Drones with zoom are useful for capturing high-resolution images and footage. The ability to zoom in also opens up new possibilities for drone users like archaeologists and surveyors who need to identify objects or features at various distances.
The best zoom camera for drones should be capable of delivering both digital and optical zoom capabilities. Optical zoom is a more preferable option because it does not reduce image or video quality like digital zoom. Depending on the quality of the lens, it is possible for a drone with optical zoom to capture highly detailed images at a distance of up to 30x.
To achieve optical zoom, a drone must be equipped with a telephoto lens and a large image sensor. The larger the image sensor is, the higher the resolution and detail that can be captured. However, this technology is expensive to produce and therefore not found on consumer-level drones.
The digital zoom function is commonly found on most drones. It works by enlarging the photo or video frame, cutting off the edges of the image. This is similar to how photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Canva work. While the enlarged image is bigger, the quality and resolution are reduced.
Some drones combine optical and digital zoom to achieve the maximum magnification. This type of drone is referred to as a hybrid zoom drone. This type of drone uses two cameras – a main camera with a wide angle lens and a telephoto camera for zooming in.
Drones with optical zoom are a must for professional photographers and videographers. The ability to zoom in allows them to capture detailed images and footage at a far distance without losing image or video quality. Moreover, the increased focal length can be useful for creating cinematic shots and panoramas. It can also be useful for industrial applications such as inspection and surveying.
The newest drone to feature optical zoom is the DJI Mavic 3 Pro. This drone has a secondary camera with a telephoto lens for up to 28x zoom. Its combination of optical and digital zoom allows it to capture extremely detailed photos and videos at a far distance without sacrificing image or video quality. This drone is a great choice for professionals and serious amateurs who need a high-quality zoom drone with the latest technology. It is also easy to use and offers a variety of modes for different scenarios. For example, the DJI Mavic 3 Pro can be used to create a dolly zoom effect by using Cine mode. It can also be flown in Sport mode to capture fast-moving scenes. The drone can also be used to fly in selfie mode by using its dedicated button. Lastly, the drone can be commanded using its onboard app or remote controller. The app is free and is compatible with all major smart devices. The drone also has a battery life of up to 31 minutes and can fly for up to 9km.