OVERCOME THE CHALLENGES

There’s plenty to take into account if you want to capture stunning aerial images

Aerial photography is both a gift and a challenge. You can’t deny the incredible beauty of the world from above, the thrill of capturing the buzz of a city, or the wonder of stumbling upon the kind of secret landscapes that are only visible from the air. It’s often simultaneously gratifying and humbling to focus on the kind of subjects we might take for granted in our everyday life.

Nonetheless, with all this inspiration around, achieving the crisp, clear images that your clients are after can be quite testing at times.

After specialising in aerial photography for more than 20 years, you get very used to some of the difficulties. For example, working conditions are cramped and very noisy.

The door of the helicopter has to come off, and you have to shout through your headset to direct the pilot. When it is cold on the ground, it is glacial in the sky.

In the UK, the weather is a constant challenge. Even on days that are beautifully sunny from the ground, visibility can be compromised up in the air and the landscape

can look very milky. Unfortunately, this can provoke confused calls from clients who question why you aren’t flying.

Over the next few pages, you’ll discover some of the most common pitfalls of aerial photography and how to come out of top, including how to prevent helicopter vibrations from affecting the sharpness of your images. You’ll also discover the kit you need, some helpful skills and techniques, and above all else how to keep yourself safe in the sky.

Before we get started, one quick note. Until a few years ago, the only way of getting into the sky was a manned aircraft, but these days many photographers offer a drone service. It’s worth stating that there are as many restrictions to drone use as there are to flying in a helicopter, although some people find them the perfect tool for certain jobs under 400ft. All the work here was shot from helicopters, so that’s the focus throughout.

Left LONDON AT DUSK A beautiful sunset over London, looking up the winding River thames past Wapping to tower Bridge, the Shard and the city of London. An amazing view featuring key elements and sights of the city

Below bottom SAFETY FIRST fully prep the aircraft before flying. take the door off, take the seat cushions out, check headsets are working, and make sure that the pilot thoroughly does their safety checks. Developing a rapport with the pilot is also key

Below middle IDEAL SHOOTING CONDITIONS Always check the weather and be prepared for the conditions. perfect conditions would be a clear, sunny day with good visibility. Light winds mean you won’t get thrown around the sky too much

Below top UP OVER CLAPHAM TRAIN STATION Before flying, explain in detail to the pilot what you want to do, and listen to their advice about what is and isn’t possible. this is essential to manage expectations, both yours and the clients’, and also to...