yeah this has been bugging me for a while. i've got an Inspire 2 that i've kept in really good shape, both batteries are still healthy, X5S on it, and it's honestly never let me down on a job. but i keep seeing RFPs and production briefs that specifically ask about sensor size and raw capability and im starting to wonder if clients are just copy pasting specs they read somewhere or if the I2 is genuinely becoming a liability for high end work.

the X5S is a micro four thirds sensor which is fine for a lot of stuff but when someone says they want a cinematic shallow depth of field look from the air it is what it is. i dont have 10 grand sitting around to jump to an Inspire 3 right now and im trying to figure out if i should be honest with clients about the limitations or just keep shooting and let the work speak for itself. the footage still looks great to me honestly but i know im not the most objective person here.

the I2 with X5S is still a legit workhorse, dont let anyone tell you otherwise. mft sensor with the right glass in good light is still very competitive, the Olympus 45mm and the DJI 15mm both render beautifully. where it genuinely starts to show its age is low light and when a client specifically wants that full frame compression look, there's no faking that. but for corporate work, real estate at the higher end, travel content, documentary ? honestly still more than capable. ive seen I2 footage cut into productions alongside ALEXA material and it holds up fine with a good colorist.

if the clients asking about sensor size are the kind who will actually look at a spec sheet and know what they're looking at, that's one thing. if they're just copy pasting from something a consultant sent them, you can usually have a conversation about it. show them your reel and let them decide.

tbh the bigger issue i see with the I2 for paid work now isnt really the image quality its more the parts situation and DJI's support cycle. had a friend who cracked a motor arm on his I2 last spring and getting the replacement took like 6 weeks. on a job that's a disaster. just something to factor in if you're relying on it as your primary income tool.