Hey guys! Ready to take your Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 experience to the next level? One of the coolest features of MSFS 2020 is the drone camera, also known as the showcase camera. It lets you break free from the cockpit and capture stunning aerial views of your aircraft and the beautiful scenery below. But let’s face it, figuring out the drone camera controls can be a bit tricky at first. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you master the MSFS 2020 drone camera controls and unleash your inner virtual photographer!

Understanding the Basics of MSFS 2020 Drone Camera Controls

First things first, let's get familiar with the fundamental controls. By default, the drone camera is activated by pressing the Insert key on your keyboard. Once activated, you'll notice a new set of controls become available. These controls allow you to maneuver the drone camera around your aircraft and the environment. Here’s a breakdown of the key controls you'll need to know:

• Movement: The numeric keypad is your best friend here. The 8, 2, 4, and 6 keys control forward, backward, left, and right movement, respectively. Think of it like driving a virtual drone! You can also use the arrow keys if you prefer, but the numeric keypad offers more precise control.
• Altitude: Want to go higher or lower? The 9 key raises the drone camera, while the 3 key lowers it. Experiment with different altitudes to find the perfect perspective for your shots.
• Speed: Adjusting the drone camera's speed is crucial for capturing smooth, cinematic shots. By default, the + key increases the speed, and the - key decreases it. Start with a slow speed for precise movements and gradually increase it for faster transitions.
• Focus: The F key toggles the focus mode. In focus mode, the drone camera will automatically focus on your aircraft, keeping it sharp and in focus. This is especially useful for capturing close-up shots of your plane in action.
• Rotation: The 5 key resets the camera rotation. When you use the mouse, the mouse is used to rotate the camera around the focal point, allowing you to pan and tilt the view. The Mouse Wheel is used to zoom in and out.
• Reset: If you ever get lost or disoriented, the End key resets the drone camera to its default position behind your aircraft. This is a handy shortcut to quickly regain your bearings.

Mastering Advanced Drone Camera Techniques

Okay, now that you've got the basics down, let's dive into some advanced techniques that will really elevate your MSFS 2020 drone camera skills. These techniques will help you capture stunning, cinematic shots that will impress your friends and fellow virtual pilots.

Smooth Camera Movements

One of the biggest challenges with the drone camera is achieving smooth, fluid movements. Jerky, erratic camera movements can ruin an otherwise great shot. Here are a few tips to help you smooth things out:

• Use a slow speed: As mentioned earlier, starting with a slow drone camera speed is essential for smooth movements. This gives you more control over the camera and allows you to make subtle adjustments as needed.
• Practice gradual transitions: Avoid sudden, abrupt changes in direction or altitude. Instead, try to make gradual transitions, easing into each movement. This will create a more natural and cinematic feel.
• Use a controller: While the keyboard and mouse are perfectly adequate for basic drone camera control, a controller can offer a more nuanced and intuitive experience. The analog sticks provide precise control over movement and rotation, making it easier to achieve smooth, fluid camera movements.

Creative Camera Angles

Don't be afraid to experiment with different camera angles to find unique and interesting perspectives. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Low-angle shots: Position the drone camera low to the ground and angle it upwards to make your aircraft look larger and more imposing. This is a great way to emphasize the power and majesty of your plane.
• High-angle shots: Position the drone camera high above your aircraft and angle it downwards to capture a bird's-eye view of the scenery below. This is a great way to showcase the beauty and scale of the environment.
• Tracking shots: Position the drone camera to follow your aircraft as it flies through the air. This is a classic cinematic technique that can create a sense of speed and excitement.

Utilizing Depth of Field

Depth of field is a powerful tool that can add a sense of realism and drama to your drone camera shots. By adjusting the depth of field, you can control which parts of the image are in focus and which parts are blurred. This can be used to draw attention to specific elements in the scene and create a sense of depth and perspective.

To adjust the depth of field in MSFS 2020, use the Insert key to enable and disable it. Experiment with different settings to see how they affect the look and feel of your shots. A shallow depth of field (where only a small portion of the image is in focus) can be used to isolate your aircraft from the background, while a deep depth of field (where everything is in focus) can be used to capture the entire scene in sharp detail.

Capturing Stunning Scenery

Of course, the drone camera isn't just for capturing shots of your aircraft. It's also a fantastic tool for exploring the stunning scenery of MSFS 2020. Use the drone camera to fly around and discover hidden gems, capture breathtaking landscapes, and create your own virtual postcards.

When capturing scenery, pay attention to the lighting and weather conditions. The time of day and the presence of clouds can have a dramatic impact on the look and feel of your shots. Experiment with different settings to find the perfect combination for your vision.

Optimizing Your MSFS 2020 Settings for Drone Camera Use

To get the most out of your MSFS 2020 drone camera experience, it's important to optimize your settings. Here are a few key settings to consider:

• Graphics settings: Higher graphics settings will result in more detailed and realistic visuals, but they can also impact performance. Experiment with different settings to find a balance between visual quality and frame rate.
• Traffic settings: AI traffic can add realism to your drone camera shots, but it can also impact performance. If you're experiencing performance issues, try reducing the amount of AI traffic.
• Weather settings: Realistic weather effects can add drama and atmosphere to your drone camera shots. However, heavy weather can also impact performance. Adjust the weather settings to your liking, but be mindful of the impact on performance.

Tips and Tricks for MSFS 2020 Drone Camera Mastery

Alright, guys, let’s wrap things up with some bonus tips and tricks that will help you become a true MSFS 2020 drone camera master!

• Use external tools: There are a number of external tools and add-ons available that can enhance your MSFS 2020 drone camera experience. These tools can provide features such as advanced camera controls, cinematic camera movements, and automated shot creation.
• Practice, practice, practice: Like any skill, mastering the MSFS 2020 drone camera takes practice. Don't be afraid to experiment, try new things, and learn from your mistakes. The more you practice, the better you'll become.
• Share your creations: Once you've captured some stunning drone camera shots, don't be afraid to share them with the world! Post them on social media, upload them to YouTube, or share them with your friends and fellow virtual pilots. Your creations might just inspire others to explore the world of MSFS 2020 drone camera photography.

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to mastering the MSFS 2020 drone camera controls. With a little practice and experimentation, you'll be capturing stunning aerial views in no time. Happy flying, and happy shooting!

Remember: Experiment, Have fun, and Share your amazing creations with the community! You've got this!