The Follow Me feature on drones has revolutionized aerial photography and videography. But how does it work, and how can you use it effectively with Autel Robotics drones? This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of Autel’s Follow Me functionality, covering everything from the underlying technology to practical tips for capturing stunning footage.
Follow Me Technology: GPS and Visual Tracking
Autel drones utilize a combination of GPS tracking and sophisticated visual recognition algorithms to achieve seamless Follow Me functionality. GPS ensures accurate positioning and allows the drone to maintain a consistent distance from the subject. Simultaneously, visual tracking, often referred to as ActiveTrack in Autel’s ecosystem, locks onto the subject and intelligently adjusts the drone’s flight path to maintain a clear shot, even as the subject moves and changes direction. This combination enables smooth, cinematic footage without constant manual adjustments.
Autel Drones with Follow Me: EVO Series
Several Autel drone models boast the Follow Me feature, primarily within the EVO series. The EVO Lite+, for instance, offers robust person tracking capabilities. While the EVO Nano series doesn’t currently include Follow Me, it remains a powerful and compact option for aerial photography, renowned as one of the best 4k mini camera drones under $1000. Always check the specifications of your specific Autel drone model to confirm Follow Me availability. You can find detailed information on the Autel EVO Nano series here: https://www.autelpilot.com/collections/autel-robotics-evo-nano-series and the EVO Lite+ here: https://www.autelpilot.com/products/autel-robotics-evo-lite-plus-drone.
Essential Features for a Follow Me Drone
Several key features contribute to a successful Follow Me experience:
Precise GPS: A reliable GPS system is paramount for accurate positioning and stable tracking. It enables the drone to maintain a safe distance and accurately follow the subject’s movements.
Obstacle Avoidance: Robust obstacle avoidance is crucial, especially in dynamic environments. Sensors on the front, sides, and bottom (and sometimes even the top) of the drone detect and navigate around obstacles, ensuring safe flight.
Extended Range: A sufficient range ensures the drone can maintain a connection with the controller while tracking the subject over longer distances.
High-Quality Camera: A high-resolution camera with image stabilization (ideally a 3-axis gimbal) is essential for capturing smooth, professional-looking footage.
Flight Time: A longer flight time allows for extended tracking sessions without frequent battery changes. Consider spare batteries for longer adventures.
Speed and Agility: The drone’s top speed should be adequate to keep up with faster-moving subjects, particularly for activities like mountain biking or other action sports.
Follow Me vs. Dynamic Track
While both features enable autonomous tracking, Dynamic Track represents a more advanced iteration. Autel’s Dynamic Track leverages GPS, visual recognition, and multiple sensors to intelligently track and follow subjects even in complex scenarios, allowing for greater flexibility and precision. Learn more about the best follow me drones for mountain biking here: https://www.autelpilot.com/blogs/news/top-5-drones-for-mountain-biking-in-2022.
Conclusion
Autel Robotics provides powerful Follow Me capabilities in its EVO series drones, empowering users to capture breathtaking footage with ease. By understanding the underlying technologies and considering the key features outlined above, you can harness the full potential of Follow Me mode and elevate your aerial photography to new heights. Remember to always consult your drone’s user manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines.
