FPV Drones for Content Creators: Formats, Drone Types and GoPro Settings (Part II)

In Part I we covered FPV simulators and equipment, plus a complete setup for a first drone. Here we go a step further into FPV for content creation: FPV on social media, different drones, and action cameras.

‍

FPV drones for social media

When you want extraordinary FPV videos, YouTube is the place to go. That’s where the real magic happens, where pioneers like Sam Kolder inspire a whole generation of creators. YouTube videos are mostly 16:9 or 2.35:1, so they reframe easily for other platforms.

Instagram has a format that’s perfect for FPV videos: Reels. They’re full-screen vertical clips up to 30 seconds. Paired with the right music, FPV Reels trend on a regular basis.

You can upload the same Reel to TikTok with no changes. Working cross-platform is a good way to maximize your reach. There’s even an option to post Instagram Stories to your Facebook Story automatically. Convenient.

‍

Cinewhoops, cinequads and cinelifters

Cinewhoops are great for slow, cinematic shots in tight spaces. You can fly them inside buildings or even in the forest, and their prop guards keep damage comparably low.

Cinequads (5" quads) are widely used for social media content because they handle so easily. They’re a great choice for outdoor sports, nature and action filming. Don’t use them indoors or close to people.

Cinelifters are powerful drones, mainly for commercial projects where they carry cinema cameras. Cinema cameras deliver high-resolution visuals but are big and heavy next to action cameras like a GoPro.

‍

Action cameras and FPV drones

For action shots and training we mostly work with the latest GoPro. Why GoPro? We tested other action cameras and weren’t happy with the results. Even though we do plenty of commercial projects with our cinema camera, our most-used camera is still the GoPro Hero 10. Some shots can only be done with it, and it’s far cheaper to crash than a RED Komodo.

For stabilization we use Reelsteady instead of HyperSmooth, because it keeps the unique look of the footage. Reelsteady is probably the most advanced gyro-data tool on the market right now. Note: it only works with GoPro.

‍

Our GoPro settings

Framing – 4:3
FPS – 50
Shutter – min. 1/100, better 1/200
ISO – 100
Sharpness – Low
Color – Flat (with post color grading)
ND filter

Note: shutter at least 2× the frame rate for motion blur, better 4×. Example: 25 fps = 1/50, better 1/100.

‍

Pro hack for creators

Instead of filming in 16:9 and then reframing to 9:16 for Reels or TikToks, use a special adapter that lets you skip that step. Lock your GoPro orientation horizontally – otherwise Reelsteady won’t accept your FPV footage.

‍

Next up

Part III looks at FPV drones in a professional context – together we’ll explore what they make possible in commercial and cinema work.

‍

Any questions about FPV or your next project? Reach out to our team without any obligation – we’re happy to help with advice and hands-on support.

‍

So long,
Nikolay Keller