Page 29 - Australian Photography - September 2017

PHOTO TIPS: AMA Z ING AER IALS

typically used. This information also aided the lens selec-
tion process. I compiled my research and created a shot
list, which comprised of 14 different images I wanted to
capture. Within each shot, I used multiple reference imag-
es and wrote a brief description to illustrate what I was try-
ing to achieve. Just prior to my flight, I had a briefing with
my pilot and this is where I discussed my plan in detail.
Being able to convey and clearly explain your plan to
your pilot is going to be the difference between your flight
being a success or not, so make sure you take the time to
thoroughly plan your flight and prepare a shot list.

8 IF YOU DON’T OWN IT, RENT IT!

I use rental companies when I need a
specific lens or camera which I do not
own. Often the cost to rent is very afford-
able and if it is not a piece of equipment
which you need regularly, it can be eco-
nomical. Aerial photography is unfor-
tunately a very expensive activity and is
something few are able to do on a regular
basis. In order to make the most of your
opportunity, you are better off paying
more money and using the best equipment available.
Instead of using my Sony a7 II, I hired two Sony a7R
II camera bodies. The 42-megapixel sensor not only
provides the opportunity to print large-format images
with plenty of room to crop but it also produces clean-
er images at higher ISOs with greater dynamic range.
Overall, I am glad that I made the decision to hire as I
would not have been able to achieve the same results
had I made do with what I owned.

ABOVE: While we were flying back from the Statue of Liberty,
I took this opportunity to capture the interior of the helicopter.
By shooting with the 35mm lens wide open, I was able to turn
Manhattan’s city lights into smooth bokeh balls, while keeping the
dials on the dashboard sharp. Sony a7R II, Sony Distagon T* FE
35mm f/1.4 ZA lens @ 35mm, 1/250s @ f/1.4, ISO 2500.
LEFT: I captured this image while I was photographing the
Washington Bridge in the lower left hand corner. In order to take a
photo facing directly down without getting the landing gear in your
image, the pilot has to bank the helicopter. This photo was taken
while the pilot was straightening the helicopter which is why the
horizon is so tilted. It really pays to always be on the lookout and to
never stop shooting. Sony a7R II, Sony Distagon T* FE 35mm f/1.4
ZA lens @ 35mm, 1/100s @ f/1.4, ISO 6400.