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Dwayne Hards: A guide to starting plane spotting

You will need to have talent, patience, and a high-quality camera if you wish to capture stunning images of aeroplanes flying in the sky.

Image of an easyJet aeroplane in a grey sky.
Copyright: Dwayne Hards.

Before you dive into the world of aviation photography, you should be 100% sure the hobby is for you so that you don't waste your money. Aviation photography can cost a fortune — and so can any other type of photography.


When you're sure the hobby (plane spotting) is for you, you'll need to purchase a high-quality camera, as you'll need to be able to zoom thousands of feet into the sky. Click here to view the camera I bought.


You will need to have plenty of patience and determination when you're capturing photos of planes, as you won't always be able to capture decent photos of planes, especially during your first few months of plane spotting. However, after you've gotten used to your new hobby, it'll suddenly become much easier, in my experience.


You'll need to be prepared to fail sometimes, as you won't be able to take good pictures of every plane that flies past you. However, it doesn't matter if you can't snap a picture of one or two, or even three or more, planes because many more will fly across your spot. As long as you don't give up, you'll get some great pictures of planes. You will fail every now and again, but this is normal.


To enjoy some time out plane spotting, you will need to go somewhere open where planes fly over, such as: a garden, a field, an airport car park, or anywhere else where planes fly under 30,000 feet. Please be sure to comply with local and national laws regarding where you're allowed to visit and where photography and/or visitors' access is strictly prohibited.


I hope you enjoy your hobby (if you've decided it's for you)!


If you would like some more information regarding plane spotting, please don't hesitate to email LCN.

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