How to Photograph an Aircraft With a SLR Camera

Photographing airplanes with an SLR requires a solid understanding of the camera.

An SLR camera is a single-lens reflex camera that utilizes a semi-automatic mirror system to showcase exactly what is being captured. This differs from traditional digital cameras that may capture a different image than what is shown on the viewscreen. SLR cameras also provide the photographer more options in controlling exactly how a photograph is captured. When using an SLR camera to photograph airplanes, you are able to precisely set the exposure rating, shutter speed and other features to perfectly capture an in-motion or static airplane.

Instructions

1. Review the operating manual for the SLR camera to become familiar with the various features and how to manipulate the camera's settings.

2. Adjust the shutter speed to 125th of a second to capture a crisp image of a moving airplane. Of course, if you desire a more striking image, such as freezing a propeller on an airplane while its running, adjust the shutter speed to a maximum of 1000th of a second; however, you must stabilize the camera on a tripod to prevent image distortion from your hand movements.

3. Alter the f-stop on the camera based on your shutter speed. For example, with a 125th shutter speed, set your f-stop to F6.7 while a shutter speed of 1000th of a second requires an f-stop of F5.6. Basically, the faster your shutter speed the lower the f-stop needs to be. The f-stop function, also known as the camera's aperture, determines the amount of light allowed to enter the lens while the picture is taken.

4. Turn off your autofocus feature within the camera. While autofocus is generally accurate, due to the fast movement of airplanes using manual focus ensures a sharp and clear image. Of course, if you're capturing a still airplane, autofocus may be sufficient. Position your manual focus at the "infinity" stop.

Tips & Warnings

• Take practice shots of airplanes at your local airport. This is especially important if you're photographing airplanes for a project or client.

• Do not blindly adjust your camera's settings, as this can cause unattractive photographs.

References

• War Bird Aero Press: Better Basics for Aerial Photography: Scott Germain
• All Things Photography: When and Why Should I Change my Camera Shutter Speeds?