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Tips for photographing an air show
By aerotech news staff
The excitement and thrills of air show aerobatics and precision flying may encourage you to try capturing those moments for your- self. Photographing an air show presents unique challenges and opportunities for both amateur and professional photographers.
Although these ideas are mostly for digital single lens reflex cameras, some of them you can use with your smartphone. Today’s smartphone cameras are becoming increasing more complex, and there are lots of tutorials on YouTube and websites to help you become an expert.
To capture dynamic images of aircraft in action, consider the following tips:
1. Equipment selection
• Camera and Lenses: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with high-speed continuous shooting capabilities is ideal. Equip yourself with two zoom lenses to cover a broad focal range, such as a 24-70mm for static displays and a 100-400mm for aerial shots. If possible, use two camera bodies to avoid lens changes during the event. At moneymakerphotography.com, find out how to carry equipment on your person, since many air shows forbid large bags and backpacks
• Accessories: Carry extra memory cards and fully charged batteries, as you’ll likely take numerous shots. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on aircraft surfaces. Carry accessories in plastic storage bags and keep them handy in your pockets.
2. Camera settings
• Shooting Mode: Aperture Priority mode allows control over depth of field while the camera adjusts shutter speed accordingly. Start with an aperture around f/8 to balance sharpness and exposure. This article from a public affairs photographer can be found at 127wg.ang.af.mil
• Shutter Speed: For fast-moving jets, use a shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze motion. For propeller-driven planes, slower speeds like 1/250s can capture propeller blur, conveying
U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kristine Legate
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Vaughn Weber, 355th Wing Staff public affairs journeyman, takes photos during the 2023 Thunder and Lightning Over Arizona Air Show at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., March 26, 2023.
motion. There are more suggestions on speeds and settings at kenrockwell.com
• ISO Settings: Keep ISO as low as possible (e.g., ISO 100) to minimize noise, adjusting higher only if necessary due to lighting conditions.
3. shooting techniques
• Stance and Grip: Hold your camera firmly with your right hand and support the lens from underneath with your left. Keep your elbows close to your body and swivel from the waist to follow moving aircraft smoothly. For more tips on this aspect of aviation photography, go to shootsmart.co.uk
• Panning: To capture sharp images of moving aircraft, prac- tice panning—moving the camera in sync with the subject’s motion. This technique requires practice to master but can yield dramatic results.
4. Planning and Positioning
• Arrive Early: Early arrival provides time to scout the venue, identify optimal shooting locations, and capture static displays without crowds.
• Positioning: While show center offers direct views, position- ing yourself at the ends of the flight line can provide unique angles, especially during aircraft turns. Also, the ends will be less crowded, according to bhphotovideo.com
5. Weather Considerations
• Prepare for Conditions: Check weather forecasts and prepare accordingly. Overcast skies can add drama to photos, while clear skies offer bright, crisp images.
• Protective Gear: Bring rain covers for your equipment and dress appropriately for the weather to ensure comfort throughout the event. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are necessary for everyone at an air show, not just photographers.
6. safety and Etiquette
• Follow Guidelines: Adhere to all safety instructions and respect restricted areas. A military base is no place to be tres- passing. It not only endangers you but can also disrupt the event.
• Be Considerate: Be mindful of other spectators and pho- tographers. Avoid obstructing views and be courteous when navigating crowded areas.
7. Post-Processing
• Review and Edit: After the event, review your images and select the best shots. Use photo editing software to adjust expo- sure, contrast, and cropping as needed.
By following these tips and practicing your skills, you can make compelling images that capture the excitement and grandeur of air shows.
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