If everything goes as planned without any unforeseen hitches, I’m leaning strongly toward purchasing the Mavic 3 Pro. After reviewing its performance specs, it aligns perfectly with my needs. The one area where I hesitate is whether D-Log and D-Log M look noticeably different at first glance—and more importantly, does this distinction make a significant impact in real-world use?

The Mavic 3 Pro’s 3x and 7x lenses come equipped with D-Log M instead of the full D-Log found on the main camera. This raises the question: will DJI eventually release firmware updates to bring D-Log functionality to these two lenses? If not, can they still deliver satisfactory results? Specifically, how well does D-Log M perform in low-light or nighttime shooting scenarios?

As a photography enthusiast, my primary motivation for investing in new gear is personal enjoyment. My main setup consists of an A7M4 with HLG2 video profiles, complemented by a DJI action camera using D-Cinelike. Both devices utilize 10-bit H.265 encoding, offering ample room for color grading while remaining user-friendly. Thankfully, my computer handles these tasks smoothly, making post-production a breeze.
Of course, growth is inevitable, and I aspire to delve deeper into Log and Cine workflows in the future. To achieve this, I need a drone—not just as a learning tool but also as a way to expand my creative content and enjoy the thrill of flight. After exploring DJI’s lineup, the Mavic 3 Pro stood out as particularly appealing.
Its optical capabilities surpass all other consumer-grade drones currently available, and the recent price drop, combined with a year of DJI Care coverage, makes it even more enticing.
When comparing it to the Mavic 3S:
– The Mavic 3 Pro boasts a Hasselblad-tuned color profile and a larger 4/3-inch sensor for superior image quality.
– It also features a versatile 7x zoom lens, a feature absent in the Mavic 3S.
On the other hand, here’s why I’m passing on the Mavic 4:
– While the Mavic 4 represents an incremental upgrade over the Mavic 3, its standout feature—lossless vertical shooting—isn’t essential for me. I plan to invest in a mini series down the line, which will cover my vertical shooting needs.
– Additionally, DJI seems to be repositioning its product lines.
Performance from older Mavic models is now trickling down to the Air and even mini series, pushing the Mavic line closer to the Inspire series in terms of capability and pricing. Meanwhile, the Mavic 4 Pro controller reportedly includes a 7-inch screen, but let’s reserve judgment until after its official launch.
– Lastly, I simply can’t get past the design of the Mavic 4 Pro—it just doesn’t resonate with me aesthetically [laughing through tears]. Some might call it “cockroach-inspired” [shuddering].