How to Become a Skydiving Photographer

Skydiving photography is also termed "free-fall photography."

The basic technique in skydiving photography involves mounting a camera onto a special helmet by means of a quick release bracket and activating it by a remote control cable or blow switch during free-fall. Experienced skydivers also strap the camera around their foot or stomach, which allows them to take pictures even when under the parachute canopy. Becoming a successful skydiving photographer, therefore, requires prowess in both skydiving and photography.

Instructions

1. Take the first leap. If you have never skydived before, join a skydiving school. You can choose among several methods of training, depending on the school, your requirements and comfort. For instance, you can start with what the U.S. Parachute Association (USPA) calls the "tandem free-fall." In this method, the student and the instructor are attached and descend together under a single large parachute with dual controls.

2. Learn to fly solo. Once you gain the required confidence, you can exit from the aircraft or deploy the parachute on your own. Under the "instructor-assisted deployment" method, the student exits the aircraft solo and the instructor deploys the parachute during exit. The next level in the learning hierarchy is "accelerated free-fall." In this method, student and instructor fall together for the first 30 to 50 seconds depending on the altitude level. Then the student is detached and is required to open his own parachute and pilot it to the landing area.

3. Earn a basic license. People holding an A-level USPA license can skydive without supervision. To earn this category license you must have completed 25 jumps and

   received the skydiving proficiency card signed by the instructor.

4. Become an experienced diver. When descending at a speed of 120 mph or more, it takes several iterations of practice to balance and to remain in control of your body. Mike Murphy, an expert skydiving photographer, suggests you do a minimum of 200 solo jumps before mounting a skydiving camera on your helmet.

5. Earn advanced-level licenses. While you continue to become a better skydiver, you also can earn advanced-level USPA licenses. The B level license requirements include a total of at least 100 jumps; 30 minutes of total free-fall time; and the ability to perform individual maneuvers (body turns, flips and back loops). You can earn the C-level license after 200 jumps, and the D-level license after 500 jumps.

6. Learn skydiving photography techniques. The logistics of managing a camera in mid air require higher skills. Along with the regular techniques of photography, you also have to become adept in operating the camera without using your hands or eyes. While there are no formal training centers, you can subscribe to relevant magazines, seek expert advice and get comfortable with all the equipment and its operations before skydiving with a camera.

References

• United States Parachute Association: Become a Skydiver
• ePhotozine: Skydiving Photography Techniques
• National Geographic: Skydiving Photographer on Risks, Rush
• Adorama: Sky Diving Photography Techniques
• University of Maryland: Skydiving License Requirements

Resources

• The U.S. Parachute Association: Home