# DJI Mavic 4 Pro Review: After 3 Months Of Intense Photography

URL: https://jvn.photo/review-dji-mavic-4-pro-after-3-months-of-intense-photography/
Last updated: 2026-10-14

> I have flown the DJI Mavic 4 Pro over 2000 kilometers whilst taking almost 40.000 images with it so far. That means I finally feel confident enough to share my unbiased opinion in this photography-focused review of the DJI Mavic 4 Pro. Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy!

The DJI Mavic 4 Pro is the best folding drone DJI has built for stills photography, beating the Mavic 3 Pro on dynamic range, colour science, and wind handling. After three months and roughly 40000 images across Iceland and Greenland, it has replaced my Mavic 3 Pro for paid work. If you are buying in the US, it is also worth understanding [what the DJI US ban means for availability](https://jvn.photo/dji-ban-united-states/) before you commit. The new Hasselblad main sensor and the upgraded gimbal are the two changes that justify upgrading, while the longer-range OcuSync transmission is a useful bonus. If you only have thirty seconds, start with the verdict below.

## Quick Verdict: The DJI Mavic 4 Pro After 3 Months

I am not going to lie. When I first picked up the DJI Mavic 4 Pro, I was sceptical. The Mavic 3 Pro already did everything I needed. If you have landed here searching for the DJI Mavic 4, that is the same drone, DJI just adds the Pro to the name. Three months and three Iceland trips later, I am quietly converted.

**What Changed My Mind:** the new Hasselblad sensor, the genuinely better dynamic range, and a build that handles Icelandic wind better than any folding drone I have flown.

**Buy it if** you shoot commercially, you sell prints, or you need the highest image quality DJI currently offers in a folding drone.

**Skip it if** you already own the Mavic 3 Pro and you are not doing paid work (the upgrade is real, just not 2000 USD of real for most enthusiasts), or you want a drone you can throw in a daypack ([look at the Mini 5 Pro instead](https://jvn.photo/dji-mini-5-pro-review-should-you-get-one-for-drone-photography/)).

**My verdict:** the best drone DJI has ever made for serious photography, and the one I now reach for on paid trips.

*Disclaimer: This article is not sponsored in any way. Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.***You can now get 30% off [the Drone Photography Masterclass](https://jvn.photo/drone-photography-masterclass/mavic-4-pro-offer/)**. Scroll down below to enjoy the offer!
Table of Contents

- Quick Verdict: The DJI Mavic 4 Pro After 3 Months
- The DJI Mavic 4 Pro After More Than 10000 Kilometres
- Is The DJI Mavic 4 Worth It For Photography In 2026?
- Is There A DJI Mavic 4 Without The Pro, And Why Isn’t It Sold In The US?
- How Does The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Improve On The Mavic 3 Pro?

- Mavic 4 Pro’s Stellar Image Quality

- My Photography Workhorse: The 1x Wide-Angle Camera
- An Unchanged 2,5x Mid-Range Camera
- An Improved 6,5x Telephoto Camera

- A Plethora Of Quality-of-Life Improvements On Mavic 4 Pro

- What Could DJI Improve On The Mavic 4 Pro?

- The Mavic 4 Pro’s Infinity Gimbal Shortcomings
- A Few Other Things To Consider
- Software Improvements To Turn Mavic 4 Pro Into A Photography Powerhouse

- How Much Is The DJI Mavic 4 Pro, And Can You Buy It In The US?
- DJI Mavic 4 Pro Price And Which Combo To Buy
- Mavic 4 Pro Is A Photography Beast
- Compare The RAW Files Of Mavic 3 Pro With Mavic 4 Pro
- DJI Mavic 4 Pro Specifications (Compared To The Mavic 3 Pro, Mini 5 Pro And Air 3S)
- Affordable Alternatives
- Frequently Asked Questions

- Is The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Worth The Price For Photography?
- What Are The Main Drawbacks Of The Mavic 4 Pro?
- Is The Mavic 4 Pro Better Than The DJI Air 3S For Photography?
- Does The Mavic 4 Pro Need ND Filters?
- How Long Does The Mavic 4 Pro Battery Last In Real Conditions?
- Is The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Illegal In The US?
- Why Is The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Not Sold In The US?
- Is The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Overkill?

- The Drone Photography Masterclass

[image_with_animation image_url=”1174911″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*I have put the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) through its paces during the last three months, taking it from one extreme to another. As a professional drone photographer, I push the limits of what I can do with the technology to produce great photographs.*

## The DJI Mavic 4 Pro After More Than 10000 Kilometres

I’ve flown the Mavic 4 Pro since release day: well over 10000 kilometres across Iceland and Greenland by now.

**The cameras I actually use.** The 1x main camera is still the one I shoot with most. But I reach for the 2.4x and 6x telephotos a lot more than I did on my Mavic 3 Pro.

**What broke.** The folding mechanism on one of the arms broke inside the body of the drone. I fly this drone A LOT, so keep that in mind. DJI had it repaired within days.

**Batteries.** My original batteries have lost about 20% of their capacity, so I bought a new set. The old ones still work fine, but on longer flights you notice it when you’re flying next to someone with a brand new set.

**Is it still in my bag?** Yes. It’s still the drone I use for paid work. A few things I’d love DJI to improve:

- better battery life on the remote

- an anti-glare coating on the remote’s screen

- a variable zoom instead of three separate cameras

- a proper vertical mode without the limitations of the 360° Infinity Gimbal

## Is The DJI Mavic 4 Worth It For Photography In 2026?

Short answer, from three months and roughly 40000 images over Iceland and Greenland: yes, if stills are your priority and you can live with the size. The 100MP Hasselblad sensor pulls dynamic range and colour the Mavic 3 Pro simply cannot reach, the 360° Infinity Gimbal lets me shoot true verticals and straight-down images without cropping into them later, and 51 minutes in the air means I wait for the light instead of racing the battery home. It is not the drone for you if you want something pocketable or cheap, and in the US you will have to buy it through a third-party retailer like B&H rather than DJI directly. But as a photography tool, it is the best folding drone DJI has ever made, and it is the one I fly for paid work.

## Is There A DJI Mavic 4 Without The Pro, And Why Isn’t It Sold In The US?

Plenty of people land here searching for just ‘DJI Mavic 4’, so let’s clear up the confusion. DJI has only released one version, the Mavic 4 Pro, not a separate, cheaper ‘Mavic 4’ model. Owning one in the US is not illegal, DJI has simply not brought it to market there officially, likely tied to US-China drone politics rather than the hardware. It’s FCC-authorised, so you can legally fly one, and imported units turn up at US retailers such as B&H. You won’t get an official DJI US warranty with those, though, and you may hit region-locked firmware. DJI has caused this same kind of naming confusion before, with [the Lito 1 and Lito X1](https://jvn.photo/dji-lito-1-lito-x1-mini-5-pro-compare-the-raw-files-yourself/).

## How Does The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Improve On The Mavic 3 Pro?

Before I dive into the juicy details of my review, I want to get one thing out of the way first: **the initial hate the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) received upon release has been wildly undeserving and unjustified**. Many claimed the improvements were greatly exaggerated and that the overly positive views on [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) were undeserving. I don’t agree with that vision at all. The [DJI Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) is, undoubtedly, the best drone on the market for photography. Is it perfect? No, it is not. But let’s be fair: what tool is perfect? **To me, the better question to ask is: is it the best available tool on the market today for photographers?** And in that case, the answer is undeniably “yes”. [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) has brought many incremental upgrades to the table over its predecessor, almost all of which are welcomed to someone who is a professional drone photographer.

If you want the long-term photographer’s perspective on its predecessor before reading on, my [Mavic 3 Pro review](/review-dji-mavic-3-pro-after-6-months-of-use/) covers everything I learned during my time with it.

### Mavic 4 Pro’s Stellar Image Quality

Let’s start off with the most obvious improvement on [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro): **the image quality**. Given that the camera module houses 3 different cameras, it’s important to look at each one separately and how they improve (or don’t) over the DJI Mavic 3 Pro.

If you want to look at comparable RAW files between Mavic 4 Pro and Mavic 3 Pro, it is possible to do so [in a separate blog which I published before](https://jvn.photo/mavic4-vs-mavic3-raw-files/).[image_with_animation image_url=”1174726″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*[DJI Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) comes with another 3-camera powerhouse. While it looks similar, the sensors and image quality have largely changed for the better.*

#### My Photography Workhorse: The 1x Wide-Angle Camera

**The [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)‘s 1x main camera, which I use to capture 95% of my photographs, has a massive improvement over the Mavic 3 Pro’s 1x camera.** The 25 megapixel micro four thirds sensor, which now has an aspect ratio of 3:2, captures **14 bit RAW** files as opposed to 12 bit RAW. This results in richer colors, which is something I immediately noticed when I began using the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro). To my eyes the files are so clean and crisp that for the first time I find that single images have become usable on their own for demanding photographers.

A big change has been the change to a **tighter focal length** on the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)’s main camera. The main camera now has a 28mm equivalent lens as opposed to the 24mm equivalent lens on Mavic 3 Pro. Some people have found that to be a very negative development but for a photographer like myself I have welcomed this change. Creating drone panoramas using this focal length has become considerably easier as there is less distortion at the edges of the frame.

[Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)’s extra 5 megapixels are not the only resolution upgrade as the sensor now has **a quad-bayer layout** which allows you to capture 100 megapixel images when desired – at the expense of dynamic range. When comparing an upscaled version of the 25 megapixel image with the 100 megapixel one, I don’t notice any visible difference but your mileage may vary of course.

Finally, one of the most obvious improvements with this new sensor is the **improvements at higher ISO ranges**. Especially from ISO 800 and upwards, there is a massive noticeable difference between the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)’s main camera and its predecessor. The improvement has made me dream of night time photography with a drone, which I feel says a lot.

But, as always, **I love to let my images speak for themselves**. I have been able to produce images that I have been super excited about using the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)‘s wide-angle camera. I know us photographers love to get into the nitty gritty of the technology but, ultimately, it is about the final result first and foremost. Below are some of my images taken in the last few months with [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro).[image_with_animation image_url=”1174555″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”1174544″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”1174532″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”1174564″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”1174561″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”1174557″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”1174540″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”1174531″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”1174547″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”1174559″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

#### An Unchanged 2,5x Mid-Range Camera

The [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) comes with a mid-range camera which is **now a 2,5x zoom**, as opposed to 3x, due to the change in focal length on [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)’s main camera. The focal length is essentially the same (a 70mm equivalent) as before but that’s not the only thing that has remained the same. To me, there is no visible change in this camera whilst using it, which is further affirmed when looking at [my RAW file comparison](https://jvn.photo/mavic4-vs-mavic3-raw-files/). The camera still produces a sharp 12 megapixel image, which can be increased to 48 megapixel when switching on the quad-bayer mode.

However, one improvement I did notice is that **the focusing issues I experienced at the volcanic eruptions in Iceland, a big issue with the Mavic 3 Pro, are a thing of the past**. While [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) will still lose focus on occasion, it is possible to easily regain focus. With Mavic 3 Pro, you would not be able to regain focus at all until the drone had been switched off and on again. This seemed to be occur only with top down shots and near the volcanic eruptions I have been documenting. I know this is an incredibly niche issue but because it is not-so-niche to me, it is an improvement I welcome.[image_with_animation image_url=”1174742″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*The image quality of [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)‘s 2,5x camera remains unchanged, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.*

#### An Improved 6,5x Telephoto Camera

The [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)’s telephoto camera is **now a 6,5x lens**, as opposed to 7x, and has the same focal length as before (168mm equivalent). However, it has seen some big improvements. While there is a v**ery slight increase to 12,5 megapixels** (50 megapixels in quad-bayer mode), the **biggest improvement can be seen in the sharpness of the images** produced. When I compared the 6,5x images on [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) to its predecessor, the sharpness difference is night & day. However, I don’t tend to use this lens very much for photography as atmospheric haze becomes quite a big issue at this focal length but it works great for recording videos of erupting volcanoes or wildlife (to not disturb them).[image_with_animation image_url=”1174558″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*[Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)‘s telephoto lens is excellent for photographing wildlife undisturbed. It allows you to keep plenty of distance and using the high resolution mode, you can crop in even more to give you that extra range.*

[image_with_animation image_url=”1174544″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*It is also possible to use [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)‘s telephoto lens to compress landscape elements and create compelling, unseen before, angles to familiar landscapes.*

### A Plethora Of Quality-of-Life Improvements On Mavic 4 Pro

While image quality is of course one of the most important aspects to photography gear, [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) has many other smaller improvements that can help you achieve the best photography results. Below I outline some of **the most noteworthy improvements that may look small on paper but have proven to actually be big upgrades** in my view.

- **The battery life combined with the increased flight speed is a gamechanger.** The battery life is rated to be 51 minutes on [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) and there is definitely a noticeable, yet small, difference. However, when you add that to the upgrades in flight speed, this actually turns into a massive advantage. In Normal mode, the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) is now able to fly at 18m/s and even 27m/s in Sport mode. This means that not only do you get more battery life, but you also get much more time at a shooting location because you are able to get there & back faster. I was flying together with people using fairly new Mavic 3 Pro’s this summer in numerous instances and this is a difference that really stood out. I was able to fly longer but also get to locations quicker with my [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro). This in turn meant I had more time to figure out compositions and find new interesting angles.

- The [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)’s **transmission rate has also been upgraded to the new OcuSync 4+** which provides a more stable and smoother transmission. It also increases the range but I didn’t notice that much at all due to CE regulations limiting the transmission power. However, what I did notice, is that my transmission has been much more stable when flying with other drone pilots at the same time.

- A big improvement with [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) is the **DJI RC Pro 2, the brand new controller**. Yes, it looks bulky but it is so much better than any other remote I have used that it easily justifies the higher price point of buying the Creator Edition. The new controller has a much brighter screen (up to 2000 nits) which makes the regular controller’s screen look as if it is broken. The screen is also bigger and sits closer to your face thanks to the unique folding design. Another big benefit is the new custom wheel button. By pressing the center button, you can cycle through which camera setting you want to adjust (aperture, shutter speed or ISO). Using the wheel around it, you can quickly change each setting. There are a lot of other, smaller, improvements too such as faster charging capabilities, quicker boot up time, a low power sleep mode and it can automatically fold down the control sticks. Overall, it is hard to go back to another controller after you have used the DJI RC Pro 2.

[image_with_animation image_url=”1174723″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*My favourite addition to the new DJI RC Pro 2 is the new wheel button that allows you to control all the manual camera settings without needing to touch the screen. It is most welcome to someone who mostly wears gloves when shooting outdoors.*

[image_with_animation image_url=”1174724″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*The control sticks now also fold away when you fold down the screen so there is no need to remove them at all.*

- The [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)’s **batteries now come in a battery dock** as is the case with the Mini and Air series drones. However, the new dock has a big advantage which is that it can **charge 3 batteries simultaneously** using the proprietary 240W charging brick. Whilst I am not 100% sure how it exactly works, it seems like there is some “intelligent charging” going on where the battery dock aims to get batteries topped up to the same level before charging them all together. Charging 3 batteries at the same time is faster than charging one at a time using USB-C but not by a big margin. I do wish the USB-C port would just support 240W charging instead of 100W so I wouldn’t have to carry the heavy proprietary charging brick all the time.

- Finally, it is now possible to **access the internal SSD and SD card without switching on the drone at all**. You can just plug in a USB-C cable and access both storage devices easily from a computer or tablet. It’s a minor improvement but one that makes my life much easier when downloading files off my drone.

The Mavic 4 Pro’s Hasselblad main sensor captures roughly one stop more dynamic range than the Mavic 3 Pro across the same scene.

## What Could DJI Improve On The Mavic 4 Pro?

The [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) is a great photography workhorse but, as I have mentioned before, **no tool is perfect** and the DJI Mavic 4 Pro is no exception to that. However, I do feel some of the shortcomings I have encountered also have to be put in perspective as some criticism has made them look much worse than they actually are.

### The Mavic 4 Pro’s Infinity Gimbal Shortcomings

With [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro), a new style of gimbal has been introduced which allows the gimbal to rotate 360 degrees around its axis horizontally. From a photography point of view, the ability to spin 360 degrees horizontally is useless but it can be fun for creating different styles of videos.

The biggest advantage of this new Infinity gimbal design is that **the camera module can now rotate vertically**, a feature that was previously only available on the Mini series and, if you go back several years, on the original Mavic and Mavic 2 Zoom. I welcome that we can shoot vertical now but it comes with a limitation which does not exist on the DJI Mini series.

Because of the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)‘s Infinity gimbal design, **the tilt angle in vertical mode is extremely limited**. Most often, the tilt range will be limited to about 20-30 degrees and is depending on the angle of the drone. That means that on windy days, you can have access to a different range of tilt than on still days due to the tilt of the drone itself. In some instances, I have been able to work around this limitation by flying backwards into the wind while keeping the gimbal tilt wheel down. As soon as you make the drone stop, it will briefly tilt forward to brake, which allows you to shoot further down. The limited vertical tilt range is not always a problem but for my style of photography, it is not ideal as I tend to accentuate foregrounds a lot more than I am able to with Mavic 4 Pro’s vertical mode.

Another problem I have noticed is that if the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) takes off in windy conditions, **the gimbal seems to not always be able to keep the horizon straight**. This doesn’t always happen and I have not been able to find a way to solidly reproduce this issue. However, one way to fix that is by rotating gimbal using the horizontal rotation slider (360 degree gimbal feature) and then reseting it to zero degrees again. This issue may be something that is software related but at the time of writing, no fix has been presented.

Finally, a problem that was also present on Mavic 3 Pro is that t**he gimbal sometimes gets knocked upwards in windy situation**. However, this only occurs when looking straight down and then moving forward or backward. It does feel like the gimbal motors are not strong enough to handle all kinds of windy situations but this is speculation on my part.

Overall, the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)‘s new gimbal design is an improvement over Mavic 3 Pro but for photography, it isn’t that ideal and I wonder how much longer the 360 spinning videos will remain relevant compared to vertically-oriented photography.[image_with_animation image_url=”1174730″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*The [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)‘s gimbal can now turn vertically so it is possible to take true vertical images. However, there are several limitations that are less than ideal for photographers who capture a lot of vertical shots.*

[image_with_animation image_url=”1174738″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*Even though the vertical tilt angle is limited, it has been super welcome to have a screen that also turns vertically. I have used it on many occasions to explain workshop participants what kind of drone panorama I am trying to capture as it is perfect to visualize the end result.*

### A Few Other Things To Consider

There are a few other things to consider, which may or may not be downsides to you. For me, **most of these are not downsides but rather things you should be aware of** when considering buying a [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro).

- [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) is **considerably heavier** and weighs 1063 grams, which is almost 200 grams heavier than its predecessor. The batteries however are very similar in weight. This means **[Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) is a C2 drone** which may require you to have more licensing to fly it in all conditions. The [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) is also **considerably chunkier** than Mavic 3 Pro which means you may need more space in your bag to carry it around.

- [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) is **DJI’s most expensive prosumer drone available today**. At roughly 3400 USD for a Fly More combo, it isn’t cheap. However, considering the market it is aimed at, it isn’t too expensive either.

- I often take off by hand and one of the things I have noticed is that **the back motors of the drone tend to lift off sooner than the front ones by about a second**. While this is only a problem in specific situations, I feel it is important to point out. On one occasion, the drone began lifting but then almost tipped forward due to a sudden wind gust. This may, again, be just a quirk in the software that needs ironing out.

- **Hand takeoff with the DJI RC Pro 2 has become a bit more difficult** because of the screen being away from the actual controls. I sort of circumvent this by holding on the screen during takeoff and then quickly changing over to the controls when it begins to hover but it is less than ideal. However, I do feel some software tweaks could make this easier by, for example, allowing a button to initiate takeoff. That way you can keep your hand on/near the control sticks.

- When shooting directly into the sun, **ugly lens flares & discoloration still remain a problem**. This is an issue that has always been there on any small camera system and I am unsure whether this can actually be fixed. I tend to keep the sun out of my images, or compose my image in such a way that sun flares are not a problem.

- While the Ciné version of Mavic 3 Pro had a 1TB SSD built-in, the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)’s Creator version **only has a 512GB SSD built-in**. After some testing, it also seems like the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) has a slower SSD. The Creator version also does not have ProRes video support, which is good to know but irrelevant for photography.

[image_with_animation image_url=”1174739″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*The new DJI RC Pro 2 is considerably thicker and bulkier than its predecessor. However, this is such a minor downside compared to all the improvements it brings.*

[image_with_animation image_url=”1174549″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*Despite the downsides, I have been able to capture superb images with my [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) under all kinds of conditions, which is ultimately what matters most to me.*

### Software Improvements To Turn Mavic 4 Pro Into A Photography Powerhouse

Before I wrap up this [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) review, **I want to share a few suggestions for software changes** I think could really level up and improve the photography side of drones. I am sure it is a long-shot that someone in the product team of DJI would read this, but I will share them anyway.

- Now that all of the cameras on [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) support high resolution modes, **it would be great to have a quick toggle, or visible indicator, on the screen when flying to show which resolution you are shooting in**. More than once I have captured images at 100 megapixel unintentionally because I forgot to switch it off beforehand. The only way to switch between moves is by going into the camera menu. A quick toggle or indicator would be a massive quality-of-life improvement.

- As mentioned before, it would be super helpful to have** a way to initiate the takeoff procedure from the controller one-handed** so it is easier to hand launch with the new DJI RC Pro 2.

- [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro)’s that have an **internal SSD and an SD card should be able to mirror images to both storage media**. This could be a great way to make sure you have a backup on your drone of all your SD card footage or vice versa. It would even be great if the RAW files could be transmitted whilst flying and stored on the controller’s micro SD card. If videos can be cached wirelessly, why can’t photos?

- While [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) now supports 7-shot brackets in AEB mode, **it would be a big improvement if we could select how wide the bracket should be or even how many stops in-between there should be**. Right now, the drone captures images with .7 EV increments which cannot be changed.

- **Capturing brackets using AEB mode tends to be slow** and I wonder if that is because it is merging the brackets together as previews in the software. It would be a game-changer if you could capture the brackets and disable any kind of processing it does afterwards. All us photographers need are the RAW files.

These are just a few suggestions that came to mind when using the [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) intensely over the last 3 months. They seem like quick wins that bring a lot of quality-of-life improvement.[image_with_animation image_url=”1174552″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*This summer I have been able to visit some bucket list locations and I was very happy to have such a powerhouse at my disposal to capture them.*

[image_with_animation image_url=”1174574″ image_size=”full” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default”]

*[Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro) has proven itself in even the faintest of light and I can’t wait to use it when the darkness of winter is finally upon us again here in Iceland.*

## How Much Is The DJI Mavic 4 Pro, And Can You Buy It In The US?

Let’s get the money question out of the way. The Mavic 4 Pro starts at around $2,199 / €2,099 for the body with the DJI RC 2 controller. The Fly More Combo runs roughly $2,899 to $3,899 depending on whether you take the RC 2 or the brighter RC Pro 2, once you factor in the extra batteries, charging hub and bag. For paid stills work, I think the Fly More Combo earns its keep on the batteries alone.

The trickier question is whether you can even buy one. In the US, DJI still hasn’t officially launched the Mavic 4 Pro. It’s FCC-authorised and you’ll find imported stock at some retailers, but it comes with no official DJI US warranty and can have region-locked firmware. I wouldn’t gamble on one. The FCC rule that takes effect on 13 October 2026 only blocks new approvals for drones with DJI parts inside, so it changes nothing for the Mavic 4 Pro. I have written up what is going on, and what I would buy instead, in my piece on [the DJI US ban](https://jvn.photo/dji-ban-united-states/).

Most of my Mavic 4 Pro images are shot here in Iceland. If you are bringing one over, read up on [Iceland’s drone laws](https://jvn.photo/drone-flying-in-iceland-all-you-need-to-know-in-2026/) before you travel, because registration and the seasonal nesting rules catch a lot of visitors out.

## DJI Mavic 4 Pro Price And Which Combo To Buy

So which combo is actually worth it? For casual use, the standard body covers most of what you need. For paid or multi-day work, I would go straight for the Fly More Combo, the extra batteries alone make it worthwhile once you are away from mains power for a week, which is normal on an Icelandic shoot. Budget for proper storage too, I use [the f-stop Drone Case XL](https://jvn.photo/organising-your-dji-mavic-4-pro-with-the-f-stop-drone-case-xl/) to keep mine organised in the field. If even the standard price feels steep, [my roundup of more affordable drones](https://jvn.photo/best-drone-photography-2026/) is worth a look first.

## Mavic 4 Pro Is A Photography Beast

As you can probably tell, I am a very happy photographer with my [Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro). It isn’t the best camera I own but it can do something that all my other cameras can’t: fly & shoot from any angle I can think of. That makes it the best camera I own for its purpose. Even though there are a few shortcomings, **there is currently no better prosumer drone on the market for photographers**.

Compared to the Mavic 3 Pro, the Mavic 4 Pro handles Icelandic wind better thanks to a stiffer frame and improved gimbal stabilisation, which matters when you fly hours per day in coastal conditions.

## Compare The RAW Files Of Mavic 3 Pro With Mavic 4 Pro

I have now also published [a new blog containing my findings when comparing the RAW files of Mavic 4 Pro & Mavic 3 Pro](https://jvn.photo/mavic4-vs-mavic3-raw-files/). You can download the files yourself and check them out!

## DJI Mavic 4 Pro Specifications (Compared To The Mavic 3 Pro, Mini 5 Pro And Air 3S)

I have flown all four drones in the table below extensively. The Mavic 4 Pro sits at the top for image quality and commercial work, [the Mavic 3 Pro is still a brilliant hybrid stills and video tool](https://jvn.photo/review-dji-mavic-3-pro-after-6-months-of-use/), [the Mini 5 Pro is the one I reach for on travel](https://jvn.photo/dji-mini-5-pro-review-should-you-get-one-for-drone-photography/), and the Air 3S is the sweet-spot all-rounder for anyone not paying their bills with a drone.[align-center]Specification,[align-center]DJI Mavic 4 Pro,[align-center]DJI Mavic 3 Pro,[align-center]DJI Mini 5 Pro,[align-center]DJI Air 3S|Main Sensor,4/3 Hasselblad CMOS,4/3 Hasselblad CMOS,1-inch CMOS,1-inch CMOS|Effective Pixels,25 MP,20 MP,12.5 MP,12.5 MP|Aperture,f/2.0 to f/11 variable,f/2.8 to f/11 variable,f/1.8 fixed,f/1.8 fixed|ISO Range (Photo),100 to 25600,100 to 12800,100 to 25600,100 to 12800|Max Video,6K 60p,5.1K 50p,4K 120p,4K 100p|Weight,1063 g,958 g,249 g,724 g|Max Flight Time,51 min,43 min,36 min,45 min|Wind Resistance,12 m/s,12 m/s,10.7 m/s,12 m/s|Best For,Commercial and prints,Hybrid photo/video,Travel and regulations,All-rounder enthusiastA full list of all the specifications can be found [on DJI’s website](https://www.dji.com/mavic-4-pro/specs). If you are weighing it up against other options, I compare every [drone camera worth buying](https://jvn.photo/best-drone-photography-2026/) in one guide.

## Affordable Alternatives

If you are looking at alternatives to the [DJI Mavic 4 Pro](https://jvn.photo/go/djimavic4pro), **I can point you into the direction of [my updated guide to the best drones for photography](https://jvn.photo/best-drone-photography-2026/)**. If you are considering upgrading from an older model, you may also be able to get some great deals on second-hand Mavic 3 series drones or others.

Compared to the Mini 5 Pro, the Mavic 4 Pro is heavier and falls outside the C0 regulatory class, but it offers the Hasselblad colour science and three native focal lengths that the Mini cannot match.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Worth The Price For Photography?

For me, yes. After flying it over 2000 kilometres and capturing close to 40000 images, the Mavic 4 Pro has earned its price tag through genuine improvements that matter to a working photographer: the 100 MP main sensor, the dramatically improved tele camera, the longer battery life, and the infinity gimbal rotation. If you make a living with your photography or treat it as a serious pursuit, it is the best drone for the job today.

### What Are The Main Drawbacks Of The Mavic 4 Pro?

The biggest one is the size and weight, which puts it firmly in the regulated category in most countries and means you cannot just throw it in a backpack the way you can with a Mini. The DJI Fly app integration also still has some rough edges, and the cost of the Fly More Combo and accessories adds up quickly.

### Is The Mavic 4 Pro Better Than The DJI Air 3S For Photography?

For photography specifically, yes. The Air 3S is a brilliant drone for what it is, but the Mavic 4 Pro’s 4/3 sensor with 100 MP resolution and Hasselblad colour science is in a different league when it comes to image quality, dynamic range, and editing flexibility. The Air 3S still has the edge on portability and price.

### Does The Mavic 4 Pro Need ND Filters?

For video, yes, you will want them. For photography, the variable aperture from f/2.0 to f/11 covers most situations without needing physical filters, which is one of the underrated strengths of the platform. I wrote a separate piece on why I avoid ND-PL and CPL filters on the Mavic 4 Pro that goes into the reasoning.

### How Long Does The Mavic 4 Pro Battery Last In Real Conditions?

DJI quotes 51 minutes, but in real flying conditions with wind, cold weather, and active photography, I typically get between 35 and 42 minutes of usable flight time per battery. That is still a significant improvement over the Mavic 3 Pro and means I rarely need more than two batteries for a typical shoot.

### Is The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Illegal In The US?

No, owning and flying a DJI Mavic 4 Pro is not illegal in the US. DJI has simply chosen not to sell it there officially, most likely because of US-China trade and regulatory pressure rather than anything to do with the drone itself. If you already have one, you can keep flying it under the usual FAA rules.

### Why Is The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Not Sold In The US?

DJI never launched the Mavic 4 Pro through its official US channels. It’s FCC-authorised, though, and you can buy imported units from US retailers such as B&H or from grey-market sellers online. Either way you get no official US warranty and, occasionally, region-locked firmware to watch out for. I cover the wider picture in [my breakdown of the DJI US ban](https://jvn.photo/dji-ban-united-states/).

### Is The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Overkill?

For most people, probably. Most photographers will get good use out of the DJI Air 3S. But if you want the best, you need the Mavic 4 Pro.**GET 30% DISCOUNT NOW!**

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In **125 detailed pages** I explore everything you need to know to start creating the best photographs using any type of drone. Whether you are a complete beginner or an advanced drone pilot, this e-book contains a vast amount of information to level up your drone photography skills.[image_with_animation image_url=”793617″ image_size=”large” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” img_link=”https://jvn.photo/all-products/nature-drone-photography-ebook/”]

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