PictureCorrect.com: Airshow Preparation and Photography Tutorial

Airshows are a visual spectacle, showcasing the marvels of aviation, the skill of pilots, and the beauty of flight. For photographers, capturing these moments can be both challenging and rewarding. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for an airshow and capture stunning photographs.

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Photo captured by Richard R. Schünemann; 78mm, f/13.0, 1/1500s, ISO 200

Pre-Airshow Preparation:

• Research the Show: Before you head out, research the airshow. Know the schedule, the performers, and the types of aircraft that will be there. This will help you anticipate the action.
• Check the Weather: Weather can greatly affect your shots. Overcast skies can offer soft, diffused lighting, while sunny days can create harsh shadows. Plan your settings accordingly.

Attending an airshow requires more than just your camera gear. Given the outdoor nature of these events and the loud noise from the aircraft, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Here’s a quick packing list to ensure you have everything you need:

Camera Gear:

1. Camera: DSLR or mirrorless camera.
2. Lenses: Telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or 100-400mm) and a wide-angle lens.
3. Memory Cards: Multiple high-capacity cards.
4. Batteries: Spare batteries for your camera.
5. Tripod/Monopod: Especially useful for heavy lenses.
6. Camera Bag: To keep all your gear organized and protected.
7. Lens Cleaning Kit: Dust and dirt can be a nuisance during outdoor events.

Personal Comfort and Safety:

1. Ear Protection: Aircraft, especially jets, can be extremely loud. Consider earplugs or noise-canceling earmuffs.
2. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck.
3. Sunglasses: Preferably polarized to reduce glare.
4. Sunblock: Broad-spectrum SPF 50 or higher. Remember to reapply every 2 hours.
5. Lip Balm with SPF: Protect your lips from getting chapped or sunburned.
6. Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on hot days.
7. Snacks: Energy bars or nuts can keep you energized.
8. Comfortable Clothing: Wear layers so you can adjust to the temperature. Comfortable shoes are a must.
9. Portable Chair or Blanket: If you plan to be there for the entire day, having something to sit on can be a relief.
10. Backpack or Tote: To carry your personal items and any purchases from the event.
11. First Aid Kit: Basic items like band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
12. Cash and ID: Some vendors might not accept cards.

Optional but Useful:

1. Binoculars: Get a closer look at distant aircraft or static displays.
2. Notepad and Pen: Jot down details or sequences of the show.
3. Portable Charger: For your phone or other electronic devices.

Remember, while it’s essential to be well-prepared, you don’t want to overburden yourself. Pack smart, prioritize based on your needs, and enjoy the airshow!

Photo captured by Abed Ismail; 24mm, f/5.6, 1/6400s, ISO 1250

On the Day:

• Arrive Early: This allows you to scout the location, check the light, and set up your equipment.
• Choose Your Spot: Position yourself with the sun behind you to illuminate the aircraft. Consider the show’s center as most maneuvers are based around this point.
• Stay Aware: Keep an ear out for announcements. They often provide cues about upcoming performances.

Photography Tips:

• Shutter Speed: For propeller-driven aircraft, use a slower shutter speed (1/125s to 1/250s) to capture the motion of the propellers. For jets, you can use faster speeds (1/1000s or faster).
• Aperture: An aperture of f/8 to f/11 will generally provide sharp images with a decent depth of field.
• ISO: Keep it as low as possible for the best quality. Increase only if necessary.
• Continuous Shooting Mode: This mode allows you to capture multiple frames in quick succession, ensuring you don’t miss any action.
• Panning: To capture aircraft in motion, use a technique called panning. Move your camera to follow the aircraft, keeping it in the same position in your frame. This can create a sharp subject against a blurred background, emphasizing motion.
• Focus: Use continuous or servo autofocus mode. This allows the camera to keep adjusting focus as the aircraft moves.
• Composition: While it’s tempting to always zoom in on the aircraft, sometimes pulling back to include the environment (clouds, crowd, other aircraft) can create a more compelling image.

Photo captured by Daniel Klein; 400mm, f/11.0, 1/3200s, ISO 800

Post-Processing:

• RAW Format: Shoot in RAW. This gives you more flexibility in post-processing.
• Editing: Use software like Lightroom or Photoshop. Adjust exposure, contrast, sharpness, and saturation to bring out the best in your shots.
• Noise Reduction: If you had to increase your ISO, use noise reduction tools to clean up your image.
• Cropping: Sometimes, you can’t get as close as you’d like, or an aircraft might be positioned awkwardly in your frame. Cropping can help improve composition.

Respect Safety and Regulations:

Always follow the rules set by the airshow organizers. Stay in designated areas, listen to announcements, and respect barriers.

Airshow photography can be challenging, but with preparation and practice, you can capture breathtaking images. Remember to enjoy the experience, be patient, and keep experimenting with different settings and compositions. The sky’s the limit!

For Further Training:

For help remembering these concepts and more help on the Most Difficult Photography Situations, this new set of Photography Adventure Cheat Sheets have you covered. They are currently 80% off for the launch sale which ends soon if you want to check them out.

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The perfect companion for any photographer. Print one out whenever you need it. Whether you’re going on vacation or seeking out a specific photography adventure, these cheat sheets can provide you with the knowledge and inspiration you need to create your best work yet.

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