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Aerial Photography – A Bird's Eye View
By Andrew Kelly

Aerial photography is defined as the taking of photographs while in the air, either by way of an airplane, hot air balloon, rocket, skydiver, ultra light, helicopter, rocket or some other type of airborne vehicle. Aerial photography originated in France in 1958 when an avid balloonist and photographer named Nadar, took his first aerial photographs. Aerial photography has many different purposes for example; military strategy and surveillance, mapmaking, moving making, espionage, wildlife studies, natural resource research and residential photography as well as many other purposes.

Aerial Photography as Historical Family Heirlooms

Residential aerial photography is very popular with individuals and families that live in rural areas. These photographs, while often costly, allow the resident to view their home and adjoining acreage from above, a viewpoint that is nearly impossible to photograph. These aerial photographs are a historical account of the property and any improvements made during ownership. One local resident actually purchased all the aerial photography of a home he was buying so that he would have photographic history from the origin of the house to the time he bought it and planned to continue to purchase the aerial photos during his time of ownership, thus maintaining a family heirloom for his children and grandchildren.

Aerial Photography is often Considered Priceless by Homeowners

As a property owner in a rural neighborhood our home has been photographed approximately every five years. We have purchased the aerial photography every time a representative has contacted us. In the fifteen years we have lived in our home, we have made many upgrades to our home. When looking at the aerial photography, we are able to observe each of these changes in five-year increments. Each aerial photograph is framed; hanging next to one another, chronologically, so our home is presented in a visually logical manner as to the improvements that were made. This mini history lesson allows our children to see their own home prior to their individual births and the changes that have happened in their lifetimes. Living on family property, there is a great sense of pride when looking at the improvements that have been created in your lifetime and with the knowledge that the property will remain in the family, these aerial photographs show just a glimpse of how life changes with each generation.

A pilot friend recently began to give aerial photography to clients, friends and business associates. This unique gift is traditionally quite expensive. However, he is able to give this gift, as he personally owns the plane and camera. To him, it has become a unique way of expressing his gratitude and friendship. However, to the recipients, it is priceless.

Author Details:
Andrew Kelly, copywriter for various websites including, Photo Gallery and The A to Z of Photography with his main interests being photography and travel.

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