I have a micro sized quad copter from sharper image. They are a lot of fun for sure, I'm thinking about getting a bigger one with a camera. I've never been too concerned with smooth landings, as long as it doesn't bounce lol. Most important is getting the controls trimmed out. So that if you let go of everything it should hover in place more or less. Then try to maintain consistent vertical rates of speed. Slowly descending or ascending without accelerating.
Also, mine has headless mode, but I find it just muddies the water for me, so I leave it off.