Are Small Personal Drones Always Filming While They Fly?

Are small personal drones always filming while they are in flight? This article delves into the functions of modern drones to provide a comprehensive answer.

FPV FlyCam: A Multirotor Perspective

If your drone is equipped with FPV (First Person View) technology, it will likely transmit video back to the pilot in real-time. However, recording is not always a default feature. This article aims to clarify the truth about drones recording during flight.

Personal Drone Recording Practices

Personal drone owners often record less than half the time. They only film when commanded, and sometimes, they can save the last 10 minutes of video if a button is pushed. Otherwise, the drone does not save anything. In some cases, filming is unnecessary, and a long-stick camera could provide the same effect for stalking purposes.

Engaging in drone flying involves more than just recording. Many enthusiasts engage in drone racing and acrobatic flying, which require the pilot to focus solely on the control and the live feed in their goggles. It is akin to a manual transmission car where letting go of control means disaster. The equipment is optimized for speed and connection, making the video quality variable and often poor.

FMV vs. Fixed Position Cameras

Depending on the "drone" (multirotor) type, some film types, such as the DJI drones widely available, typically film in wide-angle mode—recording only when in active use. For example, the DJI Inspire series includes several different cameras, lenses, and filters, making constant filming not the primary function. Thus, unless the drone is actively recording, it is not necessarily capturing everything in the sky.

Worries About Spying

Many people worry about privacy issues with drones. However, the truth is that even a high-altitude drone with a wide-angle camera, like a GoPro, cannot capture detailed images at ground level. The quality of a drone's footage, especially from 4K GoPro videos, is usually poor at a distance. The following image demonstrates the type of detail that can be captured from a high-altitude drone camera.

Image description: A screenshot of a 4K GoPro video taken from a drone showing good detail of a landscape but very small and indistinct people at ground level.

Although not all drones are recording, many do so to improve their images and capture better angles for maps. Recording all the time can help address questions, and in the event of any issues, having footage as evidence can be crucial.

Liability and Compliance

Many drone enthusiasts are diligent in following rules and regulations, such as those set by the FAA and AMA. Recording is a good practice as it provides evidence of no wrongdoing and protection against matters of legal liability. It is essential for drone operators to be aware of the guidelines and consider the liability implications of their actions.

Conclusion

While some personal drones do record while flying, the practice is not universal. Drones are primarily designed for flying and racing, with recording being a secondary feature. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of your drone is crucial for both safety and privacy concerns. As a responsible drone operator, it is important to record your flights and follow the guidelines set forth by regulatory agencies.