Drone Mapping now accepts video files. If you fly a drone that captures only video by default, you can upload your footage directly — no photo mode required.
In this article:
Before you begin
Check the following before uploading:
- Both files required: Both a video file (MP4) and a subtitle file (SRT) are required to accurately georeference the model as the subtitle file contains GPS information. If you can’t find your SRT file, check that Video Subtitles is enabled in the DJI Fly app: go to Camera View > Settings > Video Subtitles. Note: some drone models provide the subtitles baked into the .MP4 file. In this case, having just the .MP4 will suffice because Aurora will autodetect the subtitles if they are baked in.
- Desktop or tablet only: Video upload is available on the desktop or tablet web version of Aurora. Mobile upload is not supported at this time.
Steps
- Open the project where you want to add drone data.
- Open the Drone Upload modal.
- Select Video Upload mode.
- Add your MP4 video file (and your subtitle file, if required). The upload won’t proceed if either data type is missing.
- Click Submit. Aurora starts processing automatically — it extracts frames from the video and uses the SRT file to georeference the model.
- Review your results. Accept the model to apply it to your design, or reject it and re-upload if the quality isn’t sufficient.
| Note: Processing typically completes in 15–20 minutes; allow up to 40 minutes for larger uploads. |
Result
Your model is ready in the standard Drone Mapping review interface. The output is identical to a photo-based upload — same quality and accuracy.
Limitations
Video upload doesn’t currently support:
- Video trimming or editing: Upload the full, unedited file. Partial or pre-edited clips aren’t supported.
- In-app flight guidance: Aurora doesn’t provide in-flight instructions. A 1–2 minute circular orbit at a consistent altitude — similar to a 20–40 photo grid flight — typically provides good coverage.
- Non-DJI drone support: Video formats and telemetry encodings from other manufacturers haven’t been verified.
- Mobile upload: Desktop web only.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need to upload both files?
The MP4 contains the visual imagery. The SRT contains GPS coordinates tied to each moment in the video. Without the SRT, Aurora can’t georeference the model.
Where do I find the SRT file?
It’s saved alongside the MP4 on your drone’s storage, with the same filename. If you can’t find it, enable Video Subtitles in the DJI Fly app under Camera View > Settings > Video Subtitles, then re-fly.
How long should my video be?
There’s no strict minimum. A 1–2 minute circular orbit at a consistent altitude — similar to a 20–40 photo grid flight — is a reliable starting point.
Is the model quality the same as with photos?
In most cases, yes. If your first upload doesn’t look right, contact Aurora support with your example.
Can I trim the video before uploading?
No. Upload the complete, unedited file. Partial uploads aren’t supported.
Does video upload cost the same as photo upload?
Yes. Video upload is included at no charge just like photo upload.