How to Be Freefall Photographer/Videographer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jun 27, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The act of freefall photography and videography is becoming increasingly popular due to its ability to capture the beauty of aerial shots and unique perspectives. This type of photography and videography requires specialized training, equipment, and skill. As a result, the demand for professional freefall photographers and videographers has risen significantly in recent years.

This is evident in the growing number of individuals who are pursuing a career in this field, as well as the increasing popularity of freefall-related activities such as skydiving, base jumping, and wingsuit flying. The increased demand for these professionals has also led to a rise in the number of courses available to learn the necessary techniques and skills, as well as the development of modern camera equipment designed to capture high-quality aerial shots. Consequently, freefall photography and videography are becoming an increasingly popular way to capture stunning views and exhilarating moments.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a DSLR camera and learn how to use it. Familiarize yourself with the features, settings, and functions so youre comfortable using the camera.
Take a photography course or class to learn the basics of photography such as lighting, composition, and shooting techniques.
Take a freefall photography or videography class or workshop to learn the basics of shooting while in freefall.
Obtain the necessary safety gear and equipment to ensure you can safely and effectively use the camera while in freefall. This includes a camera mount, tethers, and a harness.
Practice shooting with your camera in a safe environment such as indoors or at a skydiving center.
Join a skydiving club and go on regular skydiving trips with experienced skydivers who can help you hone your freefall photography skills.
Once youre comfortable shooting in freefall, consider taking on paid jobs to build your portfolio and gain experience.
Promote your services online and through social media platforms to reach potential customers.

In order to stay qualified and updated as a freefall photographer/videographer, one must continuously work on honing their craft. This requires dedicating time to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the industry, researching new equipment, and attending workshops or classes to learn about the latest advancements in technology. it is important to stay current with the laws and regulations surrounding the activity, as well as participating in safety courses to ensure one is taking all necessary precautions while freefall photographing/videographing.

Finally, networking with other professionals in the industry can help one stay informed and connected to both new and experienced freefall photographers/videographers. By actively engaging in these activities, a freefall photographer/videographer can remain at the forefront of the industry and continue to provide quality services.

You may want to check Skydiving Event Coordinator, Indoor Wind Tunnel Technician, and Swooping Skydiver for alternative.

Job Description

Capture and document the beauty of freefall skydiving in stunning photographs and videos.
Operate and maintain sophisticated, high-end camera equipment.
Interact with clients, providing accurate information about the services offered.
Coordinate with skydivers and other professionals to ensure a safe and successful shoot.
Edit and process photographs and video footage to provide the best possible results.
Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in photography and videography.
Monitor weather conditions to ensure optimal lighting and composition for photography and videography projects.
Work closely with clients to determine their expectations and deliver on those expectations.
Maintain a portfolio of previous work to showcase to potential clients.
Promote the services provided through various marketing channels.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Technical knowledge of cameras and photography equipment
Understanding of photography principles such as composition, exposure, and lighting
Ability to troubleshoot and solve technical issues quickly
Proficiency in post-production software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom
Creativity and an eye for capturing stunning images
Knowledge of FAA regulations for aerial photography
Excellent communication skills for working with clients
Ability to work well under pressure and in challenging environments
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Physical fitness and agility for operating in cramped spaces and working at heights

Being a successful freefall photographer and videographer requires a combination of technical skills, creative vision, and physical fitness. To capture the perfect shot, one must possess a keen eye for composition and have the ability to adjust camera settings quickly and accurately. a good sense of timing is essential, as the photographer must be able to anticipate the right moment to take the shot.

Physical fitness is also important, as photographers need to be able to position themselves in different positions to get the best angle while they are in freefall. Furthermore, they need to be able to focus on the task at hand while flying through the air at high speeds. Finally, a strong understanding of the technology they are using is also essential in order to properly utilize the equipment and its capabilities.

With these skills and attributes, a freefall photographer and videographer can create stunning images and videos of their experiences in the sky.

Skydiving Equipment Technician, Skydiving Flight Suit Technician, and Skydiver Deployment Specialist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in Freefall photography/videography?
What type of equipment do you use for Freefall photography/videography?
How do you maintain safety standards when shooting from a high altitude?
How do you manage the challenge of capturing clear images or footage during a fast-moving freefall?
What techniques do you use to keep the camera steady and focused during a high-speed descent?
How do you keep up with the latest camera technology and trends in the field?
What strategies do you use to capture unique and creative shots during a freefall?
How do you adjust for changing weather conditions and maintain the quality of the footage?
How do you ensure your equipment is ready for any potential emergency situation while freefalling?
What do you think sets you apart as a Freefall Photographer/Videographer?

Common Tools in Industry

Camera. A device used to take photos and videos. (e. g. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV)
Camera Mounts. A device used to securely attach a camera to an object, such as a helmet or other body part. (e. g. GoPro Chest Harness Mount)
Memory Cards. A device used to store photos and videos taken with a camera. (e. g. SanDisk Extreme Pro 32GB UHS-I/U3 SDHC Memory Card)
Tripods. A device used to provide stability for photos and videos being taken. (e. g. Manfrotto Compact Advanced Tripod)
Gimbals. A device used to keep a camera level while moving around, allowing for smooth shots. (e. g. DJI Ronin-S Gimbal Stabilizer)
Laptops. A device used to edit and store photos and videos taken with a camera. (e. g. Apple MacBook Pro)
Drone. A device used to take aerial photos and videos from above. (e. g. DJI Mavic 2 Pro)
Action Cameras. A device used to take photos and videos in extreme situations, such as during freefall skydiving. (e. g. GoPro Hero 8 Black)

Professional Organizations to Know

Professional Society of Drone Journalists
National Press Photographers Association
American Society of Media Photographers
Professional Aerial Cinematography Association
International Society of Aviation Photographers
International Association of Wildland Fire
Association of Freelance Photographers
Society of Photographers in Motion
Academy of Underwater Arts and Sciences
British Institute of Professional Photography

We also have Skydiving Flight Technology Specialist, Skydiving Emergency Medical Technician, and Formation Skydiver jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Parachuting. The sport of jumping from an aircraft at a high altitude and using a parachute to descend to the ground safely.
Skydiving. The sport of jumping out of an aircraft and descending to the ground with the assistance of a parachute.
Freefall. The period of time during which a skydiver is in the air before opening their parachute.
Canopy. The part of the parachute that provides the skydiver with lift and air resistance during descent.
Altitude. The height above sea level of an aircraft or a location on the ground.
AAD. Automatic Activation Device; a device that automatically deploys a skydivers reserve parachute if the skydiver does not deploy it manually in time.
Static Line. A line connecting the skydiver to the aircraft, which allows them to deploy the main parachute as they exit the aircraft.
Tracking. A technique used by skydivers to maintain a horizontal body position while in freefall.
Swooping. A technique used by experienced skydivers to gain speed and maneuverability while in freefall.
Crosswind Landing. A landing technique used by advanced skydivers where they turn and land into the wind for maximum stability during landing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of equipment is used by Freefall Photographer/Videographer?

Freefall Photographer/Videographer typically use digital cameras and stabilizer rigs to capture aerial images and videos.

How high do Freefall Photographer/Videographer typically fly?

Freefall Photographer/Videographer typically fly at altitudes between 10,000 and 20,000 feet.

What type of aircraft are used by Freefall Photographer/Videographer?

Freefall Photographer/Videographer typically use light aircraft such as single-engine planes, gliders, or hot air balloons.

What safety precautions are taken for Freefall Photographer/Videographer?

Freefall Photographer/Videographer typically wear a parachute and follow standard skydiving safety protocols. They may also be accompanied by an experienced skydiving instructor.

How much does a Freefall Photographer/Videographer session typically cost?

Prices for a Freefall Photographer/Videographer session vary depending on the duration, location, and type of aircraft used, but typically range from $500 to $5,000.

Web Resources

Freelance Photographer/Videographer Albuquerque Public www.aps.edu
Freelance Photographers and Videographers | Office of Strategic ... www.unomaha.edu
Videographer: Everything You Need to Know - NFI www.nfi.edu