Instruction manual

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• Set your digital camera to its highest contrast. Look at your histogram, if
available; you'll be surprised at how it tends to bunch up in the middle
(implying low contrast) even if things look normal to you while flying.
If allowed by the customer you can use an photo editing program to
increase contrast and cut through haze. The easy way is to use “Auto
Levels” which will take the dull grays and expand them to blacks and
whites; you can also use the “Levels” command and manually move the
blacks and whites or adjust the mid tones.
• UV and haze filters don’t always work well in aerial photography so don’t
rely on them (except to use a UV filter to protect the camera lens).
11.4.4 Focus
Even though you’re flying at 80 knots your distance from the ground (altitude)
stays roughly the same. When using Autofocus (AF), try using the "S" AF
position; this focuses each shot perfectly, even if you change the zoom setting.
Otherwise, use exposure lock (pre-focus).
If you’re using Manual focus, set the lens at the “Infinity” stop unless you're
using a lens longer than 200 mm or are at less than 1,000' AGL. [Note: Most AF
lenses can focus past infinity and have to be focused with the AF system.]
11.4.5 Wind
The wind will knock your camera around if you let a telephoto lens extend
even a little bit out the window. You have to make a conscious effort to lean back
away from the window to keep your lens inside.
11.5 Inventory Equipment and Check Camera Settings
11.5.1 Inventory
Perform an inventory to make sure you have everything you need to
accomplish the mission. At a minimum check for:
• Camera/GPS batteries charged (including spares). Note: If batteries get
too cold they will weaken and even stop working. If it’s cold keep the
camera and batteries with you; don’t leave them in the airplane overnight.
If it’s really cold, carry the spare batteries in your pocket where your body
will keep them warm.
• Memory cards with sufficient capacity, including spares (you may also
include a 512MB or 1GB USB flash memory drive for extra storage).
• Filters (as needed). A UV filter should normally be installed to protect the
lens.