Why are aerial photographs more expensive?
The photographs
cost the same to produce as any other photo. The difference is the
cost of transportation to the location of the shoot. A typical flight
in the Washington DC Metro area will usually require a minimum of one
hour to complete (that includes take-off, getting to the site,
photographing the subject from several angles and altitudes, waiting
for clouds to clear, returning to the departure point). Also bear in
mind that since 9/11 the Washington Metropolitan Area has mostly
Restricted Airspace requiring that Potomac Aerials file a waiver with
the Transportation Safety Administration and receive clearance to
perform aerial photography work. This is a time consuming task for us
and needs to be taken into consideration in our pricing and packages.
(That is why we also offer Elevated Photography as a more affordable
alternative to our clients). And, lets face it; we also consider the
inherent risk involved in Aerial Photography!
A custom aerial
photograph is taken for only one customer (you)! Unlike stock photos,
the cost is not spread among repeat customers. That is why stock
photographs can be sold for a lot less cost than a custom photograph.
It is also why Potomac Aerials reduces the per-print cost if you order
multiple copies of your custom photograph.
How long
does it take?
It all depends
on the weather. Great weather for going to the beach or going to the
park isn't necessarily great weather for aerial photography. Puffy
white clouds that offer shade from the sun as they drift by, also cast
ugly shadows on the earth. Haze, primarily during the summer months in
the Washington DC and Metro area, is also a warm weather-flying
nuisance. We always prefer deep blue skies permitting us to capture
crisp clear photographs.
RUSH jobs will
be dependent on the Prevailing Weather, so please give that your
strongest consideration. Although it is possible to take photos
during rushed conditions, when the weather is not the most conducive,
you may not receive the quality photograph Potomac Aerials prides
itself on.
But rest
assured, Potomac Aerials will work to present you with a photograph
you will love as quickly as possible.
Can a client ride with you
on an Aerial Photo shoot?
Aerial Photography is quite complex and time critical. Unlike most
Scenic Recreational Flights there are specific Weight and Balance
parameters we must adhere to when flying Low and Slow over a client
site to ensure a safe and productive outcome. We usually encourage
clients who are interested in a flight to contact the Cloud Club
Flying Club at Washington Executive Hyde Airport (301) 297-4400 and
request an introductory flight. It's a cost effective way to take to
the air and enjoy the flying experience!
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