Mini Test: remote-control camera drones

Drones are no longer a novelty for geeks: there’s a flying camera out there for you

The best camera drones money can buy

THE BEST camera drones are far more than the simple toys they used to be. They’re now used widely by both amateur and professional photographers because they can reach areas and shoot from angles that regular cameras can’t. They allow aerial photography and videography of landscapes, buildings and events that previously required the use of a helicopter, a small plane or a crane.

Drones have evolved greatly since the first readyto-fly model went on sale ten years ago – and a decade on drones are now everywhere.

Every drone on test has a camera supported by a powered gimbal, which counteracts the vibration from the propellers.

Of course, it’s worth accepting that drone rules and regulations have become part of the drone operator’s life, especially commercial users for whom insurance is likely a legal requirement. In USA, UK, Europe and China any aircraft over 250g (8.8oz) is subject to a compulsory registration scheme (and in the UK the rules will apply to any flying camera, whatever the weight, after June 2020). Let’s dig in to these out of this world aerial contenders…