RC Airplanes With Cameras: Recording, FPV and Choosing a Camera
There are three ways to get a camera on an RC plane. Some ready-to-fly planes come with a built-in camera that records to a memory card. You can mount a small action camera or a light “keychain” camera on almost any plane to record flights. And FPV (first-person view) planes carry a camera and video transmitter so you see a live picture in goggles or on a screen. The keys are keeping the weight low, mounting the camera firmly but with vibration damping, and staying within the rules.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Options
| Option | What you get | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in camera plane | Recording, simple | Included |
| Keychain / micro camera | Light recording | About 10–30 g |
| Action camera | High-quality, stabilised video | About 30–150 g |
| Analog FPV | Live low-latency video | Light |
| Digital FPV | Live HD video, often with recording | Heavier, more power |
Weights are typical ranges; check your specific equipment.
Mounting a camera
- Choose a spot with a clear view: on top of the wing, under the fuselage, or in the nose.
- Keep it near the CG so balance doesn’t change much; re-check CG afterwards.
- Use a firm mount with a thin layer of foam or rubber for vibration damping.
- Secure it with a strap or tether so it can’t fall off.
- Angle it slightly down for level-flight footage.
Weight and performance
Adding a camera increases wing loading, so the plane flies faster and lands harder. Small planes are especially sensitive; a 100 g action camera on a 400 g foamy changes it a lot. Choose the lightest camera that gives the footage you want. Weight also affects regulations: many countries have simpler rules below 250 g take-off weight.
FPV planes
FPV planes are designed around a camera, video transmitter and often a GPS flight controller with return-to-home. Small wings like the Heewing F-01 and efficient platforms for long flights, compared in best long-range FPV planes, are popular. FPV flying usually requires a spotter who keeps the plane in sight.
Getting good footage
- Fly smoothly; gentle turns look best on video.
- Use 60 fps or higher and stabilisation if available.
- Film in the morning or late afternoon for softer light.
- Keep the prop out of the frame to avoid “jello” and flicker.
- Check footage after the first flight and adjust the angle.
Rules and privacy
Camera flights bring privacy responsibilities. Avoid filming people and private property without permission, follow local rules on flying over people, and remember that FPV goggles usually require a visual observer. Rules differ by country; check your aviation authority’s guidance.
Choosing a camera
For simple recording on small planes, a keychain or micro camera is light and cheap, though image quality is basic. Action cameras give sharp, stabilised video and are worth it on planes that can carry the weight. For FPV, analog cameras have very low latency, while digital systems offer much clearer live video and often record HD at the same time. Consider battery life, how the camera is powered, and how you’ll start and stop recording: some cameras can be triggered from a spare channel on the radio.
Powering the camera
Action cameras usually run on their own batteries. FPV cameras and transmitters are powered from the flight battery through a regulator; check voltage ratings before connecting anything.
FAQ
Can I put a GoPro on an RC plane?
Yes, on planes big enough to carry the weight, with a secure mount.
What’s the lightest camera option?
Keychain or micro FPV cameras.
What is FPV?
Flying with a live camera view in goggles or on a screen.
Does a camera affect flight?
Yes, extra weight raises speed and stall speed.
More on this topic: the complete RC Airplanes guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
