Which files are you allowed to upload?
Preferably use JPG/JPEG, TIFF/TIF or DNG for photos. For video, use MP4 or MOV. DroneStock creates a browser preview where necessary, but saves the supplied source file. PNG, WebP and HEIC can technically be read as a photo, but are not the preferred formats for sale; preferably convert it to a high-quality JPEG or TIFF before uploading.
Photo — allowed: JPG/JPEG, TIFF/TIF and DNG.
Video — allowed and recommended: MP4 and MOV.
Metadata — SRT only supplementary to the associated video.
Are you in doubt? Save the original and choose JPEG for a finished photo or MP4/MOV for video.
JPEG, TIFF and DNG
JPEG is compact and widely usable, TIFF can preserve high quality and DNG contains raw sensor data. A DNG needs a derived preview to be visible in browsers.
| Format | Allowed | Role | NB |
|---|---|---|---|
| JPG/JPEG | Yes — recommended | Finished photo and wide compatibility | Use a high-quality export and avoid repeated saves |
| TIFF/TIF | Yes | Finished file with a lot of image information | Larger file; check what the product page offers |
| DNG | Yes | RAW source file with editing space | The browser preview is derivative; the DNG remains the source file |
| MP4/MOV | Yes — recommended | Container for video and metadata | The codec partly determines quality and compatibility |
| SRT | Only as an attachment | Text file containing possible flight telemetry | Upload it next to the corresponding video; it is not sold independently |
MP4 and MOV are containers
The extension does not tell the whole quality. The container contains video encoded with a codec, plus technical information and sometimes audio.
H.264 and H.265
H.264 is widely supported. H.265/HEVC can provide comparable quality with smaller files, but is heavier to process.
SRT is part of the video
An SRT file of the same name can contain GPS, altitude, time and camera data. Upload it next to the video and check the recognized data.
A secure file workflow
Save the camera original and only then create working or preview versions.
Rename source files checked.
Save associated SRT files together.
Export not repeated with lossy compression.
Check what the buyer receives.
Sources and further reading
Check current information
Technical options and rules can change. Always consult the current source when in doubt.
Frequently asked questions
Short and clear
What file formats does DroneStock accept?
For photos, DroneStock accepts JPG/JPEG, TIFF/TIF and DNG. For video, MP4 and MOV are the recommended formats. You can only upload an SRT file in addition to a video.
Why don't I see DNG directly in my browser?
Browsers do not consistently support RAW. DroneStock therefore generates a derived preview, while preserving the original DNG file.
Does converting change the quality?
That's possible. In particular, repetitive exporting with lossy compression reduces quality.
Is a larger file always better?
No. Resolution, codec, bitrate, sharpness and real image information together determine usability.
Check before you upload.
Use the recording and metadata guidelines to submit completely.
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