10 Photos You Should Be Taking When You Fly

Traveling by air offers a unique perspective of the world. From soaring above clouds to witnessing breathtaking aerial views of landscapes, there are plenty of moments worth capturing through the lens of your camera or smartphone. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or taking your first flight, here are ten essential photos you should be taking when you fly.

1. The Window Seat View

Perhaps the most iconic airplane photo is the view from your window seat. Whether it's a sunrise, sunset, or simply the sprawling landscape below, capturing the beauty of the world from above is a must. Make sure to clean your window and adjust the brightness to avoid reflections or glares.

2. Wing Shots

The aircraft's wing can provide a striking composition for your photos. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the wing's elegance and the vast sky beyond. You can also include the plane's engine or the horizon to add depth to your shot.

3. Cloudscapes

Cloud formations are ever-changing and make for fascinating subjects. Whether it's fluffy cumulus clouds, streaky cirrus clouds, or the towering cumulonimbus, capturing the variety of cloudscapes during your flight can result in mesmerizing images.

4. Aerial Cityscapes

If your flight takes you over a city, be ready to snap a shot of the urban landscape. The sprawling city lights at night or the intricate patterns of streets and buildings during the day can create captivating compositions.

5. Sunrise and Sunset

Timing your flight to coincide with a sunrise or sunset can lead to some of the most stunning photos. The warm hues of the sun casting a soft glow over the horizon are a sight to behold. Make sure to set your camera's white balance to capture the true colors of the moment.

6. Aircraft Details

Get creative by zooming in on various parts of the aircraft, such as the wingtips, engines, or tail. These shots can provide a unique perspective and highlight the intricacies of aviation technology.

7. In-Flight Meals and Beverages

Documenting your in-flight meals and beverages can be a fun way to capture the culinary aspects of your journey. Whether it's a gourmet dish in business class or a simple snack in economy, these photos can serve as culinary travel memories.

8. Fellow Passengers and Crew

Don't forget to take candid shots of your fellow passengers and the flight crew. These candid moments can tell a story and capture the human element of air travel.

9. Takeoff and Landing

Capture the excitement and anticipation of takeoff and the sense of arrival during landing. These shots can help document the progression of your flight and provide a sense of the journey's beginning and end.

10. Airport Architecture

If you have a layover or a long connection, take the opportunity to explore the architecture and design of the airport. Many airports around the world feature unique and visually appealing structures that make for great architectural photos.

‍

Tips for Better Airplane Photography

Here are some tips to help you capture better photos when you fly:

• Use a Window Seat: Whenever possible, choose a window seat to have a clear view and reduce reflections on the glass.
• Clean Your Window: Wipe down your window before takeoff to ensure your photos are free from smudges or dirt.
• Use Manual Settings: If you have a DSLR or advanced camera, consider using manual settings to have more control over exposure and focus.
• Avoid the Flash: Use natural light whenever possible. The onboard flash can create unwanted reflections.
• Edit and Enhance: After your flight, consider editing your photos to enhance colors, sharpness, and overall quality.
• Respect Privacy: When taking photos of fellow passengers or flight crew, be respectful of their privacy and ask for permission when necessary.
• Stay Safe: Always follow airline safety guidelines and the instructions of the flight crew when taking photos during a flight.

‍

Conclusion

Flying offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning photos that showcase the beauty of our world from above. Whether it's the scenic views, the details of the aircraft, or the people you meet along the way, these ten types of photos should be part of your flying photography repertoire. So, the next time you're on a plane, don't forget to have your camera or smartphone ready to capture these unforgettable moments of your journey through the skies.