The DJI Air 3 is one of the most anticipated drones of the year, offering advanced features for both amateur and professional pilots. Among its most notable capabilities are the Activetrack and Follow Me modes, which allow users to capture dynamic footage with ease. This article explores a flight test comparing these two features to help users understand their strengths and ideal use cases.

Overview of Activetrack and Follow Me

Both Activetrack and Follow Me are intelligent flight modes designed to keep subjects in frame automatically. While they share similar goals, they operate differently and are suited to different scenarios. Understanding these differences is key for maximizing the drone’s capabilities during filming or photography sessions.

Activetrack Mode

Activetrack uses advanced computer vision to recognize and follow a subject, whether it’s a person, vehicle, or object. It offers options like Trace, Spotlight, and Parallel modes, each providing unique tracking behaviors. Activetrack is particularly effective in complex environments with obstacles, as it can intelligently navigate around them while maintaining focus on the subject.

Follow Me Mode

Follow Me relies on GPS and GLONASS satellite signals to keep the drone locked onto the transmitter, typically a remote controller or a mobile device. It maintains a consistent distance and altitude relative to the operator, making it ideal for moving shots where the subject is the pilot or a device held by the pilot. Follow Me is simple to activate and works well in open areas.

Flight Test Setup

For the test, a DJI Air 3 was flown in an outdoor environment with varying obstacles and open spaces. The drone was set to switch between Activetrack and Follow Me modes during different segments. The subject was a person walking along a trail, with the drone capturing footage from different angles and distances.

Performance Comparison

Tracking Accuracy

Activetrack demonstrated high precision in tracking the subject, even when it moved behind obstacles or changed direction abruptly. The drone adjusted smoothly, maintaining focus without losing the subject. Follow Me maintained a steady position relative to the operator but occasionally drifted when the operator moved rapidly or behind cover.

Obstacle Navigation

Activetrack’s computer vision allowed the drone to recognize and avoid obstacles, making it suitable for complex terrains. Follow Me lacked obstacle avoidance, so the drone required a clear line of sight to prevent collisions. In cluttered environments, Activetrack proved safer and more reliable.

Ease of Use

Follow Me was straightforward to activate by pressing a button, making it accessible for beginners. Activetrack involved selecting the subject and choosing a mode, which required a bit more setup but provided greater control and flexibility. Experienced users preferred Activetrack for its customization options.

Conclusion

The flight test revealed that both Activetrack and Follow Me have their strengths. Activetrack excels in complex environments and offers precise subject tracking with obstacle avoidance. Follow Me is ideal for simple, open-area shots where ease of use and consistent following are priorities. For versatile and safe filming, activating Activetrack in conjunction with manual oversight is recommended, especially in challenging terrains.

  • Use Activetrack for complex, obstacle-rich environments.
  • Choose Follow Me for straightforward, open-area filming.
  • Combine both modes for maximum flexibility and safety.