A peek into the thrilling world of aerial photography at sunset

I love to shoot Aerial Images from a Helicopter. It has something exhilarating..some type of feeling free high up in the air, focused on just one thing: Getting a great Aerial shot that is sharp like hell and has a great composition!

What’s the tale behind this Aerial image?

Anticipating this mesmerizing shot of New York City began long before my ascent into the skies. Aerial photography, as exhilarating as it is, comes with a hefty price tag — renting a helicopter can soar beyond $1000 per hour. With such costs, missing a shot is simply not an option.

Preparation is key. Prior to takeoff, I delve into online resources like Google Maps or Apple Maps to meticulously scout my location. Sunrises and sunsets offer prime opportunities to set my work apart, and I rely on tools like The Photographer’s Ephemeris® for precise timings of celestial events throughout the year.

Typically, I pinpoint two or three crucial shots using 3D maps, committing their framing and characteristics to memory. This ensures that once airborne, I’m poised to capture these moments without hesitation. As the helicopter ascends, my focus sharpens — I am consumed by the singular goal of capturing the envisioned images.

Despite the door being open and my body partially suspended outside, tethered securely by a harness, any fear of heights is eclipsed by adrenaline and unwavering concentration. This particular photo, taken on the same day, was a result of earlier scouting.

Here’s a pro tip: While weather forecasts are invaluable, they can’t always predict conditions far in advance. That’s where weather insurance comes in handy. Flight operators like FlyNYON offer this option, ensuring a refund in case of unfavorable weather conditions.

Prior to liftoff, it’s essential to outline priorities and expectations during a briefing with the pilot, who will provide insights on feasible routes based on weather and regulations. Ensuring a fully charged battery and prepping camera settings beforehand are crucial technical aspects.

For doors-off flights, lens changes mid-flight are prohibited, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right equipment from the outset. Safety precautions are paramount, with the flight company meticulously securing all gear to the harness.

With most opting for digital cameras, the freedom to shoot abundantly comes at no additional cost. Therefore, the mantra remains: shoot, shoot, and shoot some more. In the haste of the flight, there’s no time to review images — save that for post-flight. Quick reflexes and a high shutter speed are imperative to combat motion blur, even if it means bumping up the ISO to minimize noise.

In the realm of aerial photography, meticulous preparation, unwavering focus, and a knack for adaptability are the keys to capturing that perfect shot.

Image by the Author taken with: Pentax 645 Z, Pentax 28mm, ISO 400, f 6.3, 1/500