Aerial photography is done from the air, usually from helicopters or small airplanes. Before, photographers who specialize in aerial photography often work for real estate, engineering, and architecture companies.
But things are different today. Aerial photos are highly in-demand in many industries such as corporate events and weddings. This is the reason why many people are investing in this business or honing their photography skills.
Hiring aerial photographers and videographers will cost more than the usual fees per hour. While some photographers charge $250 and up every hour, aerial photographers and videographers will cost more than that. Here are the skills and knowledge being demanded from photographers who specialize in aerial photos:
Education and training
Aerial photographers don’t exactly need formal academic training although some have college degrees in visual arts, design, communication, and fine arts. Many start their careers as assistants to experienced aerial photographers.
These “mentors” are the ones who teach their assistants the creative and technical aspects of the profession. You can attend short courses, seminars, and workshops that focus on specific aspects of aerial photography.
Aviation knowledge
While we use drones today to take aerial photos, there was a time when photographers and videographers would need to hire pilots who can fly them across the event or location they need to photograph.
If you are going to produce a big photo or video production, you still need to get in a small airplane or helicopter because drones are not equipped to compose the angle of photos and videos for big productions.
Even if the photographers don’t pilot, they must have some aviation knowledge, including an understanding of how planes operate and the limitations of taking photos in a moving aircraft.
Technological requirements
Photographers must have the skills, creativity, and an eye for composition. They must also be knowledgeable about the technical specifications of the equipment they are using. This knowledge must include know-how of camera lenses, lights, microphones, and other accessories that should be used for producing photos and videos.
And because some photographers find themselves in challenging conditions, they need the technical know-how of operating equipment that will create the best lighting and angle possible.
Post-production is another important aspect of photography and videography. They must have an understanding of digital photography and how to use photo-editing software. There are also photographers who still use film-based cameras. Those that do must know how to develop and process their photos.