Aerial photography is a beautiful form of photography offering stunning images we cannot see in our everyday lives but it is also very difficult.
This art form has fascinated photographers since it was invented in the 19th century and has developed in line with technological advances for use in producing maps, film-making, environmental studies, surveillance and commercial imagery.
Many people try to capture aerial photographs as they fly to holiday destinations or over their home in private aircraft but the quality is often hampered by the fact the shot is taken through glass which adds reflections. An example of a holiday destination aerial photograph without reflection is this image of Caenarfon Castle in Wales.
The best aerial photography comes from small aircraft; planes or helicopters which fly slower than commercial aircraft and where windows can be opened. Helicopters are preferable as they can hover lower to the ground than a fixed wing craft and early morning or late night offers the best light to capture your images.
A stabilizer can be used to prevent vibrations interfering with aerial photography but the best advice is to use the fastest shutter speed on your camera to avoid blurring. A professional zoom will allow more light into the camera, the lens can be used at faster shutter speeds and your images will be sharper. Below is an example of a sharp image taken at not such great height!
Rely on your pilot to advise when visibility is at its best and take plenty of shots you might never see your subject matter from this angle again and the more images you have when you get back on terra firma, the more choice you have to select your perfect aerial photograph.
