MAGAZINE SHOOT
Wash or wipe down your plane. How often will you be on the cover of an international magazine?!!
Clean Out / Organize your interior. I will be taking photos of your entire plane, inside and out.
Clean the belly. We'll do a breakaway shot at the end. You don't want everyone to see your dirty belly!
Wear nice clothes that you want to be photographed in. I will take some photos of you in front of your plane.
Be sure to tell me of anything that makes your plane unique so I can get photos.
Flight Briefing
These are general rules. We will have a full briefing before the flight.
#1 Rule Don't Touch Me! Safety is always first.
In most cases, the Subject Plane (You) will form up on the Photo Plane (Me). Please set up an economy cruise power setting so that after we join up, you will be able to go faster or slower as needed to maneuver on the Photo Plane.
It is your responsibility to maintain eye contact with the Photo Plane at all times. If at any time you have to look away from the Photo Plane, move out of formation before you break eye contact. You watch us, the Photo Plane pilot is watching for traffic, obstacles, etc.
The basic secret of formation flying is: MATCH YOUR WINGS TO THE SAME BANK AS THE LEADER. It sounds too simple, but if your wings are held at the same angle as the Photo Plane you will find it easy to stay with us.
We will give you directions in increments of 5 feet. 5 feet forward, 5 feet down, etc.
If you lose sight of the Photo Plane, move away from our known position slowly, and immediately advise us that you have lost sight.
When you are being positioned for the “in-trail” pictures if you are looking through the Photo Plane’s horizontal stabilizer to see the photographer, then the stabilizer will also be in the picture. Please re-position so you have a clear view of the photographer.
Lastly, Don't Touch Me!! Let's make sure we both go home!
TIPS AT BEING A GOOD PHOTO SUBJECT
Be sure your aircraft interior is neat, with no unattractive gear showing. Your hats, clothing, etc. will also be visible in some of the pictures, so dress appropriately.
If you want to take pictures of the Photo Plane, wait for a time when we are not taking your picture. (And keep your camera out of sight when we are shooting you.)
Consider a black shirt if you are in a plane with a canopy. Less reflection.
SMILE!! It makes the pictures much better. You are having fun, remember?!