Aerial Photography
One type of photography that is of interest to a
wide number of people, agencies and governments is aerial photography.
This skill includes the shooting and developing of aerial photographs
either from a plane, balloon or other device. Current technology even
allows aerial photography from very high altitudes by remote control.
Satellite photography is a method of remote control aerial photography
used by governments for various reasons and security purposes.
Most people use aerial photography to be able to
see images of their property, the country or even their town from the
sky. Landscapers, surveyors and even construction and development
companies use aerial photography as a way of understanding various land
formations and changes in the terrain.
Tips for aerial photography
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Aerial photography is an expensive process and
therefore it is important to be able to get good, high quality aerial
photographs the first time. To ensure high quality pictures consider
the following:
- Weather – the day should be clear and
free from cloud cover, rain, fog or mist. This often means that aerial
photographs should be taken in the mid to late afternoon part of the
day. Fog cover or dust blowing at ground level will cause images to be
fuzzy or cloudy looking, even if conditions in the air are clear.
- Lighting – depending on the position
of the sun, shadows may be a factor in aerial photography if there are
large land formations or even tall trees in the area that is being
photographed. Again, early to mid afternoon is usually the most
opportune time for aerial photography with regards to light, as the sun
is directly above in the sky and there will be few shadows. Early
morning and late evening tend to produce the greatest chance for
shadows and dark images that are difficult to see.
- Shutter speed – since the camera is
moving relative to the ground, which is also rotating, it is important
to have a very fast shutter speed. Adjustable shutter speeds are good
if the photographer will be handling the camera but a remote control
option may make an automatic shutter a better option.
- Lenses – usually a wider lens is more
advantageous for aerial photography as it will capture a broader image.
Some lenses may be cumbersome for remote use or use if attached to an
external part of the plane or helicopter.
- Waterproofing – especially important
for remote picture taking, some weatherproofing on the camera will help
prolong the life of the camera and at the same time protect
photographs.
Aerial photography is usual done by professionals
but even amateur photographers can experiment with aerial photography
by using kites and remote control planes, rigging a camera to
the supports and choosing the right weather conditions.
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