

Lens:

Angle of view (FOV) - 84°, 8.8mm / 24mm (35mm equivalent format), f/2.8 - f/11, focus - from 1m - ∞

Matrix resolution:

20 megapixels

Matrix size:

1 inch

video: 100 – 3200/6400 (Auto/ Manual), a photo: 100 – 3200/12800 (Auto/ Manual)

Maximum resolution:

3:2 Aspect Ratio: 5472 × 3648 / 4:3 Aspect Ratio: 4864 × 3648 / 16:9 Aspect Ratio: 5472 × 3078

PIV picture size:

4096×2160@24/25/30/48/50fps
3840 × 2160 @ 24/25/30/48/50/60 fps
2720 ​​× 1530 @ 24/25/30/48/50/60 fps
1920×1080@24/25/30/48/50/60/120 fps
1280×720@24/25/30/48/50/60/120 fps

Shutter speed

mechanical: 8 - 1/2000sec; electronic: 8 - 1/8000sec

Photo formats:

JPEG, DNG (RAW), JPEG + DNG

Video formats:

MP4/MOV (AVC/ H.264；HEVC/ H.265)

Maximum video bitrate:

100 megabits per second

File systems:

FAT32 (≤ 32GB); exFAT (> 32GB)

SD card support:

Micro SD up to 128GB

single frame
Frame series: 3, 5, 7,10,14 frames
AEB: 3.5 frames with 0.7 EV shift
Time-lapse
HDR

H.265 video modes:

UHD: 4096 × 2160 (4K) - 24, 25, 30 fps at 100Mbps
3840 × 2160 (4K) - 24, 25, 30 fps at 100Mbps
2704 × 1530 (2.7K) - 24, 25, 30 fps at 100Mbps
2720 ​​× 1530 - 48, 50, 60 fps at 80Mbps
FHD: 1920 × 1080 - 24, 25, 30 fps at 50Mbps
1920 × 1080 - 48, 50, 60 fps at 65Mbps

HD: 1280 × 720 - 24, 25, 30 fps at 25Mbps

1280 × 720 - 120 fps at 60Mbps

H.264 video modes:

UHD: 4096 × 2160 (4K) - 24, 25, 30, 48, 50, 60 fps at 100Mbps
3840 × 2160 (4K) - 24, 25, 30, 48, 50, 60 fps at 100Mbps
2720 ​​× 1530 (2.7K) - 24, 25, 30 fps at 80Mbps
2720 ​​× 1530 - 48, 50, 60 fps at 100Mbps
FHD: 1920 × 1080 - 24, 25, 30 fps at 60Mbps
1920 × 1080 - 48, 50, 60 fps at 80Mbps
1920 × 1080 - 120 fps at 100Mbps
HD: 1280 × 720 - 24, 25, 30 fps at 30Mbps
1280 × 720 - 48, 50, 60 fps at 35Mbps
1280 × 720 - 120 fps at 80Mbps

transmitter

Frequency range:

2.400GHz to 2.483GHz and 5.725 – 5.825GHz

Maximum signal transmission distance:

for 2.4GHz: FCC: 7km, CE: 3.5km, SRRC: 4km; for 5.8GHz: FCC: 7km, CE: 2km, SRRC: 4km;

Transmitter power:

for 2.4GHz: FCC: 26 dBm CE: 17 dBm; SRRC: 20dBm
for 5.8GHz: FCC: 28 dBm CE: 14 dBm; SRRC: 20dBm

Battery:

LiPo, 2S, 6000mAh

Video output:

GL300E: HDMI, USB GL300F: USB

Mobile device holder:

GL300E: Built-in display equipment (5.5-inch, 1920 × 1080,
1000 cd/m2, Android: 4GB RAM＋16GB ROM) GL300F: Tablets and smartphones

visual positioning

Speed ​​range:

≤ 50km/h at 2 meters above the ground

Height range:

0 - 10 meters

Worker range:

0 - 10 meters

Detection range

from 0.7 to 30 meters

front and rear sensors: 60°(horizontal), ±27°(vertical); lower: 70°(forward and backward), 50°(left and right)

Frequency definition:

lighting above 15 lux, landscape with a clear structure

infrared system

Detection range:

0.2 - 7 meters

70°(horizontal), ±10°(vertical)

Frequency definition:

Conditions for normal operation

Surface with diffuse reflective material and reflectivity: > 8% (e.g. walls, trees, people, etc.)

suspension

Stabilization:

Operating range:

tilt angle: — 90° to +30°

Max. angular velocity control:

tilt angle: 90°/sec

Angular Control Accuracy:

Shooting beautiful videos that you can't take your eyes off is not as difficult as many people think. To do this, you need to understand several compositional techniques and work out some flight skills. And with the Phantom 4, it will not be difficult. The copter is fully assembled, the batteries are charged and you can go shooting!

If earlier any video taken from a bird's eye view caused delight, today it is quite difficult to surprise someone with such videos. To captivate viewers, subscribers in in social networks or friends, you need to know the techniques of professional shooting, be able to smoothly pilot the copter and control the camera gimbal, choose the right time and take into account many other nuances. But don't despair! We will help you understand the various techniques and tell you how you can easily diversify videos shot on a quadcopter, namely the Phantom 4 (although owners of other drone models can use these tips).

But first, a couple of tips for those who want to get a bright and bewitching picture.

Daylight

The best time to shoot is the "golden hour" or the first 30 minutes after sunrise and the last before sunset. During these hours, the sun is low on the horizon and provides soft lighting that reduces contrast. Long shadows bring out details, while warm undertones add depth to the shot.

Another period that is suitable for aerial photography is called the "blue hour" - about half an hour before sunrise and half an hour after sunset. The lighting acquires a unique hue, the sky is painted in purple tones, the illumination of the panorama is evened out. The footage taken during this time is incomparable.

Rule of thirds

Many professional photographers follow the rule of thirds. The frame is conditionally divided into nine parts by vertical and horizontal lines. The distance from the dash to the edge of the screen should be one third of its size. But you don't need to imagine anything - just turn on such a grid in the Phantom 4 settings. So, in order to get a composition devoid of voids and dips, you need to catch the subject at the intersection of lines. The result is wonderful and natural photos and videos.

Use ND filters

ND filters are sets of neutral density filters that reduce the amount of light reaching the sensor and prevent overexposure. With their help, you will have full control over the parameters of aperture, shutter speed, camera sensitivity and take impressive photos and videos with a slight blur effect.

Don't make sudden movements

Piloting a quadcopter, you need to relax and avoid sudden movements. Set the gimbal smoothness settings to the maximum and adjust the stick response to the yaw axis to your comfort level, as it is the most difficult to control during video shooting.

Consider a future video

During shooting and subsequent editing, do not forget about those who will watch your video. Try to shoot long videos, and when editing material, make scenes longer than 5-10 seconds. When various images, views and objects often flash in a video, the viewer begins to get tired and loses interest in what is happening on the screen.

Research your location beforehand and try to find a unique angle. Of course, many objects look spectacular and beautiful from a bird's eye view, but the video with the simplest TV tower will be a real masterpiece if you shoot it from an unusual point.

And if you want to get the highest quality picture, then use flat profiles such as D-Log and D-Cinelike.

Learn not to be ashamed!

Check out YouTube for more tutorial videos. On the Internet you will find a lot of tips and guidelines. Write on the forums and ask questions to professionals. For example, not every beginner knows that the picture is always smoother when taking off. And when the copter flies forward and sideways, the blades or shadows from them can get into the frame (when moving backwards, this does not happen).

Upgrading piloting skills

Now you know how best to shoot on a quadcopter camera and what time is the most ideal. Let's talk about how to diversify videos by combining automatic modes flight, various trajectories and gimbal rotations. The main thing to remember is that to get an interesting shot, it is enough to move in just two planes.

Diversify your skyselfies. Forget boring videos of the quadcopter pilot slowly moving away. Lower the camera down and begin to slowly ascend by slowly rotating the aircraft. This very simple method will give dynamics and gradually reveal the surrounding space. You can simplify the trick by using Active Track. It is enough to select yourself as a subject for tracking and activate the Spotlight mode.

Capture empty roads, road markings, paths or straight lines. These shots are great for transitioning between scenes. But a simple span looks pretty boring. Let's make it more interesting: point the lens down, find even textures (river bed or road) and fly along them, smoothly rising higher and higher.

Replacing (or supplementing) a smooth take-off with another movement, you add scale to the roller. Fly forward with the camera pointing down and gently raise it to fully reveal the panorama. And to captivate the viewer - fly back. This will slowly open the general view and objects that are in the background.

An excellent assistant during shooting using this technique will be the Draw mode and its Free submode. Just draw a line on the screen along the selected texture and the Phantom 4 will automatically fly along the set course, and you will be able to control the gimbal and height.

Diversify your panoramas. Of course, such videos already look quite impressive, but they often lack dynamics. Climb to a sufficient height, start shooting a panorama and slowly move back or forward. To make the video smooth, we advise you to activate the Tripod mode. The aircraft will limit speed to 7 km/h and activate all sensors for maximum safety

Also with the Tripod mode, it is easy to simulate the shooting effect with a professional camera crane. This is a very beautiful technique and now it is available to all drone pilots. Everything is very simple here: simultaneously take off up or down, keeping the object in the center of the frame. Also try adding forward or backward movement.

Low level flight or flight at extremely low altitude. It should be used in open spaces with textured foreground and background. Looks great video taken during a simple flight forward or backward, and during the flight sideways. Combine this with Terrain Follow Mode. The drone will maintain the recorded altitude from 1 meter, and when flying over terrain with increasing elevation angle, it will take off higher. So you don't have to worry that you are cutting into the nearest hill.

Terrain Follow Mode will also come in handy when shooting with the “Continue look” technique, which is used when shooting a person against the backdrop of a large-scale landscape. The flight path of the copter starts behind the hero and runs along the direction of his movement or gaze. It is necessary to fly over a person, but the flight from the side looks more spectacular.

And the last trick, which is best used in conjunction with the Course Lock mode (the copter will be oriented in space relative to the position of the operator). Point the drone to fly sideways, turn the camera forward and smoothly climb. This method is suitable for capturing subjects or a view that is hidden behind an obstacle (like looking out from behind a wall), such as a mountain range or forest, and the landscape beyond.

DOWNLOAD A RAW DNG PHOTO from Phantom 4 PRO at bottom of page.

Introducing the DJI Phantom 4 Pro.

I have been fortunate to be testing a DJI Phantom 4 Pro, prototype and got to put it through its paces. I'll just cut to the chase and tell you the big news. The Phantom 4 Professional has a completely new camera with a new sensor. It can now shoot 20mp photos and shoot 4k video (60fps) at 100 mb/s. It also has 360 degrees of obstacle avoidance and comes with a built in screen on the controller.

FAQ

Update: I have already seen a few questions (feel free to ask below in the comments). A big one.. Does it take the same batteries as the Phantom 4. A: Yes, it uses the same batteries and Propellers. There is a higher capacity battery available, but the original P4 batteries work just fine too.

360 Degrees Obstacle Avoidance

At first sight, it looks just like the Phantom 4. But on closer examination, you can see read and sider sensors as well as the downward and front sensors. These all work in tandem to produce forward, backward and downward stereo vision. Get this, the new front and rear sensors can see up to 30m (about 100 feet). This enables the P4P to see and recognize objects in it's flight path and to track or avoid objects and obstacles. It also has side IR sensors that can detect obstacles from 7m (23 feet). Because of this improved obstacle avoidance, it can now fly up to 31Mph with obstacle avoidance on (P-mode). This is up from 22mph on the Phantom 4. Top speed is still 45mph in sport mode.

The controller on the Phantom 4 Pro

The controller looks the same from the outside (except for the attached screen). it comes in 2 configs. One has the screen attached, 5.5 inch 1920×1080 1,000 cd/m 2 display. This is about the size of an iPhone 7 plus and has a bright display. Its powered by android and has expandable storage by micro SD. It also has built in compass, GPS, speaker and microphone. The model I have been testing has the build in screen and I love it! No more attaching a mobile device (making sure it's charged) and looking for cables. The fold down screen is attached firmly and can't fall off like a phone or iPad. When you charge the controller, the screen is charged at the same time. It's 2 items, the controller and the drone. Turn on the controller and the screen comes on and the app launches. Its quick and easy! For those of you who love your mobile devices and iPads etc, there is still a controller with BYOD (Bring your own display) option.

Another big thing with the controller is the ability to switch between 2.4 and 5.8 Ghz. This gives better signal in built up areas and also extends the range. (I'm guessing it's using Occusync, I'll have to confirm). The max range is now rated at 4.3 miles (7km).

The Camera On the Phantom 4 Pro

The big news for Photographers/Videographers is the camera, and it is big. The camera now sports a 1″ 20mp sensor (vs 1/2.3 12.4mp on the Phantom 4). The larger sensor (I’m told Sony sensor by a DJI rep) enables much sharper photos and video than before. You also have an adjustable Aperture as well as shutter speed and ISO. This enables you to get the best exposure, while maintaining the desired shutter speed. This is useful for things like maintaining the best shutter speed for video without the need from ND filters. You can blur, or freeze time.

There are Auto, Manual Aperture Priority and Shutter Priority modes.

Two more really big things, the low light performance is amazing and mechanical shutter.

The ISO is now adjustable to 6400 for video and 12,800 for photographs. Don't forget to see the video above to see this in action. I test the low light on video and photographs as well as do a side by side comparison with the Phantom 4 v Phantom 4 Pro.

Here is a panorama shot as ISO 12,800. Yes there is some noise, but it was practically dark when I shot this. I’m not sure if you have tried low light on a drone before? But it has always been almost impossible to get a usable shot.No more!

Here are a couple more in low light with a less extreme ISO setting.

Rolling Shutter vs Mechanical Shutter

The mechanical shutter is also a big deal. You will notice especially less distortion in shooting photographs and in video. When your Phantom 4 is moving horizontally and rotating (yawing) the video is much smoother and there is significantly less distortion. See the video above to get a feel for the better movement.

The usual shooting modes are supported and the burst has been increased to 14 frames at full resolution.

The lens is a 84 degrees 24mm (35mm equ) with f2.8-f11 aperture.

Video modes

Here are the supported video modes (yes, you are reading correctly, it can shoot in H.264 and H.265 at 100Mbps at 4K in both!

Here are some photos I shot with the Phantom 4 Pro

Some of these are retouched and some aren't. I may as well show you the kinds of photos that I would share.

I hope you enjoyed my review. Please bookmark this page, I am going to add 2 or 3 more videos and other resources!

All our Premium Drone training is here:

I have been making best of class drone training videos since the very beginning and have amassed over 24 hours of training on Flying different drones, understanding the flight apps, strategies for getting great video and photos. These videos have all been shot on location in Southern California and the Hawaii Islands. I also have indepth tutorials on how to get the most form of your images in Photoshop, Lightroom and Premiere Pro. Enjoy!

Why PhotoshopCAFE training?
Because this is something I do every day and Im passionate about it, I have written the book “The Photographer’s Guide to Drones” available in bookstores or Amazon. I am currently #1 on DJI’s SkyPixel community, an Adobe ACP and I preset this at the largest conferences and conventions around the USA. I have a lot of good stuff I want to share with you!