Are you a real estate photographer looking for a drone to help you get those perfect shots? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the 5 best drones for real estate photography in 2023.
Before we get into that, let’s first understand what real estate photography is and why drones have become such an important tool for this genre of photography.
Real estate photography is all about capturing the best possible shots of a property that is up for sale. These photos are usually used by the seller or the real estate agent to market the property in the best light possible and attract potential buyers.
While traditional photography methods can still be used to take good photos of a property, drones offer a unique perspective that can really make a property stand out. With their ability to capture aerial shots, drones can help you show off a property in a whole new way.
Now that we’ve got a basic understanding of real estate photography and why drones are so useful for this genre, let’s take a look at the 5 best drones for real estate photography.
Overview of the Best Drones for Real Estate Photography?
| Image | Drones | Detail | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | DJI Mavic 3 Classic | Professional Grade Cameras, | Price |
 | DJI MINI 4 PRO | High High-definition cameras, Best for Beginners and professionals, budget-friendly. | Price |
 | DJI AIR 2S | Best cameras for day and night photography, Easy to control. | Price |
 | Parrot Anafi | Best Silent drone with HD cameras the cheapest drone in the list. | Price |
 | DJI PHANTOM 4 PRO Plus | High-resolution cameras, Professional, Easy controls, Long flight range. | Price |
Factors to Consider Before Buying the Best Drone for Real Estate Photography?
Selecting the ideal drone for real estate photography can be a game-changer in capturing stunning aerial shots of properties. In my quest for the best drones, I’ve narrowed down the selection based on six key features that every potential buyer should consider.
Let me share my insights on what makes a drone stand out for real estate photography.
1. Camera Quality:
The heart of any real estate drone is its camera. Look for drones equipped with high-resolution cameras, ideally 20 megapixels or more, to ensure your shots are crisp and detailed. Adjustable aperture settings provide flexibility in different lighting conditions. A good quality camera is crucial for capturing images and videos of your property.
In my list, I have shortlisted the best camera drones available in the market. Additionally, consider drones with advanced camera features like HDR and low-light performance, allowing you to capture the true essence of a property, whether it’s a sunny exterior or a cozy interior.
2. Flight Time and Battery Life:
Longer flight times and extended battery life are crucial for maximizing your time in the air. Aim for drones that offer at least 25 minutes of flight time or more per battery charge. This allows you to cover extensive properties without the need for frequent returns to recharge.
Keep in mind that factors like wind conditions and payload can affect flight time, so a drone with a robust battery life provides a significant advantage in the field.
3. Range and Connectivity:
To explore expansive properties and capture diverse angles, prioritize drones with a reliable and long-range remote control system. Look for a drone that offers a control range of at least 5 kilometers or more.
Stable connectivity is essential, especially when flying in urban environments with potential signal interference. Drones with enhanced connectivity ensure that you maintain control and receive live video feeds consistently, guaranteeing a smooth and successful shoot.
4. GPS and Navigation:
For precision and accuracy in your aerial shots, choose a drone with advanced GPS capabilities. GPS enables precise positioning and facilitates features like automatic return-to-home, obstacle avoidance, and intelligent flight modes.
These modes, such as follow-me and waypoints, not only enhance navigation but also add a dynamic element to your shots. Whether you’re capturing a property from various angles or creating a captivating aerial tour, GPS-enabled drones are indispensable for achieving professional results.
5. Portability and Ease of Use:
Real estate photographers are often on the move, so a drone’s portability is a key consideration. Opt for a compact and foldable design that is easy to transport. A quick and straightforward setup is essential for efficiency on location.
Look for drones with user-friendly features, intuitive controls, and automated flight modes to simplify the learning curve for beginners and streamline the entire photography process. A drone that is easy to handle and operate allows you to focus on capturing breathtaking shots without unnecessary complications.
6. Price of the Drone
As I searched for “the best drone for real estate photography,” I wanted to make sure it gives you the best value for your money. Check how much it costs compared to what it can do. In my search, I focused on drones that are not too expensive but still work really well, making sure you get the most for what you spend.
Which are the Best Drones for Real Estate Photography in 2023?
I’ll go into my picks for the top 5 best drones for Real Estate photography right now. Each review will include the product’s specifications, pros and cons, and specifications. This section aims to facilitate your choice of the drones that best meet your requirements and financial constraints.
DJI Mavic 3 Classic
The DJI Mavic 3 Classic stands out as the best drone for real estate photography, boasting a 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad camera, 5.1K HD video, and an impressive 46-minute flight time. Designed for professionals, its 15km transmission range and omnidirectional obstacle sensing cater to expansive coverage needs.
The smart return-to-home feature adds a layer of convenience and safety. This drone excels in delivering high-quality visuals and is ideal for those who demand top-notch camera and video capabilities. Its extended flight time is a boon for covering vast areas, making it a reliable choice for real estate professionals.
The inclusion of obstacle sensing enhances safety, and the intuitive return-to-home feature underscores its user-friendly design.
In summary, the DJI Mavic 3 Classic emerges as the go-to drone for professionals seeking unparalleled camera performance and extensive coverage capabilities in real estate photography.
Specifications
- Photo Resolution: 5280×3956 with 20 MP
- Video Resolution: 5.1K: 5120×2700 @ 50 fps
- Max Takeoff Altitude: 4000 m
- Weight: 895 g
- Video Transmission System: DJI O3+, Up to 15 km
- Wind Resistance: 12 m/s (Level 5)
- Obstacle Avoidance: All directions
- Max Flight Time: 46 minutes
- Max Hovering Time: 40 minutes
- Max Flight Distance: 15 km
- Battery Capacity: 5000 mAh
- Battery Charging Time: 1 hour
- File Storage: micro SD card 512GB max
Pros
- Hasselblad camera shoots amazing 5.1K HD videos and high-quality aerial photos.
- 46-minute flight time and 15km range for longer exploration and creativity.
- Ideal drone for both beginners and professionals.
Cons
- Little bit Expensive.
- Need to register with FAA.
DJI Mini 4 Pro
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is a game-changer for real estate photography. Weighing under 249g, it’s hassle-free with no registration needed, making it perfect for spontaneous shoots. The 4K/60fps HDR camera delivers breathtaking vertical videos, capturing the sunrise, sunset, and night scenes with impressive clarity—no post-cutting required.
Safety is paramount with omnidirectional obstacle sensing, ensuring worry-free flights for even first-time users. Extended battery life allows for uninterrupted exploration of vast landscapes, eliminating battery anxiety. The 20 km FHD video transmission provides lag-free, real-time aerial views, enhancing the overall experience.
The customizable ActiveTrack 360° simplifies intelligent tracking, making smooth video capture effortless, even for beginners. With extras like three 34-minute flight time batteries and a charging hub, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is a comprehensive, user-friendly package for real estate professionals seeking versatility and reliability.
Specifications
- Photo Resolution: 1/1.3-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 48 MP
- Video Resolution: 4K: 3840×2160@24/25/30/48/50/60/100*fps
- Max Takeoff Altitude: 4000 m
- Weight: 595 grams
- Wind Resistance: 10.7 m/s (Level 5)
- Sensing Type: Omnidirectional obstacle avoidance
- Max Flight Time: 34 minutes
- Max Hovering Time: 30 minutes
- Max Flight Distance: 18 km
- Battery Capacity: 2590 mAh
- Battery Charging Time: 58 minutes
- File Storage: micro SD card up to 512GB
Pros
- Weighs under 249g, no FAA registration is required.
- 4K/60fps HDR camera with 48 MP sensor for detailed photos and videos.
- Omnidirectional obstacle sensing and wind resistance (10.7 m/s).
- Extended flight time of 34 minutes per battery.
- Real-time Transmission 20 km FHD video transmission for lag-free aerial views.
Cons
- The extended battery option puts it above the FAA registration weight limit.
DJI Mavic Air 2S
The DJI Air 2S stands out as the best drone for photography and videography, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features. Boasting a 1-inch CMOS sensor and 5.4K video capabilities, it delivers stunningly crisp images and videos that capture every detail of a property.
The 3-axis gimbal ensures stable shots, while 4 directions of obstacle sensing enhance safety during flights, crucial when navigating tight spaces around buildings.
With an impressive 31-minute flight time and a 12km 1080p video transmission range, this drone allows for extended shooting sessions and clear live feeds.
The MasterShots feature intelligently selects optimal shooting paths, making it an ideal choice for real estate professionals seeking efficiency.
The DJI Air 2S excels in providing the best real estate photography drone experience, making it a must-have for those who demand uncompromising quality and reliability.
Specifications
- Photo Resolution: 5472×3078 (16:9) with 20 MP
- Video Resolution: 5.4K: 5472×3078 @30 fps
- Max Takeoff Altitude: 5000 m
- Weight: 595 grams
- Wind Resistance: 10.7 m/s (Level 5)
- Sensing Type: Four directions
- Max Flight Time: 30 minutes
- Max Hovering Time: 31 minutes
- Max Flight Distance: 12 km
- Battery Capacity: 3500 mAh
- Battery Charging Time: 1 hour
- File Storage: micro SD card up to 512GB
Pros
- Takes really clear photos and videos with lots of detail.
- Stays in the air for 31 minutes and can send video signals up to 12 kilometers away.
- User-friendly controls.
Cons
- Drone propellers make noise.
- Need to register with FAA.
Parrot ANAFI
The Parrot PF728000 ANAFI Drone could be the best drone for real estate photography. Its 4K HDR camera delivers stunning image quality, and the 180° vertical swivel allows for creative and comprehensive shots.
The drone’s foldable design enhances portability, making it convenient for on-the-go real estate professionals. The compact and silent operation ensures minimal disruption during shoots.
Autonomous features add a layer of simplicity, allowing users to focus on capturing the perfect shots. The dark grey color adds a sleek touch.
Overall, the Parrot ANAFI is a top choice for real estate photographers seeking a versatile, high-performance drone that effortlessly adapts to the demands of the job.
Specifications
- Weight: 320g
- Max Takeoff Altitude: 4000 m
- Max Flight Time: 25 min
- Max Flight Distance: 4km with controller
- Max Wind Speed Resistance: 50km/h
- Photo Resolution: 21MP (5344×4016)
- Video Resolution: 4K Cinema 4096×2160 24 frames per second
- Battery Capacity: 2700mAh
- Battery Charging Time: 1 hour
Pros
- Capture clear photos in the dark with a strong night vision camera, perfect for real estate.
- Records top-notch 4K videos, snaps 21MP photos and offers HDR and 2.8x digital zoom.
- Weighing only 320g and folding easily, it flies discreetly, making it the ideal drone for diverse real estate perspectives.
Cons
- Less flight time compared to other drones in the list but 25 minutes is decent flight time.
DJI Phantom 4 Pro Plus
The DJI Phantom 4 Pro Plus V2.0 stands out as the best drone for photography and videography, boasting an impressive 20MP camera with a 1″ CMOS sensor and 4K H.265 video capabilities. Its 3-axis gimbal ensures stable shots, crucial for capturing detailed property features.
With a rapid 72 kph maximum flight speed and an 8km transmission range utilizing OcuSync 2.0, this drone excels in covering expansive real estate landscapes. The integrated 5.5″ screen on the remote controller enhances usability.
Intelligent Flight Modes like TapFly and ActiveTrack facilitate smooth and creative aerial maneuvers, while features such as Draw mode add a layer of user-friendly control, allowing photographers to easily plot precise flight paths.
For unparalleled performance and versatility, the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 is the top choice for real estate professionals.
Specifications
- Photo Resolution: 20 megapixels
- Video Resolution: H.264 4K @ 60fps or H.265 4K @30fps
- Max Takeoff Altitude: 6000 m
- Weight: 1375 g
- Wind Resistance: 10.7 m/s (Level 5)
- Sensing Type: Five directions
- Max Flight Time: 30 minutes
- Max Hovering Time: 31 minutes
- Max Flight Distance: 18 km
- Battery Capacity: 5870 mAh
- Battery Charging Time: 1 hour
- File Storage: micro SD card up to 512GB
Pros
- High-quality 20MP camera with 4K video for detailed real estate shots.
- The 3-axis gimbal ensures smooth and stable footage, capturing property details effectively.
- Fast speed (72 kph), long-range (8km), and intelligent flight modes for versatile real estate coverage.
Cons
- A higher price tag may be a barrier for budget-conscious real estate photographers.
- Heavier weight (1375g) may impact portability and maneuverability, especially in tight spaces.
Final Thoughts on the Best Drone for Real Estate Photography
As a real estate photography enthusiast, my final verdict on the best drones for real estate in 2023 is crystal clear. For those seeking top-notch performance, the DJI Mavic 3 Classic stands out with a 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera best for capturing images and videos and up to 5.1K recording capability and 4K at 60 frames per second., delivering stunning aerial shots for showcasing properties.
If you’re on a budget, fear not – the DJI Mini 4 Pro is a wallet-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. This drone is capable of capturing amazing photos and videos with its high-definition cameras. It’s perfect for beginners or those looking to dip their toes into the world of real estate photography without breaking the bank.
And for those who prefer non-DJI options, look no further than the Parrot ANAFI – a reliable and versatile drone that captures impressive visuals. This drone has all the necessary features required for real estate photography.
FAQs
Can I use a drone to shoot property photos?
Yes, using a drone for property photos is common and efficient. Drones equipped with cameras capture aerial shots, providing a comprehensive view of the property and its surroundings.
This allows for showcasing features like landscaping and property size. Drone photography can enhance property marketing, giving potential buyers or renters a more detailed perspective. However, it’s crucial to comply with local regulations and obtain necessary permits for drone use, ensuring legal and safe operation.
What kind of footage can I capture with a drone?
Drones are like flying cameras you can use for different things, especially in selling houses or land. If you want to sell a house, a drone can take cool pictures from above to show how big it is and what it looks like. It can also get close-ups of special parts like the pool.
Inside the house, the drone can show the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms in a unique way. If you’re selling land, the drone can take pictures from different angles to help people see it better. Drones are great for making pictures that help sell homes and land.
Do I need a drone license for real estate?
Yes, in the United States, if you use a drone for commercial purposes, including real estate photography or videography, you need a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate issued by the FAA.
This license involves passing a knowledge test, undergoing a background check, and complying with FAA regulations. Failure to obtain the necessary license may result in legal consequences and fines.
Is real estate drone photography worth it?
Yes, real estate drone photography is worth it for several reasons. Drones provide unique aerial perspectives, showcasing property size and surroundings. Listings with drone images receive 68% more views than those without. High-quality aerial shots can emphasize property features, attract potential buyers, and set listings apart.
Additionally, drones enable cost-effective and efficient property inspections. Overall, the investment in real estate drone photography often yields increased engagement and quicker property sales.
What’s the best size drone for real estate?
For real estate applications, a drone with a compact size, such as those with a wingspan of around 12 to 16 inches, is ideal. This size strikes a balance between stability and maneuverability, allowing for detailed aerial shots while navigating tight spaces.
Additionally, smaller drones are generally more affordable, easier to transport, and have sufficient camera capabilities for capturing high-quality images and videos of properties.