Best Schools for Aerial Photographers in 2024

Essential Education to Become an Aerial Photographer

Embarking on a career as an aerial photographer is an exciting prospect that combines the love for photography with the thrill of capturing images from unique vantage points. While a formal degree is not always required, having a strong educational background can significantly enhance your skills and opportunities in this field. Here’s what you need to know about the essential education to become an aerial photographer:

Understanding Photography Fundamentals

• Photography Courses: Start with courses that cover the basics of photography, including composition, lighting, and exposure. Understanding these fundamentals is crucial for any type of photography.
• Digital Editing: Learn how to use photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom. Post-processing is an important part of creating professional-quality photos.

Specialized Training for Aerial Photography

• Aerial Photography Workshops: Look for workshops specifically designed for aerial photography. These can provide hands-on experience with aerial cameras and equipment.
• Drone Operation Courses: Since drones are commonly used in aerial photography, taking courses on drone operation and safety is essential. This includes understanding the regulations surrounding drone flights.

Gaining Technical Skills

• Camera and Equipment Handling: Familiarize yourself with different types of cameras and lenses suitable for aerial photography, as well as stabilization tools to ensure clear, sharp images.
• Remote Sensing and GIS: For those interested in mapping or surveying, knowledge in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing can be beneficial.

Legal and Safety Considerations

• Aviation Laws: Understand the aviation laws relevant to aerial photography in your region. This includes drone regulations, airspace restrictions, and privacy laws.
• Safety Certifications: Consider obtaining safety certifications, especially if you plan to work in challenging environments or if drone operation is involved.

Developing a Portfolio

• Diverse Projects: Build a portfolio showcasing a range of subjects and landscapes. This demonstrates your versatility and skill in capturing different types of aerial photographs.
• Online Presence: Create an online portfolio or website to display your work professionally. This can also serve as a platform to attract potential clients or employers.

Continuous Learning and Networking

• Join Photography Groups: Engage with other photographers through online forums or local clubs. This can provide opportunities for learning, collaboration, and networking.
• Stay Updated: The field of aerial photography is constantly evolving with technological advancements. Stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and equipment.

While not all aerial photographers follow the same educational path, investing time in learning these essential skills can set you apart in this competitive field. Whether through formal education, workshops, or self-study, the key is to continually refine your craft and stay curious about new possibilities in aerial photography.

Aerial Photographer Education Resources

Professional Associations

• Professional Aerial Photographers Association (PAPA): A great resource for networking, PAPA offers educational resources, industry news, and events tailored to aerial photographers. Visit PAPA
• American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP): Though not exclusively for aerial photography, ASMP provides valuable information on business practices, copyright issues, and insurance for photographers. Explore ASMP

Industry Publications

• Aerial Photography Magazine: This publication focuses on the art and science of aerial photography, featuring articles on technique, gear reviews, and showcases of outstanding work. Read Aerial Photography Magazine
• Drone Magazine: Covers the latest in drone technology, including gear reviews, regulatory updates, and tips for aerial photography and videography. Check out Drone Magazine

Online Resources

• Udemy: Offers a variety of online courses in aerial photography and videography, covering both beginner and advanced techniques. Find courses on Udemy
• Lynda.com from LinkedIn Learning: Provides comprehensive tutorials on drone photography, including how to fly drones safely and capture stunning aerial footage. Start learning on Lynda.com

Professional Equipment and Software

• DJI: As a leading manufacturer of drones for photography and videography, DJI's website is a treasure trove of product information, tutorials, and community forums. Visit DJI
• Adobe Creative Cloud: Essential software for photo editing and video production, Adobe's suite includes Photoshop and Premiere Pro, among others. Explore Adobe Creative Cloud

Career.Guide

For those looking to dive deeper into becoming an aerial photographer, Career.Guide provides an extensive array of articles, guides, and tips to help you navigate your education and career path in aerial photography.

• Aerial Photography Pathways: Learn about the educational requirements, necessary skills, and career pathways in aerial photography.
• Interviews with Professionals: Gain insights from interviews with seasoned aerial photographers who share their experiences and advice.

• Equipment Reviews: Stay informed with detailed reviews of the latest drones and photography equipment.

  To explore more about aerial photographer education and career opportunities, visit Career.Guide.

Aerial Photographer Education FAQs

What type of education do I need to become an aerial photographer?

Becoming an aerial photographer doesn't necessarily require a formal degree, but having a strong foundation in photography and an understanding of aerial techniques can significantly benefit your career. Here's what you might consider:

• Photography Courses or Degree: Many aerial photographers start with a basic photography course or even pursue a degree in photography. This provides a solid understanding of composition, lighting, and camera settings.
• Drone Piloting Certifications: If you plan to use drones for aerial photography, obtaining a drone piloting certification is essential. In the U.S., this means passing the FAA Part 107 test to fly drones commercially.
• Workshops and Training: Specialized workshops in aerial photography can provide hands-on experience and knowledge specific to aerial shooting techniques, safety protocols, and equipment handling.

Do I need any certifications or licenses?

Yes, depending on how you plan to capture aerial photographs, certain certifications or licenses may be required:

• FAA Part 107 Certification: For drone photography in the U.S., the FAA requires commercial drone operators to obtain a Part 107 certification. This involves passing an aeronautical knowledge test.
• Pilot’s License: If you're using manned aircraft for your aerial photography, you'll need at least a private pilot's license, which requires passing both a written exam and a flight test.

What skills are important for an aerial photographer?

To succeed as an aerial photographer, several skills and qualities are crucial:

• Technical Photography Skills: Understanding camera settings, composition, and lighting is fundamental.
• Drone Operation Skills: Proficiency in flying drones safely and effectively for those using unmanned aircraft.
• Attention to Detail: Aerial photography often requires capturing images from fast-moving platforms, making precision and attention to detail critical.
• Spatial Awareness: Being able to visualize how scenes will look from above and choosing the right angles and moments to capture.
• Editing Skills: Proficiency in photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom to enhance your aerial shots post-flight.

Are there any special considerations for aerial photography?

Aerial photography comes with its own set of challenges and considerations that are distinct from traditional photography:

• Safety Regulations: Understanding and adhering to local and federal aviation regulations is paramount for legal and safe operations.
• Weather Conditions: Aerial photographers must be adept at planning around weather conditions, as these can dramatically impact the quality of images and safety of flights.
• Equipment Handling: Knowing how to secure and manage photography equipment during flights is essential to prevent damage or loss.
• Insurance: Obtaining insurance that covers equipment loss or damage and liability in case of accidents is highly recommended.

How can I build experience as an aerial photographer?

Building experience as an aerial photographer involves practice, networking, and sometimes volunteering your services to gain exposure:

• Practice Regularly: Spend time mastering your equipment and technique. This could mean flying drones in various conditions or practicing shooting from different heights and angles.
• Portfolio Development: Create a strong portfolio showcasing your best aerial work. This will be crucial when approaching clients or agencies.
• Networking: Connect with other photographers, join relevant online forums or communities, and attend workshops or trade shows to meet potential clients or collaborators.
• Volunteer or Freelance Projects: Offering your services for free or at a reduced rate initially can help build your portfolio and gain valuable real-world experience.

By understanding these educational pathways, certifications, skills, considerations, and strategies for gaining experience, you'll be better equipped to pursue a career in aerial photography.