Short answer: Yes, selfie sticks and drones may damage your phone. The mounts and attachments can scratch the exterior of your phone. And if not attached correctly, the phone will slip and fall. However, trying to hold the phone or camera with just your arm can be just as, if not more cumbersome. You could drop it while holding your phone in your hands. Ultimately, use whatever method you feel comfortable with and, when in doubt, have a sure-handed friend be your biological camera stand.