Aerial Photography

Walt Disney, creator of the Disney empire, was a pioneer in modern

entertainment. Among his numerous contributions to the film industry is the
concept of the nature documentary which he termed True Life Adventures. Disney
sent camera teams into wilderness areas for extended periods in order to capture
the natural world on film. Now entire television networks like NatGeo are devoted
to the nature documentary genre.
With nature documentaries, viewers are able to experience the natural world
in exciting and innovative ways, including panoramic aerial photography that gives
a unique perspective of the earth below. Aerial photographers require skills and
daring in order to capture intriguing photos of wildlife that will enhance people’s
appreciation of the natural world and possibly advance scientific knowledge of
animal behavior.
Aerial photography is accomplished using hot air balloons, small fixed-wing
aircraft or helicopters. When photographing from a plane or helicopter, the
passenger side door is removed so the photographer can lean out to capture the
unique views. Of course, the photographer is secured into the aircraft with
appropriate safety gear. The job of an aerial photographer isn’t all glamour and
excitement. Remember that the air temperature decreases with altitude so an aerial
photographer is often bundled up with insulated clothing and possibly even a face
mask while being exposed to the wind created by the moving aircraft. The
photographer can spend hours being cold and uncomfortable without
encountering that one special scene that will light up the editor’s eyes and sell.
Aerial photographers are frequently grounded by inclement weather and
must wait out the weather before flying again but the aftermath of storms can be an
opportunity for unusual photographs. The thrill of the hunt is a motivator for a
dedicated nature photographer. National Geographic aerial photographer Robert
Haas stated, “Chasing our dreams is the thing that shows we appreciate the
privilege of being alive.”

Circle the correct answer.

1. Nature documentaries called True Life Adventures were started by
a. Walt Disney b. George Lucas c. Steven Spielberg d. None of the
above
2. Aerial photography can be accomplished from a
a. Hot air balloon b. Fixed-wing aircraft c. Helicopter d. All of the above
3. Panoramic means
a. Narrow b. Wide c. Enchanting d. Endearing
4. An aerial photographer is frequently exposed to
a. Rain b. Snow c. Heat d. Wind
5. Aerial photographers are grounded means
a. There is a looming thunderstorm b. They will be photographing from a hot air
balloon c. The weather is not suitable for flying d. None of the above
Aerial Photography Short Answer Questions

1. Do you like to watch nature documentaries? Explain why or why not.

2. Do some research and write a short report about the history of Disney’s True
LifeAdventures.

3. What is a fixed-wing aircraft? If you don’t know, look up the answer.

4. The reading does not mention the importance of the pilot in aerial
photography. Write a short description of the role of the pilot in aerial
photography. Do research as needed.

5. With a team of your classmates compile a complete list of all the practical
considerations of undertaking an aerial photography expedition in a remote area
such as getting there, obtaining fuel, visas, lodging, etc.

6. Do some research and compile a list of careers that are related to

photography.

7. National Geographic aerial photographer Robert Haas stated, “Chasing our

dreams is the thing that shows we appreciate the privilege of being alive.” Write
an essay giving your interpretation of this quote.