Are you wondering why you’re losing real estate photography gigs to more equipped drone pilots? The answer is simple and I’m here to tell you why. 

While many focus solely on their drone’s specs, the real pros know that accessories make all the difference. There are 9 critical tools that can solve common issues like limited battery life, storage constraints, and subpar image quality.

Through years of experience and teaching hundreds of students, I’ve pinpointed the must-have accessories that consistently produce stunning real estate imagery above your competitors. These tools will help you overcome technical hurdles and deliver results that clients rave about.

Discover the 9 best drone accessories for real estate photography that will transform your real estate photography and position you as the go-to aerial photographer in your area.

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1. Neutral Density (ND) Filters – Perfecting Your Exposure

When I first started flying drones for real estate photography, I didn’t realize how much lighting conditions could impact my shots. Bright days led to overexposed images, while cloudy days left everything looking flat. That’s where Neutral Density (ND) filters came in, and they’ve been a huge advantage for me.

Neutral Density Filters are a must-have!

Think of ND filters as sunglasses for your drone camera. They reduce the amount of light hitting the sensor, giving you way more control over your exposure. 

On sunny days, I often use the ND16 or ND32 filter from the DJI Mini 4 Pro ND Filter Set or the DJI Mavic 3 Pro ND Filter Set. These filters are perfect for slowing down the shutter speed without blowing out the highlights, especially when capturing smooth water features or motion in trees.

If you’re flying an Autel drone, you’ve got options, too. The EVO II Pro ND Filters are designed specifically for Autel drones, giving you the same control over exposure in bright conditions. On days when it’s less sunny, the EVO Lite+ ND Filters are great for balancing exposure between the sky and the property while reducing glare from windows.

Even on cloudy days, using a light ND4 filter can work wonders. It helps bring down highlights just enough to create a balanced shot, cutting through reflections and making the property look crisp and clear.

A set of different ND filters, like the DJI Air 3 ND Filter Set, should cover you for most lighting situations. Don’t skimp on quality here—cheap filters can leave your shots looking off-color, and that’s the last thing you want when trying to showcase a stunning property. Investing in a good set of ND filters will give you consistent, professional results in any lighting condition, whether you’re capturing a sunny backyard pool or a dimly lit interior.

Having the right ND filter in your kit means you’re always ready to get the perfect shot, no matter what the weather is doing.

2. Safe Landing Spots – Launch Pads

When it comes to landing your drone safely, having a solid landing pad can save you from a lot of headaches. You might think, “Do I really need one?”—but trust me, landing on uneven ground or in muddy areas can do a number on your drone’s propellers and sensors.

launch pad for safe landing spots for drones

A good landing pad ensures you always have a clean, stable spot to take off and land, no matter where you are. The EXO Launch Pad is a fantastic option if you’re always on the move. It’s foldable, lightweight, and easy to store, making it perfect for real estate work. It even comes with pegs to secure it to the ground, so you don’t have to worry about the wind messing up your landing.

For something even sturdier, the Hoodman Drone Launch Pad is a great choice, especially for those shooting in rough environments like construction sites. It’s weighted, so you don’t need to stake it down, and it’s durable enough to handle years of heavy use.

Having a reliable landing pad isn’t just about keeping your drone clean; it shows clients that you’re serious about protecting your gear and getting the best shots possible. Whether it’s a beachfront property or a tight urban space, a landing pad makes sure you’re always landing safely.

3. Intelligent Flight Batteries – Fly Longer

When you’re out shooting properties, time is everything. You need enough power to cover outdoor shots, maybe some quick interior peeks, and neighborhood flyovers. A typical real estate shoot takes about 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the property. That’s why I always carry at least three batteries to get through a full day or even one shoot. 

an image of an intelligent flight battery for dji drones
Have about 3-5 batteries ready for your shoot

The DJI Intelligent Flight Battery Plus is a reliable option for most drone pilots. It gives you solid flight time and is easy to swap out during shoots. This one can give you up to 45 minutes of flight time, depending on your drone model, which is ideal for larger properties or tricky sunset shots where timing matters.

Intelligent Flight Batteries

Don’t just focus on batteries—think about charging, too. The DJI Battery Station lets you charge three batteries at once, which is a huge time saver on busy days. I also keep a car charger with me, so I can recharge between shoots without worrying about running out of power.

Charging Hubs

Just be careful not to drain your car’s battery! And don’t forget to maintain your batteries: Store them at 50% charge if you’re not flying for a while, and always let them cool before recharging. It’ll keep them in good shape and ready for your next shoot.

4. Memory Cards – Never Run Out of Space

When you’re shooting real estate, your memory card is your lifeline. It holds all the footage and photos that make or break your shoot. I’ve been in situations where a “card full” warning popped up at the worst moment—trust me, it’s not fun. Always have an extra card with you, just in case. And remember, not all memory cards are equal.

an image of the SanDisk Extreme memory SD card for drones
SanDisk Extreme is Great for Drone Storage

For real estate work, you need speed. Go for at least a UHS-I Speed Class 3 or V30 card, as these handle 4K video and rapid photo bursts without lagging. SanDisk Extreme Pro is a solid choice here. It’s fast, reliable, and comes in multiple sizes—64GB or 256GB are perfect for a full day of shooting. Pro tip: Instead of using one big card, use two 64GB cards. That way, if one fails, you don’t lose everything.

If you’re looking for another option, Lexar Professional 1066x is also worth considering. It’s fast enough for both 4K video and high-res photography. Both brands are well-known for their durability and speed, so you can focus on getting the shot, not whether your card can keep up. Don’t forget to label your cards with a small piece of tape—it’ll save you time when you’re reviewing footage later.

5. Drone Lights – Light Up the Night

Seeing your drone with its default lights on is hard to see in late evening shots. And this is why I encourage all drone pilots flying recreationally or commercially to get a strobe light for your drone.

Built-in lights vs. add-on lights
Many drones, like the DJI and Autel models, come with built-in lights. These are fine for helping you keep track of your drone in low light, but they’re not powerful enough to actually see your drone clearly when it’s not near you.  

For that, you need add-on lights. I like using something like the Lume Cube Strobe. It’s super bright and can be aimed exactly where you need it, which is perfect for highlighting key features of a house or yard during twilight.

an image of the lume cube strobe light for drones
Lume Cube Strobe Light Fits All Drone Models

Tips for using drone lights
When using drone lights, it’s all about balance. Too much light can wash out your shots, and not enough can leave them looking flat. I usually start with a lower setting and bump it up until it looks just right. You want to highlight the property without making it look overexposed. Oh, and don’t forget to check local laws—some places have restrictions on flying drones with lights at night. Better to be safe than get a fine.

6. Tablet Holders – See the Big Picture

Flying with a tablet is a step up. Instead of squinting at a phone, you get a much clearer view of everything around your drone. It’s especially useful when you’re trying to frame shots for real estate photography. Details stand out more, and it’s easier to fine-tune those sweeping aerial shots that potential buyers love. Plus, having a bigger screen just makes the whole experience smoother—no need to zoom in as much.

Can you use a tablet holder with a controller that has a built-in screen?

If you’re flying something like the DJI RC 2 that has a built-in screen, you might wonder if a tablet holder is necessary. The short answer is that you don’t really need one, but it’s still an option. The built-in screen on the DJI RC 2 is great for most situations, but if you prefer the bigger screen of a tablet, you can still attach one. The LifThor Freya Tablet & Tripod Mount for DJI RC 2 is perfect. It’s designed to hold your tablet securely, and it works even if your controller already has a screen. You can find it here.

Setting it up the right way
Mounting a tablet holder like this is easy. You just clip it onto your controller, slide in your tablet, and adjust the angle until it feels comfortable. I always double-check that the tablet’s locked in tight—especially if there’s a breeze. And don’t forget, using a tablet means more battery drain, so make sure to have a power bank handy if you’re out shooting all day.

7. Propeller Shields – Stay Safe Indoors

Flying indoors is a completely different ballgame. I’ve had a few close calls with ceiling fans and furniture, and trust me, it doesn’t take much to ruin a good drone if you’re not careful. That’s where propeller shields come in handy—they’re simple accessories that wrap around your drone’s blades to prevent any accidental damage during tight indoor flights.

If you’re looking for reliable propeller shields, the DJI Mini 4 Pro 360° Propeller Guard is top-notch. These snap on easily and fully enclose the propellers, giving you extra protection. And the best part? They don’t mess with the drone’s flight performance too much, so you still get smooth footage, even in tight spaces.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been filming in someone’s home for a real estate shoot, weaving through narrow hallways or avoiding chandeliers. One wrong move could send your drone crashing into a wall or knocking over a vase. With these shields, I don’t have to worry as much, and it gives me the confidence to pull off those tricky indoor shots.

Best Shields for Your Drone

For most indoor jobs, I stick with DJI Propeller Guards. They’re lightweight and super easy to install. I like that they snap on without needing any tools, so I can quickly switch them out if I need to fly outdoors. If you’re flying indoors, especially for real estate, I highly recommend investing in a set.

How to Put Them On

Attaching propeller shields is simple. They’re usually marked for specific propellers—front and back—so you just snap them into place. Once installed, take your time on your first few flights to get used to the slight change in how your drone handles. With shields on, your drone will be slightly less responsive, but nothing you can’t manage with a bit of practice. Just be mindful of the extra weight, especially if your drone is under 250g without the guards, as it might push it over the weight limit.

These little things can save you a lot of trouble indoors, and I never fly inside without them anymore. They’re not just for protection; they give you that extra edge of safety when things get tight.

8. Carry Bags – Keep Your Drone Gear Safe

When you’re out capturing shots, the last thing you want to worry about is damaging your drone. That’s why having the right carry bag makes all the difference. I’ve tried a range of options, and while every drone usually comes with a soft, universal case that’s convenient, it’s not always enough for the more rugged jobs.

For my heavy-duty work, I rely on the DJI X-PORT Carrying Case. This hard case offers superior protection, especially when I’m on long drives or working in rougher environments. It’s built just like the H20T case, meaning it’s designed to handle the bumps and knocks while keeping everything secure inside. Plus, it has space for third-party payloads, making it extremely versatile.

Now, choosing between hard cases and soft cases really comes down to the job. If you’re headed to a quick shoot at a nearby property, soft cases or backpacks can be much more practical. They’re lightweight, easy to carry, and make setup a breeze. Just make sure you’re careful where you place them because a rough surface can still jostle your gear.

For long hauls or when I know I’ll be moving through construction zones or rougher terrain, I stick with hard cases like the DJI X-PORT. They’re bulkier, sure, but the peace of mind is worth it. Nothing feels worse than arriving at a job only to find your drone scratched or damaged.

Packing Tips for Quick Setups

Here’s how I pack for maximum efficiency: keep the essentials—extra batteries, memory cards, and propeller guards—in easily accessible pockets. That way, you’re not scrambling to find what you need while setting up. I always fold my drone’s arms and place it securely in the main compartment, with smaller accessories like filters or propeller shields stowed in the side pockets.

This approach helps me shave off a few minutes from my setup, which is crucial when you’re trying to make the most of limited daylight or rushing between appointments. It’s all about staying organized and knowing where everything is so you can focus on getting those killer shots.

9. Photo & Video Apps – Make Editing Easy

Editing is just as important as the shot itself. Adobe Lightroom is a top choice for editing drone photos. I love it because of how easy it makes adjusting exposure and contrast, which can be tricky with aerial shots that have weird lighting. It’s simple to use, and the mobile version lets you edit photos straight from your phone while on location.

Apps that help you plan flights and follow rules
When planning flights, AirMap is a must. It’s not just about getting great shots—it’s about making sure you’re flying legally. AirMap shows no-fly zones and helps with real-time updates on airspace restrictions, so you don’t accidentally fly where you shouldn’t. It’s super helpful for making sure you’re within the law when shooting properties near airports or cities.

Smart tools to make your aerial shots look amazing
If you want to level up your aerial footage, Litchi is a powerful app that lets you set waypoints and get smoother, more cinematic shots. You can program it to fly in patterns while you focus on getting the shot just right. It’s an essential tool if you want a professional-looking video with minimal manual control.

Conclusion

So this article covered a lot!  With these 9 key drone add-ons, you’re set to take some awesome real estate photos and videos. Remember, it’s not just about having the gear – it’s about using it well.

So, grab these add-ons and start creating some cool aerial shots! Your real estate clients will love the results, and you might become the go-to drone photographer in your area.

FAQ on Drone Accessories

What accessories are essential for drone battery management?

To keep your drone flying longer during real estate shoots, invest in at least two extra batteries and a charging hub that can charge multiple batteries at once, like the DJI Battery Charging Hub. This way, you can swap out batteries quickly and avoid downtime. Keep one charging while the other is in use to maximize flight time during busy shooting days.

What type of filters should I use for real estate drone photography?

ND (Neutral Density) filters like ND4, ND8, ND16, and ND32 help you control light exposure, especially on sunny days. 

  • For overcast skies, ND4 reduces slight glare.
  • ND8 and ND16 are ideal for moderate sunlight to balance brightness.
  • ND32 is best for very bright conditions. 

These filters allow for more cinematic shots and help prevent overexposed images.

How can I improve the range of my drone for larger properties?

Antenna signal boosters, such as the DJI Range Extender, can significantly increase the range of your drone, giving you better control over larger properties. This ensures a stable signal even when you’re flying over vast estates or areas with obstacles like trees or buildings. Boosters are easy to attach and can greatly reduce signal loss.

What type of landing gear is best for real estate photography?

Landing gear extensions, like the PGYTECH Landing Gear Extensions, help keep your drone elevated when taking off or landing on uneven surfaces like gravel, grass, or even dirt. They prevent your camera and gimbal from touching the ground, reducing the risk of damage. They are lightweight, easy to snap on, and provide extra protection during landings.

How do I keep my drone steady in windy conditions?

A weighted landing pad, like the Hoodman Drone Launch Pad, provides stability during takeoff and landing in windy areas. The weighted edges keep the pad in place and prevent the drone from tipping over, even on grass or dirt. It also protects your drone’s camera from dust or debris when landing on rough surfaces.

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