Modular image capture systems

A method comprising:

• connecting an image capture module, which includes an image sensor and an integrated mechanical stabilization system, to an aerial vehicle;
• flying the aerial vehicle with the image capture module attached to the aerial vehicle and capturing a first image with the image sensor while flying;
• disconnecting the image capture module from the aerial vehicle;
• connecting the image capture module to a handheld module, which includes a battery and an integrated display;
• and
• capturing a second image with the image sensor while the image capture module is attached to the handheld module and drawing power from the battery.

An image capture module comprising:

• an image sensor configured to capture images;
• a mechanical stabilization system, including gimbals and motors, that is integrated with the image sensor in the image capture module and configured to control an orientation of the image sensor;
• and
• a connector configured to interchangeably connect the mechanical stabilization system to an aerial vehicle in a first usage scenario and a handheld module in a second usage scenario, wherein a gimbal of the mechanical stabilization system is substantially flush with a surface of the connector.