How to Photograph a City From a Helicopter

Cityscape Photography  •  Photography Tips

Whether you’re an experienced photographer or a novice eager to try something new, these tips can help you achieve stunning aerial shots of urban landscapes.

1. Choose the Right Time of Day: Lighting is a crucial element in photography, and it’s no different when you’re shooting from a helicopter. Early morning or late afternoon, known as the golden hours, can provide soft, warm lighting and long shadows that add depth to your photos. Alternatively, nighttime flights can capture the city’s lights and energy, but require different settings and considerations.

2. Plan Your Flight Path: Before you take off, discuss your route with the pilot. Identify specific landmarks or areas you want to capture. Understanding the flight path allows you to anticipate shots and be ready when the moment comes.

3. Use the Right Equipment: Due to the vibration and movement of the helicopter, a fast shutter speed is essential to avoid blurry images. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with vibration reduction or image stabilization lenses can be very beneficial. A wide-angle lens is typically preferred to capture expansive cityscapes.

4. Camera Settings: Set your camera to a high shutter speed (at least 1/1000 sec or faster) to counteract the movement of the helicopter and any wind-induced vibrations. An aperture of around f/5.6 can provide a good depth of field while allowing enough light. ISO settings may need to be adjusted depending on the time of day and lighting conditions.

5. Secure Yourself and Your Gear: Safety first! Make sure you and your camera gear are securely strapped in. Dropping anything out of a helicopter is dangerous and could lead to significant liability.

6. Communicate with the Pilot: The pilot can be your best ally in getting great shots. Communicate your needs, but also be open to their suggestions. They might know of unique vantage points or times when the city looks its best.

7. Experiment with Angles and Composition: Aerial photography offers a chance to play with different perspectives. Try capturing both wide cityscapes and more focused shots of distinctive landmarks. Consider the rule of thirds for composition to create more engaging images.

8. Shoot in RAW: Shooting in RAW format preserves all the image data captured by your camera sensor. This gives you much more flexibility when it comes to post-processing, allowing you to adjust exposure, white balance, and other settings without loss of quality.

9. Post-Processing: Even the best shots can benefit from some post-processing. Adjusting the contrast, sharpness, and color balance can help your photos pop. Software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop can be invaluable in this process.

10. Respect Privacy and Regulations: Be aware of local laws regarding aerial photography. Some areas may have restrictions on photographing certain buildings or structures. Always prioritize privacy and legal considerations in your photography endeavors.

Photographing a city from a helicopter is an exhilarating experience that can yield incredible images. With the right preparation, equipment, and mindset, you can capture the essence of a city from a unique aerial perspective. Happy shooting!