Aerial Photography Equipment Tips
Aerial photography requires a variety of equipment to produce high-quality images and videos. In the article, information about the equipment that is mandatory for aerial photography is going to be discussed along with tips on how to take quality photographs and videos. In short, we will discuss the equipment individually like the camera drone, gimbal, software, and its contribution to aerial photography.
1. UAV or the Camera Drone
Using the right camera drone is vital for mounting the camera you may intend to use. Various sizes are available considering that cameras come in a variety of sizes. As for the camera drone, it must have a payload capacity that will be able to fit the camera that you will use when carrying out the photography session. At times, during a purchase, a drone may be bought together with an inbuilt camera.
Unfortunately, the inbuilt cameras are not as efficient but great for a beginner. If you are professional then it is advisable to go for a drone and a camera separately. This way, you will get value for your money. A variety of cameras are available in stores or online. So far, the Go-Pro Black has proved to be the most efficient among all the camera brands used in aerial photography.
When purchasing a camera, you must take into consideration that the weight and size of the camera. Because of the heavier the camera, the bigger the drone with payload capacity is needed. Also concerning price, a larger the camera drone is the more expensive it most likely will be. Mounting the camera is among the other factors that you should take into consideration. Does the drone or the camera come with accessories that will make the mounting (attaching) easy? Can you access the equipment easily, change out batteries, or SD memory sticks?
During mounting, a Gimbal provides support to the camera. Finally, you also need to consider how the total weight of the equipment will interfere with the flight time of the drone when shooting. Consider a longer life battery if available or buy a spare battery for the camera drone.
2. SD card or Memory Stick
For both in-built as well as external cameras, an SD card is of help so as to store images and videos taken during the photo session. In short, the SD card is just a memory device needed for storage. The size of the SD card determines the number of images and videos that you may take during one session. Better to use a one with High Definition and more storage capacity since images can take up large amounts of storage space.
3. Gimbals Come In Various Types
This is equipment that provides support for the camera after mounting on the UAV. Also, the Gimbal aids in the rotation of the camera along with a single axis.
2-D Gimbal –
This sort of Gimbal provides stability and support for the camera on the UAV. Such a Gimbal only supports rotation of the camera on only one axis.
Gimbal 3-D
As usual, the Gimbal provides support for the camera mounted on the UAV. This type of Gimbal is the preferred version when it comes to embarking on an aerial photography escapade.
4. First Person View (FPV) equipment
This apparatus allows you to view what the camera is recording on a real-time basis. As a result, you are in the capacity to adjust the camera to more suitable positions so as to ensure the taking of perfect photographs and videos. Also, the equipment allows you to fly the aircraft at a safer distance than you would when using the line of sight.
5. Editing Software
When purchasing a camera, the editing software comes in as a bonus package. Such software aids in the editing of photographs and videos.
At times, you may require software with many capabilities; as a result, you may need to search for one that may suit your needs as a photographer and editor.
6. Tips
At times aerial photographs and videos incur some effects that affect the quality of the images produced. The images may appear to be shaky and hence no quality pictures or videos. Such an occurrence is brought about by factors such as unbalanced propellers. Also, a brushless gimbal with a built-in vibration dampener may come in handy. Hence, the gimbal will aid in the reduction of vibrations and hence better image quality.
As a result, perfect timing comes in handy when shooting. The most favorable time to do aerial photograph shooting is one hour before sunset, and also one hour after sunset. Many of us may know this period as the golden hour. Perfect images are assured because the sun produces a favorable amount of light and it is softer. Middle of the day you usually will have harsh bright white daylight.