The DJI Flip is a versatile drone often perceived as a model for autonomous flying and short-distance vlogging. I recently showed how, for specific users, it can be an affordable alternative to the Mini 4 Pro for videography
In this article, I will show how it compares to the Mini 4 Pro for photography using a remote controller
Other related articles you may find interesting:
- Flip vs Mini 4 Pro footage quality
- Photo editing with Luminar Neo
- DJI Flip Photography
- Mini 4 Pro photography
Specs
| Sensor size | 1/1.3″ |
| Field of view | 24 mm |
| Aperture | f 1.7 |
| Photo resolution | 12 MP |
The DJI Flip has a 1/1.3” sensor with a field of view equivalent to 24mm and a wide aperture of f1.7. The actual photo resolution is 12MP, but a 48 MP mode is also available
The sensor specs are identical to the Mini 4 Pro, but the camera is only a part of the equation, as the processing platform plays an important part in the quality of the still images. DJI constantly tweaks the processing algorithm over time
For example, even though the camera of the Mini 3 is identical to the Mini 4 Pro, photos taken with the more expensive model have more detail and richer colors, a noticeable improvement in image quality
The other photography features are the same in the two models. The higher ISO value is 6400 for 12 MP photos and 3200 for 48. Both offer a Shutter Speed of up to 8” for simulated long exposure with 12 MP photos
Scrolling down the photo menu above the shutter, we access the other photo modes:
- AEB with a choice of three, five, or seven shots
- Burst
- Timed Shots
This last function is very handy with the Flip on two occasions:
- We can activate it, put away the controller, and pose for memorable selfies
- Due to its unusual shape, the Flip fits very well in the hands and can be used like a ground-based camera in urban situations. If we activate timed shots, we automate the shooting and can put away the controller
The Panorama mode has the same four modes:
- Sphere
- 180 degrees
- Wide Angle
- Vertical
Hyperlapse mode has Free, Circle, Course Lock, and Waypoint. The only difference is that the automated short movie made by the Flip has a resolution of 1080p vs 4k for the more expensive model
According to the DJI website, both models feature Dual Native ISO Fusion for extra dynamic range
Image Quality
I will start with images taken in the middle of a sunny day, very challenging conditions
I suggest avoiding these situations whenever possible, as the shadows are very harsh and the dynamic range too strong. Still, sometimes we don’t have a choice, so it is interesting to check how the two models behave
With both models, the image quality is excellent, considering the conditions. There are differences in the color rendition and the detail, but it is not easy to tell which one I prefer; it is a matter of personal choice
Much better results are obtained closer to sunset or sunrise or with the sun behind clouds, as the shadows are much softer. The results are excellent, however, there are again noticeable differences between the two models
The lenses of both models have a wide Aperture of f1.7, capable of gathering plenty of light. In low light, the Flip and the Mini 4 Pro deliver sensational results
The 48 MP mode was introduced in DJI prosumer drones a few years ago. In the first iterations, the results were disappointing, but this mode has improved constantly in recent years
With both models, the 48 MP images are often better than the 12 MP ones, especially for large prints or deep cropping. The only downside is that the files are very demanding in terms of computer resources
To process the RAW files I have used Luminar Neo, my favorite photo editing tool
Functionalities
Some functionalities are missing in the Flip to justify the price difference, but most are only relevant to filming
The Flip doesn’t have omnidirectional obstacle detection, an important safety feature. Only a forward infrared sensor is present to detect obstacles in front of the aircraft. When taking photos, obstacle avoidance is not crucial as the aircraft hovers during the shooting. However, some care is needed when approaching the target
Both models have the same announced wind resistance of 10.7 m/s. However, when flying the Flip at a high altitude in medium wind conditions, I noticed occasional drifting. This can cause artifacts in footage, but it is not an issue with still images
The maximum horizontal speed is slower with the Flip. This is a limitation when tracking fast-moving targets but not a main issue with photos
The flight time is about 10% shorter. This is only annoying when shooting hyperlapses, as we end up with a shorter movie
The only important missing feature is Waypoint mode, which is only used for filming
For photo shooting, the Flip has only one downside compared to the Mini 4 Pro: the noise level is higher, with an unpleasant pitch. It can attract attention from people nearby
On a plus note, it is easier to spot the Flip and keep it in visual line of flight due to the bulky propeller guards
The propeller guards make the Flip the ideal tool for photo shootings indoors or in confined spaces surrounded by obstacles at a low altitude. It is also safer in case of collisions with people
For users on a budget interested mainly in photography, the Flip is an attractive, affordable alternative to the Mini 4 Pro