The tulip fields of the Northeast Polder are known worldwide for their colours and patterns. From the air, this landscape really comes alive, perfect for unique photos.
Want to get the most out of your helicopter flight? With these 7 tips, you will be optimally prepared and take the best aerial photos.
These tips come not only from practice as a pilot, but also from years of experience in aerial photography. In fact, pilot Pieter Veendrick ran a successful aerial photography business for four years, working with a regular professional aerial photographer. During that time, much knowledge was gained about taking the perfect aerial photo.
Pre-flight preparation
1. Check the weather (crucial for your photos)
The weather largely determines the quality of your photos.
- ☀️ Bright sunny weather can cause haze
- 🌬️ A northwest wind often provides clear “Dutch” visibility
- ☁️ Cloudy weather often gives the most beautiful colours
Preferably choose clear vision rather than sun only.
2. Choose a maximum of one or two lenses
During a helicopter flight, you have little time to change lenses.
Recommended:
- one all-round lens (e.g. 24-70mm)
- or up to two lenses
3. Make sure your camera is ready
Check beforehand:
- battery fully charged
- ample storage space
- appropriate settings
Tip: use a fast shutter speed (at least 1/1000) to freeze movement.
4. Discuss your plan with the pilot
Pilot Pieter Veendrick is happy to think along.
Discuss in advance:
- what you want to photograph
- what compositions you are looking for
During the helicopter flight
5. Avoid window reflection
Reflections can disturb your photos.
During the flight, it is often possible to open a window
This ensures sharper and clearer images.
6. Keep communicating
Continue to communicate with the pilot during the flight.
- indicate what you see
- ask for an extra turn if necessary
- play into the moment, you steer the chopper with your words
The route is often adapted to the most beautiful flowering fields in the Northeast Polder.
7. Take care of yourself
While shooting:
- look through your lens a lot
- the helicopter makes turns
This can cause dizziness.
Tip: take a travel sickness pill beforehand if you are prone to this
This way, you can photograph leisurely and enjoy the flight.
🌷 Why photographing from the sky is so special
From the air, you really see how unique the tulip fields are.
In the Northeast Polder, the fields form:
- clean lines
- large areas
- an almost graphic landscape
A perspective you simply cannot capture from the ground.
Ready to take your perfect tulip photo?
Book your helicopter flight over the Northeast Polder and capture this unique landscape 🚁📸🌷