What To Know
- This innovative mode allows your drone to automatically follow your movements, freeing you to focus on the action and capturing breathtaking shots from a unique perspective.
- This mode allows the drone to automatically track a specific subject, whether it’s a person, animal, or object.
- This mode allows you to create a series of waypoints for the drone to follow.
The DJI Mavic Pro is a revolutionary drone that has captured the hearts of filmmakers and photographers alike. Its compact size, impressive flight performance, and powerful camera make it a versatile tool for capturing stunning aerial footage. But did you know that the Mavic Pro also boasts a fantastic feature called “Follow Mode“? This innovative mode allows your drone to automatically follow your movements, freeing you to focus on the action and capturing breathtaking shots from a unique perspective.
If you’re wondering how to put your DJI Mavic Pro in Follow Mode, you’ve come to the right place. This detailed guide will walk you through the process, explaining the different Follow Mode options and providing tips for getting the most out of this game-changing feature.
Understanding Follow Mode: The Magic Behind the Movement
Follow Mode is a powerful tool that transforms your drone into a dedicated cameraman, effortlessly tracking your every move. It’s a game-changer for capturing dynamic and engaging footage, especially when you’re on the move.
Imagine yourself hiking through a scenic trail, kayaking on a tranquil lake, or even running a marathon. With Follow Mode activated, your Mavic Pro will stay right by your side, capturing your journey from a bird’s eye view.
But the magic of Follow Mode goes beyond simple tracking. It offers a range of customizable options, allowing you to adjust the drone’s behavior to suit your specific needs. You can control factors like:
- Distance: Define how close or far the drone stays from you.
- Height: Set the altitude at which the drone follows you.
- Speed: Adjust the drone’s speed to match your pace.
- Orbit: Make the drone circle around you, creating captivating circular shots.
Getting Started: Setting Up for Follow Mode Success
Before you unleash the power of Follow Mode, it’s essential to set the stage for a smooth and successful experience. Follow these simple steps to ensure a seamless transition into the world of autonomous drone tracking:
1. Charge your batteries: Ensure both your drone and your remote controller batteries are fully charged. Follow Mode can be demanding on battery life, so having a full charge is crucial.
2. Calibrate your compass: A properly calibrated compass is essential for accurate drone navigation. To calibrate, simply follow the instructions in the DJI GO 4 app.
3. Select an open area: Begin your Follow Mode journey in a wide-open space with minimal obstacles. This will allow the drone to move freely and avoid any potential collisions.
4. Choose a safe and legal location: Always fly your drone responsibly and within legal boundaries. Check local regulations and ensure you’re in a safe and permitted area.
5. Familiarize yourself with the DJI GO 4 app: The DJI GO 4 app is your command center for controlling your Mavic Pro, including Follow Mode. Spend some time exploring the app’s interface and understanding the different settings.
Activating Follow Mode: Your First Steps into Automated Tracking
With your drone ready and the stage set, it’s time to dive into the exciting world of Follow Mode. Here’s how to activate this powerful feature:
1. Launch the DJI GO 4 app: Open the app on your smartphone or tablet and connect to your Mavic Pro.
2. Select “Follow Mode“: Navigate to the “Intelligent Flight Modes” section in the app. You’ll find a list of available modes, including “Follow Mode.”
3. Choose your desired Follow Mode option: There are several Follow Mode options to choose from, each with its unique characteristics:
- ActiveTrack: This mode allows the drone to automatically track a specific subject, whether it’s a person, animal, or object. You can select the subject by tapping on it on the screen.
- Point of Interest (POI): This mode allows the drone to circle around a pre-selected point of interest. You can choose the radius of the circle and the drone’s speed.
- Waypoint: This mode allows you to create a series of waypoints for the drone to follow. This is ideal for creating complex flight paths and capturing unique perspectives.
4. Adjust settings as needed: Once you’ve selected a Follow Mode option, you can adjust the settings to fine-tune the drone’s behavior. This includes parameters like distance, height, speed, and orbit.
5. Take off and enjoy: With your Follow Mode settings adjusted, it’s time to take off and let your drone do its magic. Start moving, and watch as your Mavic Pro seamlessly follows your every step.
Mastering Follow Mode: Tips for Cinematic Success
Now that you’ve activated Follow Mode, it’s time to take your drone footage to the next level. Here are some expert tips to help you master this powerful feature and create captivating cinematic sequences:
- Start slowly: When first using Follow Mode, begin with a slow and steady pace. This will give the drone time to adjust to your movements and ensure a smooth tracking experience.
- Experiment with different settings: Don’t be afraid to play around with the various Follow Mode settings. Experiment with different distances, heights, and speeds to discover what works best for your shots.
- Use the “Orbit” feature creatively: The “Orbit” feature is a great way to add dynamic and engaging shots to your footage. Experiment with different orbit radii and speeds to create unique and captivating visuals.
- Pay attention to your surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings when using Follow Mode. Ensure the drone has enough space to maneuver and avoid obstacles.
- Practice makes perfect: Like any skill, mastering Follow Mode takes practice. Spend time experimenting and refining your technique to create truly stunning footage.
Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your Follow Mode Capabilities
Follow Mode is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of creative ways. Here are some advanced techniques to explore:
- Combining Follow Mode with other intelligent flight modes: You can combine Follow Mode with other intelligent flight modes, such as “TapFly” and “Trajectory,” to create even more dynamic and complex shots.
- Using Follow Mode for time-lapses: Follow Mode can be used to create time-lapses that follow a moving subject, such as a person walking or a car driving.
- Exploring different camera angles: Experiment with different camera angles while in Follow Mode. Try shooting from behind, above, or even below your subject to create unique perspectives.
Final Thoughts: Unlocking the Power of Follow Mode
Follow Mode is a game-changer for drone enthusiasts, filmmakers, and photographers. It allows you to capture stunning footage with ease, freeing you to focus on the action and creativity.
By understanding the basics, experimenting with settings, and embracing the possibilities, you can unlock the full potential of Follow Mode and create cinematic masterpieces that will amaze your audience.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is the maximum distance that the Mavic Pro can follow me in Follow Mode?
A: The maximum distance for Follow Mode varies depending on the chosen mode and environmental factors. However, in general, the Mavic Pro can follow you for a considerable distance, up to several hundred meters.
Q: Can I use Follow Mode in windy conditions?
A: Wind can affect the drone’s stability and tracking accuracy. It’s recommended to use Follow Mode in moderate wind conditions. For strong winds, it’s best to avoid using Follow Mode altogether.
Q: What happens if the drone loses track of me in Follow Mode?
A: If the drone loses track of you, it will typically return to its home point. However, it’s important to keep an eye on the drone’s position and be prepared to take manual control if necessary.
Q: Do I need a specific type of phone or tablet to use Follow Mode?
A: You’ll need a smartphone or tablet that supports the DJI GO 4 app. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Q: Is Follow Mode available on other DJI drones besides the Mavic Pro?
A: Yes, Follow Mode is available on a wide range of DJI drones, including the Mavic Air, Mavic 2, Phantom 4, and Inspire series. The specific features and settings may vary depending on the drone model.
