If you haven’t seen an air show before, you won’t know how cool it is to watch the aircraft fly fast up in the sky and doing those amazing stunts. Taking photographs of these airplanes, however, is not easy. Here are some tips to capture photos in an air show.
Scouting
You should do some scouting. Before the actual show, the pilots do practice flights. So, you can sneak in during the official dress rehearsal.
This will allow you to see their performance. You can get a good view of the air space and the plane that is going to be flying. You can take a mental note of everything and plan accordingly.
Consider the details
You shouldn’t only focus on capturing the photos of the aircraft but also consider the other details within the view. For example, a bird flying beside the plane, or the trees overlooking the venue. You can also take pictures of the crowd. You should study the lights and angles and try to take creative and engaging photos.
Location
Your focus should be on the show centre that is close to the flight line. However, other people will also choose this location for taking photographs. If it gets crowded, it will be difficult for you to take photographs.
Towards the end of the flight line, there won’t be many people and that can be the perfect place to take photographs. You can get unique views from here.
Weather
Weather is an important element to consider when taking photos. At air shows, clouds and bald skies are good. However, you should also be prepared to take photographs in other weather conditions.
Light
If you have the proper lighting, your photographs will turn out to be good. Air shows happen mostly when the light is not good. However, if you can come before the show or stay after the show, then you can take some good shots.
Camera
Though you can use any type of camera to take photographs, you should use a modern DSLR camera. They have autofocus capabilities and can help you in taking great photographs. You can use a long lens to take photos of the aircraft. A wide-angle lens can capture aircraft up close.
You should plan on how to take the photographs on that day. Be comfortable and hydrated so that you can focus on your photography.