“Hi Everybody!!” I’m Tim and just joined the site a couple days ago and really enjoying reading and (hopefully) learning loads.
I’ve not yet got a drone, but have got my flier ID (operator ID will wait until I’ve ordered a drone). Looking at the Mavic Mini 2 possibly, but trying not to look too hard at the Air 2s, LOL!
Just doing plenty of research about it before parting with my hard-earned, might even see about taking the A2 CofC course before choosing a drone, I like to do as much reading/watching/learning as I can before actually getting into “doing” stuff.
Anyway, enough waffling, thanks for having me and for all the great content
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Hi @spuddevans and welcome to Grey Arrows 
You wont go far with either of your choices, the M2 will give you a lot more freedom though
Have you seen our members map? (Click the burger-menu in the top right) You may find some pilots living near you. Feel free to add yourself to the members map too 
We’re a well established club with many knowledgeable members so it’s very likely that any issues you come across will have been discussed here before. Our discussion forum has very powerful search features which should help you find what you need but if you get stuck you can post a new question in the #questions-and-answers category.
Looking for recommendations of places to fly? Check out our interactive map on Drone Scene - be sure to log in to gain access to the full suite of features and map layers:
And please feel free to add locations of your own too.
Please also take a moment to look at the Membership Levels section on our FAQ as we’re quite different to other clubs and you’ll be eligible for some rather exclusive club discounts as your membership level increases 
Welcome once again!
While you’re still researching your options, run a few scenarios through Good 2 Go:
It might help narrow your drone choices down a bit.
Welcome to Grey Arrows 
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Welcome Tim.
I’d recommend the mini 2 - gives you the best access to places to fly without taking any additional qualifications and is a very capable drone.
Enjoy the forum and ask as many questions as you need
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Thanks for the welcome guys 
I’ll definitely be making use of the search function and I’ve already spent some time on the Drone Scene map.
Tim
Greetings and welcome to the club.
I started out with a cheap drone that my sons bought me and it didnt take long for me to want to upgrade to a better drone and like you I had an eye on the Air 2s. However upon the recommendation of our fellow club members I bought a Mini2 and boy am I glad I did, Im having a blast with it. It takes a lot of worry of your shoulders when you fly the Mini2, with the bigger bird I was always fretting about being 150 meters away from buildings etc. So with the Mini2 you can concentrate more on flying and getting the best out of your surroundings.
So my recommendation is that you buy a Mini 2. 
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Welcome to GADC Tim. There are a few NI places already on Drone Scene and when you get your drone you can add more in your area for when I’m down that way 
. I got a Mini 2 for the freedom to fly in places where you can’t fly a bigger drone and can highly recommend it. Since I got it I’ve hardly fired up my Mavic 2 Pro. Most people I’ve encountered have been friendly and curious - I think it’s because they feel less intimidated by a small drone. You can always start with a Mini 2 and upgrade if you feel the need. Drone photography is a great hobby, you’ll enjoy it.
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Thanks guys.
That’s interesting that you use your Mini2 more than your 2Pro, I’m certainly moving more towards the Mini2, but the fun-funds don’t permit a purchase just yet, so I’m carrying on learning as much as I can.
Tim
For me it’s a straightforward choice - for visits to The Mournes etc. to get planned shots it would be the Mavic 2 Pro for the better quality, but, because the Mini 2 is so light and easily carried it’s easy to have with me at all times. I used to lug a Nikon D200 and zoom lenses around with me but now I like to travel light with a Panasonic Lumix. The difference in quality isn’t such that it’s noticeable on my website, so I only take the heavier kit if I need it, say for example, if I’m intending to use the photo for a big enlargement.
MA2 a good buy tbh. Not big money. There is also a FB & Discord called NIFPV you should join. Although predominantly a FPV group there are a few film makers and wing guys in there too for help.
I started with the MAVIC range and did the A2CofC and the usual CAAreg etc etc… but it all goes out the window tbh with FPV 