Here at High Tide Aviation, we offer commercial flights for a variety of purposes, from scenic air tours to flight training. One of the most popular reasons why people reserve our flights is to do aerial photography, taking pictures of various locales from above. As with any other creative pursuit, aerial photography requires some practice to master, and there can be a challenging learning curve involved. Fortunately, our team is here to provide some expert tips on how to get the best results from your aerial photography.
- Use a Telephoto Zoom Lens. First, we recommend that you use a telephoto zoom lens for your camera in order to take high-quality aerial photographs. While many photographers would typically choose a wide-angle lens for landscape photography, they aren’t ideal for aerial photography because the distance between the aircraft and the ground is simply too much for a wide lens to handle. A telephoto lens, on the other hand, allows you to focus on subjects on the ground and catch every detail.
- Use High Shutter Speed. Another tip for great aerial photography is to use high shutter speed. If the shutter speed is too slow, your photos will end up with motion blur–after all, the aircraft could be moving at high speeds, and it will move a great deal even in the split second it takes for your camera shutter to open and shut. Maximizing your shutter speed will reduce and prevent motion blur to give you crisp, clean photos.
- Choice of Aircraft Matters. Lastly, make sure to research the aircraft before you use it for aerial photography. The specs of the aircraft and its windows will affect your ability to line up shots, so it’s best to familiarize yourself with the aircraft ahead of time. While the airplane is the more economical option, the helicopter offers better visibility and the ability to hold a position. In addition, make sure to work with your pilot to plan your angles of approach.