Tips for taking pictures from airplanes and helicopters

• Wear dark clothes: bright/light-colored clothes will create reflections on the windows
• Consider using a polarizing filter to get rid of glare (but know how to use it - and understand the consequences of it too…)
• Go manual or go home: autofocus will be tripped by reflections and the speed at which things are moving
• Bracketing is of no use if you’re taking pictures of what is outside the airplane: you’re moving too fast
• Bracketing is great if you’re taking pictures inside the plane and still want to see what’s outside the window
• Bring limited gear: changing lenses and fiddling with equipment in a small cockpit is difficult
• Try to plan the flight and what you want to take pictures off (ask the pilot for the flight route!)
• Once in flight, let the pilot know what you’re trying to take a picture of, he/she may be able to lift a wing or maneuver for you to get your best shot
• Watch for the prop (or rotor in case you’re in a helicopter): it’ll create weird artifacts on the picture see this as to why.
• Respect the pilot’s decisions. it goes without saying but the pilot is responsible for the safety of the flight. Don’t even try to negotiate that.