What To Know
- The “Follow Me” feature is your secret weapon, allowing your drone to track your every move and create cinematic shots that’ll leave your viewers in awe.
- This guide will walk you through the steps to master this powerful feature and unlock a whole new level of creative freedom with your Phantom 3.
- The “Follow Me” mode is a feature that uses GPS signals to allow your Phantom 3 to follow your movements automatically.
Want to capture breathtaking aerial footage of yourself in action, but tired of manually controlling your DJI Phantom 3? The “Follow Me” feature is your secret weapon, allowing your drone to track your every move and create cinematic shots that’ll leave your viewers in awe. This guide will walk you through the steps to master this powerful feature and unlock a whole new level of creative freedom with your Phantom 3.
Getting Started: Setting the Stage
Before you can unleash your drone’s tracking abilities, you need to ensure everything is set up correctly. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Charge your Phantom 3 and remote controller: Ensure both have enough juice for your filming session.
- Download the DJI Go app: This is your command center for controlling your drone and enabling the “Follow Me” feature.
- Update your firmware: Keep your Phantom 3 and app up-to-date for optimal performance and access to the latest features.
- Choose a safe and open space: Avoid flying in crowded areas, near airports, or restricted airspace.
- Calibrate your compass: This is crucial for accurate positioning and smooth tracking.
Understanding the “Follow Me” Mode
The “Follow Me” mode is a feature that uses GPS signals to allow your Phantom 3 to follow your movements automatically. It’s like having a personal cameraman in the sky, capturing your every step, run, or jump. There are two key components to this mode:
- Subject Detection: The drone utilizes its sensors to identify and track your position. This is achieved through a combination of GPS and visual recognition.
- Autonomous Flight: Once your drone recognizes you, it will automatically adjust its flight path to stay a set distance behind you.
Enabling “Follow Me” on Your DJI Phantom 3
Now, let’s get your Phantom 3 ready to track you:
1. Launch the DJI Go app: Connect your Phantom 3 to your smartphone or tablet using the app.
2. Select “Follow Me” mode: Navigate to the “Intelligent Flight Modes” section within the app and choose “Follow Me.”
3. Choose your flight parameters: Set the desired altitude, tracking distance, and other settings according to your needs.
4. Initiate the tracking: Tap the “Follow Me” icon on the app to start the tracking process.
Mastering the “Follow Me” Technique
The key to successful “Follow Me” shots lies in understanding a few crucial points:
- Open Space is Key: Ensure you have enough open space for the drone to maneuver around you safely. Avoid obstacles and tight spaces.
- Smooth Movements: The more smoothly you move, the better the drone will track you. Avoid abrupt turns or sudden stops.
- Keep the Subject in View: The drone relies on visual recognition to track you, so make sure it can see you clearly.
- Adjust Settings: Experiment with different settings like altitude and distance to find the perfect shot for your needs.
- Use the App’s Tools: The DJI Go app provides real-time feedback on your drone’s position and allows you to adjust settings on the fly.
Tips for Epic “Follow Me” Shots
Now that you’re familiar with the basics, let’s explore some tips to elevate your “Follow Me” footage:
- Vary Your Movement: Don’t just walk in a straight line. Try running, jumping, or even performing a simple dance routine. This adds dynamism to your shots.
- Utilize the Environment: Use the surrounding landscape to your advantage. Run through a forest, along a beach, or over a field to create visually stunning shots.
- Play with Perspective: Experiment with different angles and distances. Try tracking yourself from above, below, or even directly behind you.
- Combine with Other Features: Combine “Follow Me” with other features like “ActiveTrack” or “Waypoint” to create even more complex and creative shots.
- Practice Makes Perfect: The more you use “Follow Me,” the better you’ll understand its capabilities and limitations.
Beyond “Follow Me”: Expanding Your Aerial Cinematography
While “Follow Me” is a powerful tool, it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to aerial cinematography. Explore other features like:
- ActiveTrack: This feature allows your drone to track moving subjects, even if they’re not you.
- Waypoint: Create a flight path for your drone to follow automatically, allowing you to capture complex aerial shots.
- Point of Interest (POI): Set a point of interest and your drone will circle it while capturing a 360-degree view.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Future of Aerial Photography
Mastering the “Follow Me” feature on your DJI Phantom 3 opens up a world of creative possibilities. It allows you to capture stunning aerial footage of yourself in action, transforming yourself into the star of your own cinematic masterpiece. Remember to practice, experiment, and most importantly, have fun exploring the boundless potential of your drone!
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I use “Follow Me” with a person other than myself?
A: While the “Follow Me” feature is primarily designed for tracking the pilot, you can technically use it to track other subjects. However, the drone may have difficulty recognizing a different person, so it’s best to stick to tracking yourself for reliable results.
Q: How far can my Phantom 3 track me?
A: The maximum tracking distance depends on your Phantom 3 model and the surrounding environment. Generally, you can expect a tracking range of up to 100 meters. However, factors like signal strength and obstacles can affect the actual range.
Q: Is “Follow Me” suitable for all types of filming?
A: While “Follow Me” is ideal for capturing dynamic shots of yourself, it may not be suitable for every scenario. For stationary shots or capturing specific angles, you might need to use other features or manually control your drone.
Q: What are the safety considerations when using “Follow Me”?
A: Always prioritize safety when using any drone feature. Ensure you’re flying in a safe and open space, adhering to all regulations and guidelines. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid flying near obstacles or people.
Q: Can I use “Follow Me” at night?
A: The “Follow Me” feature relies on visual recognition, so it’s not recommended for nighttime use. However, some newer Phantom models offer night-time flight capabilities with additional sensors. Always check your drone’s specifications before attempting night flights.
