Beginner's Guide for DJI Mini 3

Introduction

• Welcome to the complete beginner's guide for DJI Mini 3.
• Aim: Help you get up and flying with the drone quickly.
• Covered Topics:
  • Overview of the drone
  • Controller options
  • DJI Fly app
  • First flight tips
  • Flying the drone
  • Quick shots
  • Photo modes

Overview of the Drone

• Drone comes folded with bottom legs folding forward and top arms folding back.
• Camera guard should be removed before flying; it protects the camera and gimbal.
• Battery placement: slides into the back until it clicks.
• Powering the drone: press once and hold until lights turn on.
• No obstacle avoidance sensors, only ground sensors for takeoff and landing.
• USBC port and Micro SD card slot at the back.
• Battery removal: use side tabs to press and pull out.
• Propellers: Two types based on markings; ensure correct replacements.
• Camera lens: Can be replaced with accessories like ND filters.

Controller Options

1. Standard RC (With Phone Slot)
   • Phone connects via cable (lightning/Android) and fits into grooves.
   • Thumb sticks are stored at the bottom and screw into the front.
   • Buttons:
     • FN button: customizable function.
     • Camera switch button: toggles photo/video mode.
     • Return to home and pause button.
     • Power button.
     • Modes: Cine, Normal, Sport (slow, medium, fast).
     • Jog wheel (left): controls gimbal.
     • Record/Photo button.
     • Charging port (USBC).
2. DJI RC (With Screen)
   • Built-in screen, lightweight, comprehensive system.
   • Similar button layout to Standard RC.
   • Extra buttons: Record (left), Photo (right), extra jog wheel for zoom.
   • Customizable buttons (C1, C2).
   • Ports: Charging (USBC), Micro SD slot, host (for DJI cellular module).

DJI Fly App Walkthrough

• In-depth explanation of all buttons and functionalities.
• Main screen: positioning, updates, tutorials, album, SkyPixel, profile.
• Flight screen: mode, battery level, RC strength, satellite connection.
• Advanced menu: Safety, Control, Camera, Transmission, About.
• Safety settings: Return to home altitude, Max altitude, distance, compass calibration, battery info.
• Control settings: Units, Gain & Expo tuning, Gimbal mode.
• Camera settings: Auto/Pro mode, EV, resolution, storage.

First Flight Tips

• Find an open space with no obstacles.
• Ensure full charge on both the drone and controller.
• Powering on: press and hold for both drone and controller.
• Two ways to take off:
  1. Use the takeoff button on the app.
  2. Manual takeoff using joystick.
• Landing: Use the app or manual joystick control.

Flying the Drone

• Left joystick: controls height (up/down) and rotation (left/right).
• Right joystick: moves drone in directions (forward/backward, left/right).
• Combination movements possible with joysticks.
• Gimbal control: left jog wheel (up/down) and second jog wheel for zoom (DJI RC).

Quick Shots

• Modes: Droney, Rocket, Circle, Helix, Boomerang.
• Quick shots automate camera movements for dynamic shots.
• Limited tracking capability during quick shots.

Photo Modes

• Single Photo: Takes one photo.
• AEB (Auto Exposure Bracketing): Takes multiple exposures for better editing.
• Time Shot: Interval shooting, customizable time gaps.
• Panoramic: Sphere, 180, Wide-Angle.

Tips for Using the Drone

• Have a purpose for your shots (e.g., setting the scene, creating sequences).
• Utilize unique drone perspectives (e.g., top-down shots).
• Follow local regulations and laws (e.g., no flying in National Parks).
• Editing: Learn basic editing and color grading for better results.

Conclusion

• Further Learning: Cinematography, shot ideas, and color grading tutorials.
• Subscribe for more technical and storytelling guidance.

Next Steps: Watch the drone filmmaking beginner's guide for more tips on achieving better shots and cinematography.