Commercial Aerial Photography has many uses throughout the world.
Regardless of the end use, image quality has always been paramount and
this is becoming more important as satellite imagery becomes
increasingly affordable and of an increasing clarity.
(It must be remembered however that satellite imagery rarely competes with Oblique Aerial Photography
where and angle is required) For many years aerial photographers like
their land-based colleagues have relied on film and it has only been in
the last few years that the digital equipment has been able to rival
film. This is still not true for large prints where medium format film
cameras provide the benchmark in perfect conditions such as display Construction Photography.
The main advantages digital has over film: -
Greater flexibility allows photography in poorer condition which
would not normally be possible, e.g. Photography in low light - ISOs
up to and above 1600.
Immediate data recall and review while on location.
No changing film.
High capacity memory cards allow hundreds of images on one card
(depending on image size) - especially important where a large number
of images are to be taken in a short space of time, such as Event Aerial Photography.
Image stabilization on lenses.
Immediate image transfer from the office to clients.
Easier archiving of electronic data with instant recall.
Limitation in size of printable image depending on size of sensor.
Most semi-pro DSLRs do not have full frame sensors, therefore smaller
than 35mm. Professional DSLR cameras do have full frame sensors but
these are roughly the equivalent of a 35mm film camera and no larger.
Meduim format digital cameras are not usually appropriate for use
in Aircraft due to the restriction on ISO settings and the very high
cost.
Possible to loose data inadvertently.
Camera battery power is paramount.
Need for constant hardware and software upgrades.
For many aerial photographers the move to digital equipment has not
only provided greater flexibility but has also reduced processing costs
as many clients will not require prints but only the digital files on a
disc. Although there will be a large initial outlay for the equipment
the savings over time on the lab processing fees should outweigh these.
Keith McGregor is a partner of Strawberrysoup, a web design agency with offices in Chichester and Bournemouth. Strawberrysoup specialise in creative web design, content managed websites, search engine optimisation, search engine marketing and graphic design
