Cinewhoop FPV

 

A Cinewhoop is a quadcopter with prop guards, typically running 3″ propellers and capable of carrying a GoPro for capturing cinematic footage.
Introducing Cinewhoop Drones: Explained for Beginners

Cinewhoop drones have revolutionized the world of FPV flying by enabling close proximity and indoor flights that were previously considered risky. These drones are designed specifically for filming purposes, allowing skilled FPV pilots to capture unique shots in real estate properties, factories, and other tight spaces.

A cinewhoop drone is a first-person view (FPV) drone that is built for flying in close proximity to subjects. FPV drones are operated using video goggles that provide a live video feed from the drone's camera, allowing the pilot to see what the drone sees.

One of the key features of cinewhoop drones is the presence of propeller guards or ducts that prevent the spinning propellers from causing any harm to the subjects being filmed. These drones are typically compact in size, allowing them to maneuver through small spaces and tight gaps.

The name "cinewhoop" is a combination of "cinematic" and "Tiny Whoop," which refers to small ducted FPV drones. Initially, cinewhoops were equipped with 3-inch propellers and carried action cameras like GoPro. However, the design has evolved, and now there are various sizes available, from 75mm propellered drones to larger 5-inch drones capable of carrying cinema-grade cameras such as the Black Magic Pocket Cinema Cameras.

In terms of design, cinewhoops have moved away from fully ducted designs and now feature propeller guards for safety reasons. These drones are known for their durability due to their lightweight and caged structure, but they can be quite loud during flight.

When choosing a cinewhoop drone, there are several options available on the market. Bind-and-fly (BNF) cinewhoops have gained popularity, and manufacturers like GEPRC, iFlight, and BetaFPV offer reliable options. The size of the cinewhoop and the camera it can carry depend on the specific model. For indoor flights, a 3-inch propeller-sized cinewhoop or smaller is recommended, while 2.5-inch propeller-sized cinewhoops are suitable for staying under the 250g weight limit.

It's important to note that even BNF cinewhoops may require some tuning for optimal flight characteristics and efficiency. This tuning involves adjusting the feedback loop on the flight controller firmware, such as the PID controller in Betaflight firmware. Additionally, cinewhoops come in two design categories: traditional upright-mounted motor designs and inverted motor designs in a pusher configuration. The choice between the two depends on personal preference.

To capture smooth and cinematic footage with a cinewhoop, pilot skill is essential. Flying in manual or acro mode offers the best control and requires constant adjustments to maintain a smooth line and follow a clear flight path. Adjusting the rates on the drone can provide finer control, and balancing roll, pitch, and yaw inputs is crucial for achieving smooth turns and lines.

Choosing the right camera for your cinewhoop is also important. GoPro Hero series cameras are popular choices, but other options like insta360 and DJI Action cameras offer lightweight alternatives. Built-in camera stabilization or software stabilization tools can be used to stabilize footage in post-processing.

When filming with a cinewhoop, camera settings play a significant role. Shutter angle and speed should be set to achieve natural motion blur, and neutral density (ND) filters can help manage exposure. Throttle control is essential for maintaining a steady altitude and smooth footage.

After recording your flight footage, editing and color grading can be done using software like Davinci Resolve for optimal quality. Mobile apps like the GoPro Quik App are convenient for quick edits and sharing on social media.

In summary, cinewhoop drones have opened up new possibilities for capturing dynamic footage in close proximity and indoor environments. With the right equipment, skills, and camera settings, you can achieve impressive cinematic shots. While there is a learning curve, cinewhoops are beginner-friendly and offer durability for those learning to fly FPV.