Showerthought: All the hype for compact drones on trips missed the mark for me

I took a small drone on a hike in Colorado last summer, thinking it would capture great shots like the reviews said. But it was a hassle to set up and the battery died fast in the cold. I got way better photos with my phone and just enjoying the view. Now I tell friends to think twice before adding another gadget to their pack.

3 comments

3 Comments

masona621mo ago

Portland food carts taught me tech that solves a problem often makes a new one, like apps for lines that just make you stare at your phone. That drone hassle feels the same, trading simple enjoyment for battery anxiety and setup steps. We keep buying tools meant to help us, only to miss the point of the experience itself.

iris_green841mo ago

Okay, but let's not write off all drones just because of one cold hike. Batteries always suck in the cold, that's just physics being a jerk. With a little prep, like pre-warming the battery in your pocket, you can squeeze out more flight time. I've gotten some awesome wide shots that my phone would need a ladder for. Still, if you're not into tinkering with tech on a trail, it's totally fair to skip the extra weight. Sometimes the best camera is the one you'll actually use without cursing.

nelson.finley1mo ago

My DJI Mini 2 battery went from full to 20% in about five minutes last January in Vermont, so I feel that pain. You're totally right, @iris_green84, keeping the battery warm before you fly is the only way to make it work in the cold. I still bring mine for specific wide valley shots, but most days I just use my phone now to keep it simple.