Go Take A Photo Of An Airliner Landing
There is something really cool about watching a hunk of metal defy Mother Nature and fly through the air at the most dangerous point of the flight, low, right over your head, and then land on a hard piece of asphalt, all while contributing to your long term hearing loss.
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by matt.hintsa
This photography is fun and fast. The busier the airport, the better your chance of getting a good shot. Just pick a location with a view of the approach end of the runway (important detail) where you want to get the ideal angle of the airplane. Hey, you may even get a few good shots of an airliner taking off too.
Here are 15 examples to help show you where you may find a good angle to photograph airliners landing at your favorite airport. Another great site that is a host to a lot of great photographs of airplanes is airliners.net.
Swiss Air Lines A330-200 by caribb
Synchronicity by caribb
MD-80 by a Nose by caribb
Image by Joshua Davis Photography
perfect landing by atomicshark
Don't Go in the Water by matt.hintsa
American 757 by egm757lover
White on White by caribb
Plane Lands - You Can Almost Kiss It by bfraz
clash of the titans by picfix
Power Surge by caribb
Let the Moon Shine on Me by caribb
Image by daiji
747 x 2 by Ack Ook
55 Responses to “Go Take A Photo Of An Airliner Landing” - Add Yours
July 27th, 2009 at 2:07 am
Really??
Is this a competition to see who lasts the longest before being bound, gagged and beaten by ‘enthusiastic’ cops and rent-a-cops ‘protecting our freedoms’?
July 27th, 2009 at 4:00 am
OK, so do we print this and keep a copy of it in our back pocket for when TSA jockeys & the NSA arrest us for this type of photography? “It’s OK…. I saw it on the internet!” Not to be cynical, but I’m sure there have to be some legal implications.
July 27th, 2009 at 4:38 am
How does one manage to take such photos without being being arrested and assaulted by the TSA and such?
July 27th, 2009 at 4:48 am
@ William
That’s the exact same thiing I asked my self!
Excellent photographs… thanks dps…
July 27th, 2009 at 5:34 am
Many of these were taken in St Maarten at Maho Beach. It’s right on the final approach for the airport on that island.
Otherwise, there is normally no problem taking pictures as long as you outside the fence at the airport (obviously). You may be approached but in most cases there is no problem.
July 27th, 2009 at 5:50 am
Great images, but I would be very careful about taking pictures of planes next to an airport or before you know it you will be getting arrested for terrorism
July 27th, 2009 at 7:13 am
Some tips…
1. Observe all warning signs, stay off airport property (outside the fence), and be respectful and courteous to those who may approach you. Seems most horror stories you hear about TSA or security always tends to have an unruly, mean person who is causing a scene when being confronted. Do your research about airports before just strolling out there and clicking away. Check airport websites for rules and make phone calls if necessary.
2. Get permission. Every airport is different but some will issue you credentials to do photo shoots on the airport property. This may give you a safe vantage point and the opportunity for some even better photos. You can sometimes find this information on their websites.
3. Go to someplace outside of US. I was recently in Europe and came across and large airport where I could sit right there at the approach end of the runway and watch planes land. There were about 8 other photographers there and in talking to them, they said it was just fine to be there. Other countries may have less restrictions and many of the photos you see were taken outside of the US. Again, do your research.
4. Find out where others are taking their photographs. Go to airliners.net and Flickr and browse the photographs for locations or attempt to get in touch with the photographer to find out how they did it.
5. Don’t attempt this type of photography. Probably the safest way to stay out of trouble for those who are paranoid about being arrested.
If you do serious photography in public places, you are probably going to encounter security concerns at some point during these shoots. Whether or not the concern is real or just some security guard on a power trip, you’ll save yourself a lot of trouble if you do your research about the place you are planning to photograph and are friendly and responsive to any conflicts that may arise.
Hope this helps those with concerns.
July 27th, 2009 at 7:21 am
@bryan
Funniest response I’ve seen in a while.
July 27th, 2009 at 7:25 am
Let them arrest you. Go to the press. The more people makes a mockery of the stupid rules in some places around the world then the less chance there is of a jumped up security guard trying to exist his/her non-existent authority over you.
I have a collection of aircraft images I have taken at Sumburgh Airport, Scotland (EGPB) if anybody wants a look:-
July 27th, 2009 at 7:36 am
I took some wonderful shots at Pearson Airport in Toronto Canada. Yes, a cop did drive up and ask me some questions. All this after I took the best shots ever. I told him I’d move and then I drove home. Hell, I already got what I wanted.
It’s not that big a deal in Canada but I can just imagine in the US.
July 27th, 2009 at 7:52 am
check out my plain photo.
let me know if you like it.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikefendtphotography/3671836268/
July 27th, 2009 at 9:06 am
“Go Take A Photo Of An Airliner Landing”: in the UK this is an easy way to get oneself arrested under the “Prevention of Terrorism” Act, and then handed over to the Americanese FBI for a trip to the Guantánamo Bay Detention Camp. Even taking a photograph in the street can now result in the photographer being arrested and his or her equipment seized by our homegrown Gestapo.
Can we have sensible suggestions for assignments, please?
July 27th, 2009 at 9:39 am
It’s amazing how fearful so many people are of taking photographs. It’s an airplane, it flies overhead. Anyone can take a picture of it. You can take a photograph of anything you see, pretty much. Taking a photo of a plane landing isn’t going to help any terrorists do anything, but if you are afraid to to take a photograph at all I’d say that is a state of repression, and isn’t that what the terrorists want? People living in fear?
Go out and take pictures. Don’t be afraid to enjoy the world around you.
July 27th, 2009 at 9:55 am
@John
Not an assignment, just an idea for those searching for inspiration. Sounds like you’re stuck indoors in your city. Being a photographer isn’t always easy I guess.
July 27th, 2009 at 10:01 am
I really think most of these responses to this post are quite funny. With the gear and lenses available today, there are many places where one can set up to take aircraft photography. As long as you aren’t doing something completely stupid like trespassing around the fringes of airport property, you’re relatively safe in your endeavor.
It’s so funny that just like sensational media outlets, we can get one or two people who are approached by law enforcement, blow the story out of proportion as they recount the event on the internet…and then so many people read that account and treat it like the status quo.
I’ve shot near airports, in Subway stations and outside of major buildings in NYC, Chicago, Wash DC…I’ve walked hundreds of miles on city streets of the sames places and never have I ever been approached by the police, MTA, or any other law enforcement body.
If you want Fear Factor, watch it on TV. If you want to shoot some really cool assignments as you walk about your environment, then get out there and do it; just be smart about it.
July 27th, 2009 at 10:45 am
I managed to take some good shots North of Reagan National Airport (DCA). There is a good stretch of land.
July 27th, 2009 at 4:03 pm
I’ve taken a number of images inside of airports (all of aircraft). Whenever I see a TSA agent, I ask if it’s alright to snap a few pics of aircraft. Every one of them has said it’s perfectly alright. They typically go on to say that it’s ok to photograph anything inside the airport so long as it has nothing to do with security. We have a good (short) conversation and I snap some pics.
July 27th, 2009 at 6:13 pm
I am amazed by the fear I see in the comments! Makes me wonder what kind of repressive dictatorships you guys live in when you are afraid to take a picture at a plane overhead? Are all of the commenters from North Korea or Iran?
What about trains and buses. Do you dare take pictures of them?
Seriously, it is you guys that make me apprehensive of travelling to your countries, not the fears you try to protect yourselves from.
July 27th, 2009 at 11:54 pm
Its not as scary as you think.
http://www.planespotting.com/
July 28th, 2009 at 12:05 am
The BWI (Baltimore-Washington International) Airport outside of Baltimore, MD has a park where people set up to do this every day (or weekend day?). I haven’t gone out yet, but I’ve seen them there while I go on the bike trail. Check out the GPS coords on this photo to see where to go if you want to get some AWESOME landing shots.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/87734610@N00/3718520373
July 28th, 2009 at 12:42 am
I just love the thought of taking photos of those mamouth airplanes in flight. I used to be able to get pretty close as a boy, to Detroit Metro Airport. Now, you better keep moving, because if you pause even for a minute or two, you’ll likely be able to take photos of the homeland security officer with the flashing lights coming after you…..lol. But, I guess take what you can get and then….get out!
July 28th, 2009 at 12:46 am
I’d suggest printing out the photographers bill of rights (search for the pdf) and keeping that with you, really all the time but even for this assignment if you’re that worried. Basically, in the U.S., if you are on public property you can take pictures of pretty much anything you can see as long as there’s no assumed privacy (like someone using an ATM) or security (umm… police inspecting luggage?).
Also when approached by any law enforcement don’t immediatley go “OH $(@*” and start running. Just hold your ground and if they ask what you’re doing go ahead and tell them. If they tell you to leave, just leave. Unless you are friends with a lawyer to help enforce above laws then it’s not worth the time or hassle to fight it. But really if you just stand there and say “I’m a photographer, I’m just taking pictures of planes because they look cool” then they shouldn’t have any issues.
July 28th, 2009 at 1:29 am
But, I guess take what you can get and then….get out!
@Ken Morroco – From your last sentence it sounds as if you are trespassing during your photo taking session. Obviously, you would be harassed, even arrested and I can’t quite feel sympathy for that. I don’t think the OP ever intended on anybody trespassing or doing anything illegal to get these shots.
With a little investigation, there are usually many great vantage points available on public property where you can shoot all you want. Heck, you might even go crazy and set up a tripod some places. Granted, some airports are more visibly accessible than others, but there are still many opportunities for photos.
I’ve never been approached by law enforcement whether it be shooting airplanes, public buildings, bridges, etc. And with the bulk of my camera, it’s not as if I’m able to be covert about it either.
July 28th, 2009 at 1:36 am
night approach pattern photos … long exposures … big airport … now that ought to make for some kewl shots …
July 28th, 2009 at 2:49 am
One way to do it without getting hassled by the man is to get a little further out from the airport and shoot. For example here in the Charleston, SC area USAF C-17 aircraft routinely fly over the Tanger Outlet Center so when I want shots of them I just head over that way and wait for one to come flying overhead.
July 28th, 2009 at 10:33 am
I wouldn’t be surprised to see an increase in arrests made, after this post here.
What a wonderful idea!
July 28th, 2009 at 3:47 pm
Wow, looks like many readers freak easy.
I can think of about 3 dozen locations in my moderately sized city where I could go with my telephoto lens to get a picture of an airplane descending.
Really, nobody needs to squat at the airport fence and make a target out of themselves if that’s what people are worried about, just look UP, planes are everywhere.
July 28th, 2009 at 8:05 pm
i don’t want to belittle the fears expressed by people here, but it’s more imagined than real (except in the UK, where the government appears to be hell bent in making George Orwell’s 1984 a reality — for shame, UK!).
in general, you’re liable for arrest only if you do something really stupid, like trespassing. and even then, you’re not going to be arrested because you’re taking pictures but because you’re an unauthorized person in the airport security perimeter.
outside of the airport, an aircraft visible for all the world to see is also in perfect view to be photographed.
July 29th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
Which looks more suspicious? Beside your car just outside the airport fence, or hiding in the trees on a hill top?
July 30th, 2009 at 3:33 pm
Come to Sydney airport! Our authorities don’t have any problem with people sitting (outside the fence of course) on the final approach to the runway taking pictures of the planes landing. At any given time, there is at least one person taking photos or simply just watching the planes land.
July 31st, 2009 at 2:02 am
Unfortunately, in the USA it’s not paranoia to expect to be confronted for taking pics near an airport. While things might be changing some since the fear mongering administration is gone, it is advisable to think a little bit about it before jumping in to this assignment. There are plenty of good suggestions in the remarks.
I think it would have been wise to point this out in the original article, though.
July 31st, 2009 at 2:13 am
I sure am glad I don’t live in the paranoid police state, called the USA!
Come to South Africa. You are welcome to sit on final approach (outside the fence) to take photographs.
O.R.Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg has an observation deck, where you can also take photographs of the touchdowns!
Chris
July 31st, 2009 at 2:50 am
I’ve taken pictures at the DFW International Airport for years and never had a problem with any kind of security or law enforcement, even in the fall and winter of 2001. I’ve also done a lot of volunteer work with police. I think that as long as you’re in a publicly accessible area, you should generally be fine. That said, if you are approached by TSA or security or the police, just explain what you’re doing. Maybe even offer to show them the photos (assuming you’re shooting digital). Don’t cop an attitude with them. If they want so see identification, give it to them. If they ask (or tell) you to leave, then do it. They are just doing the job they’ve been told to do. Most of them won’t get aggressive about anything unless and until you throw up a brick wall. (Caveat: There are overly enthusiastic folks with inferiority complexes who like to abuse the badge they wear. Fortunately, they are exceptions, not the rule.)
July 31st, 2009 at 2:54 am
I was at the Le Bourge paris air salon this last june
and i have some very cool images of fighter and airline planes landing and taking off
i especially love this one of the new A380
http://www.flickr.com/photos/amirpaz/3643893837/in/set-72157619853869331/
and a cool take off of the euro fighter…
http://www.flickr.com/photos/amirpaz/3643906651/in/set-72157619853869331/
(i know its a bit off topic, but i just couldn’t resist, its too cool
)
Amir
July 31st, 2009 at 3:07 am
In the UK you will be arrested for sure. The public do nothing to stem Ingsoc becoming reality. They are super paranoid here.
I have had many incidents. I even had an incident were a member of the public called the cops on me for photographing hi-speed trains from a public park.
I wouldn’t go any where near London airport for fear of ending up at Paddington Green.(Anti-terror police station.)
July 31st, 2009 at 6:06 am
Noise levels from airplanes landing can be too harmful for your hearing, I’m not talking about just hearing loss but tinnitus, a condition caused by loud noise, which consists in having a ringing, buzzing, cricket chirping or an acute tone being heard 24/7 in your ears. This condition turns in a terrible nightmare for some, with loud tones constantly in their heads, no silence ever, no escape. Many commit suicide.
If you want to avoid this, please bring good enough earplugs each time you are going to be exposed to that sound levels (airplane shoots, concerts, clubs, very loud bars) and don’t make exceptions. Foam plugs give the best protection, but if you also want to be able to hear conversations, there is also special custom plugs used by musicians to lower the damaging frequencies. Don’t risk to loose your peace forever!
July 31st, 2009 at 6:09 am
Noise levels from airplanes landing can be too harmful for your hearing, I’m not talking about just hearing loss but tinnitus, a condition caused by loud noise, which consists in having a ringing, buzzing, cricket chirping or an acute tone being heard 24/7 in your ears. This condition turns in a terrible nightmare for some, with loud tones constantly in their heads, no silence ever, no escape. Many commit suicide…
If you want to avoid this, please bring good enough earplugs each time you are going to be exposed to that sound levels (airplane shoots, concerts, clubs, very loud bars) and don’t make exceptions. Foam plugs give the best protection, but if you also want to be able to hear conversations, there is also special custom plugs used by musicians to lower the damaging frequencies. Don’t risk to loose your peace forever!
July 31st, 2009 at 8:29 am
I was taking photographs of airplanes taking off and landing at the airport when I was stopped by the police. The officer asked for my drivers license. I was told it was not legal to take photographs of jets taking off or landing (the airlines do not appreciate it especially if it were involved in an accident). The officer asked why I was at the airport I said to pickup a relative. I had to give the flight detail which he called in and said that the flight landed. I was asked to go pick up my passenger. I noticed the officer followed me. So, please be careful!
July 31st, 2009 at 8:43 am
Take all the pictures of airplanes at the airports that you like. There is not law against it. Don’t give into Bush’s fearmongering about terrorists lurking around every corner.
July 31st, 2009 at 10:28 am
Unbelievable. Political views on a photography learning sight. I really don’t give a damn about your political views. Why can’t there be just ONE site without someones political views. Just ONE! There are thousands of political forums and blogs etc. Plenty of places to just let it all out. I’m here to learn about photography. To read the opinions of others about photography. I could care less about your political views. I have mine and you have yours and some else has theirs and whatever you say won’t change anyones views. So why even bother. Unless annoying others gives you some sort of joy. That would be a pretty pathetic life.
On subject,
I see people around a lot of US airports taking shots. Never bothered if following the guidelines.
July 31st, 2009 at 3:18 pm
I think the worries about shooting transit in the US are very real. Here’s one story: My son, who was 5 at the time, got a new camera and thought it would be cool to shoot the Metro train in DC. So we went for a ride one afternoon, and he waited in Dupont Circle for trains to pass to shoot some speeding train shots. We were quickly approached by DC police and told to stop. We did, but it freaked my son out completely.
It seemed more than a little silly that get so worked up over a 5 year old boy shooting his favorite thing–the Metro train.
July 31st, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Most U.S. airports are pretty tense about security. I used to take pictures on the beach by LAX, don’t know it that is still accessible.
The best plane photo I ever saw was in a recent copy of Popular Photography, July, 2009 (last page). If you can get a copy you will be blown away. The photo was taken on the island of St. Maarten. I have seen other photos taken at that location that are also awesome. The planes come in right over the water and a accessible beach, landing just a hundred yards from the beach. So, if you are planning any trips to the Caribbean, be sure to bring your camera along.
July 31st, 2009 at 7:33 pm
I double checked on that beach. It is Maho Beach in St. Maarten. If you go to Google Earth check out the photos at 18.02′ 21″.51N; 63 07’12″.01W.
August 1st, 2009 at 5:09 pm
hmmm taking pictures of planes and then being arrested, questioned and detained could make for an interesting photo story, article etc.
August 1st, 2009 at 6:57 pm
Paranoia, thats what it is, have any of you heard of that thing called common sense, I get a real feeling that you havent. A common courtesy is to ask permission, anyone asking permision first is treated with more courtesy and less suspicion than someone who just strolls up and starts snapping. I have never had a problem, including the week after 911 at both heathrow and SFO. Many airports have viewing area’s where you can go and snap to your hearts content. Just dont assume you can go anywhere, after all assumption is the mother of all F*** ups.
Ask
Be polite
Take no for an answer
August 2nd, 2009 at 11:33 am
Some really great images you have there.
August 2nd, 2009 at 11:53 pm
There are more concerns than just terrorism here folks. As an example, one thing that has become “popular” in the U.S. is to sit at the approach or departure end of a runway and point a laser pointer into the cockpit of an airliner at these critical phases of flight. As a joke, it’s meant to scare the crew into thinking they have a weapon pointed at them. On the serious end, it can cause serious distraction to the crew (at the very least) or even injury.
As a pilot, I can assure you this is no joke. That being said, taking pictures of airliners on approach is something I’ve enjoyed doing for years for obvious reasons. There needs to be common sense on both sides. Yes, it’s true that terrorists exist and have a history of targeting airliners in many fashions. To dismiss this is silly. But a photographer is no threat to an airliner and as long as no trespassing laws are being violated, a simple approach by security (who is in charge of making sure there isn’t an incident) and verifying there isn’t a threat is all that’s needed in most incidents.
I’ve been approached many times. All that is needed is a friendly “how’s it going officer” and a quick discussion of what you are doing and they continue on with their job.
August 4th, 2009 at 12:09 am
You forgot one thing – bail money! Maybe where you are it’s o.k. to shoot planes taking off/landing, but some places get real tense when you do that! Be careful and bring extra cigs and candy and DON’T drop your soap! Patrick
August 4th, 2009 at 8:28 pm
First of all these photos are great and I will defiantly be trying this.
Secondly, How daft!! I think it’s mad that people are so scared to do something that is completely legal and not at all threatening. If you are approached be polite and if they insist on moving you on…. go. Alternatively if you really don’t want to have to explain your innocent actions then don’t do it, it will be your loss. Common sense guys!
Thanks DPS for another unusual idea to widen our portfolios
August 4th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
You can get fairly good shots of planes approaching for landing at San Fransisco airport from Coyote Point, which is a public recreation area across the narrow bay. Entry is from 101N, first or second exit from San Mateo Bridge. There is a $5 entry fee to the park. As a bonus, you can get some nice shots of the yachts at the Marina and if lucky, some good wind surfing action too. Please feel free to check out few shots from this place using the link below, taken with a 70-300 Zoom lens on my Canon.
http://picasaweb.google.com/sknair.213/AirplanesLandingSFO?authkey=Gv1sRgCJLMqMi_97T8pwE#
August 5th, 2009 at 10:24 am
Interestingly John, I shot the DC Metro at multiple stations, both in the train and waiting for the train to approach. As I stated in an earlier post, I shoot with a 5DMkII so it’s not like I’m being inconspicuous. Either you simply got a guy having a bad day or there was something else that triggered them to react like that.
I’ve pretty much shot what I’ve wanted, where I’ve wanted, whenever I’ve wanted. I’ve always obeyed posted signs regarding photography and by doing so (and applying loads of common sense), I’ve never once been approached or asked to stop. I’ve shot in London, Paris, Hong Kong as well as Chicago, NYC, Washington DC among other places. This is all post-911 as well.
Just my .02 worth.
August 5th, 2009 at 10:30 am
Brent Says:
July 31st, 2009 at 8:43 am
Take all the pictures of airplanes at the airports that you like. There is not law against it. Don’t give into Bush’s fearmongering about terrorists lurking around every corner.
You were making a great point, right up until you had to throw in the Bush-bash. That ship has sailed. It’s time to move on…
August 6th, 2009 at 10:42 am
I have great photographs of jets in flight and some take offs but none of landings:( Ill work on that hopefully this weekend.
Phoenix airport has great places to get some photo ops in but im hoping a lil more adventure on this one.
August 7th, 2009 at 1:02 pm
It’s all fun and games till one of us gets busted and then you will wish you brought extra cigs and soap on a rope. It will happen sooner than you think!
June 15th, 2010 at 9:27 am
today at heathrow ariport terminal 1 , i found a place from where i can take a side shot of landing aircraft ,
Just when i was setting up my tripod and camera , 2 police van came in asked for my intention .
the point to be noted is that i am in a village, almost 2 mile away of the main terminal building and almost 200 meters away from the runway fence.
These 2 vans were full of police and they one by one got off and cordoned me just because i am taking a picture , it took me half an hour to make them understand that i am a photographer and not a terrorist.
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