Aerial Photographers

Capturing views and scenes that cannot be seen from the ground, aerial photographers open up a whole new angle with which to view the world. Offering spectacular views, aerial photography is often the best way to capture a landscape, building or event. Aerial photography can also be very useful for building developers or city planners as it allows them to see the bigger picture.

Aerial photography cameras can be mounted on a stand or be held in the hand. The decision of choosing a photographer who uses a plane or helicopter should be based on the landscape. If shooting a subject in an open area a plane can be used. However it should be kept in mind that planes cannot fly below a certain altitude or speed. This means they are not as maneuverable as a helicopter. Helicopters allow much more control and can even be made to hover.

Like with other forms of photography there are many settings to consider before getting the perfect photograph. Aerial photos add the challenge of vibration and movement of the plane or helicopter. To ensure that motion blur is minimized in pictures an aerial photographer may:

• Pick a high shutter speed
• Increase the ISO settings to allow for faster shutter speed in low light
• Use a lens or camera with image stabilization to reduce blur
• Use a gyro mount

Time of day should also be considered when taking aerial photographs. The best times are either in the beginning or ending sunlight hours. The warm tones and angle of the sun creates shadows that give more depth to the photographs.

Things to Consider:

Before hiring an aerial photographer it is important to think about the following:

• View the subject or location at multiple times during the day to pick a time with the best light
• Study the location and make a list of the angles you would like to capture
• Inquire if the professional is associated with institutions like the Professional Aerial Photographers Association International
• Ask to see a portfolio to ensure the photographer has experience shooting the type of subjects you want