Photography Tour/Workshop Guided by Hrach Hovhannisyan

Aviation photography is a thrilling niche that combines artistic vision with technical skill. Whether you're capturing images at an airshow, documenting historical aircraft, or shooting for a private client, preparation and precision are key. In this post, I’ll share practical tips to help you plan and execute successful aviation photography sessions. Cirrus SR22T photographed using a blend of strobe light and ambient light for a balanced and dynamic effect. 1. Understand Your Client’s Needs The first step in any aviation photography project is to understand the purpose of the shoot. Ask detailed questions such as: What type of aircraft will be photographed?  Knowing the make, model, and size is essential. For instance, shooting a small private jet will require different approaches compared to capturing a massive commercial airliner or a vintage biplane. What is the purpose of the photos?  Are the images meant for promotional materials, personal collections, or aviation publications? This will influence the style and composition of your shots. 2004 Cessna 680 Citation Sovereign photographed inside a hangar, specifically for sales purposes, showcasing its sleek design and features. 2. Choose the Right Location The location plays a vital role in aviation photography. Select a setting that complements the aircraft and suits the purpose: Runways and Hangars:  These are classic backdrops for most types of aircraft, offering an authentic aviation setting. In-flight Shots:  For dynamic imagery, consider capturing the aircraft in the air. This may involve a coordinated flight with another plane or using drones (where legally permitted). Specialized Events:  Airshows and fly-ins offer unique opportunities to capture a variety of aircraft in action. Clean Backdrops:  For professional or catalog-style shoots, a neutral environment like a private airstrip or a controlled hangar space can work best. With the sun illuminating the left side of the airplane, I used a strobe light to balance the lighting on the right side for an even exposure. 3. Master the Lighting Lighting is a critical factor in aviation photography due to the reflective nature of aircraft surfaces. Tailor your approach based on the scenario: Golden Hours:  Sunrise and sunset provide soft, warm light that highlights the aircraft’s contours beautifully. Be cautious with reflective surfaces, as they can pick up unintended color casts. Cloudy Days:  Overcast skies diffuse light evenly, reducing harsh reflections. This is ideal for static shots on the ground. Sunny Days:  Bright sunlight can create dramatic effects, particularly for glossy or metallic planes. However, be mindful of strong shadows and glare. For cockpit or interior shots, even lighting is essential. Use portable lights or natural shade to eliminate harsh contrasts. Curious to see how different lighting techniques enhance aviation photography? Visit my Aviation section for examples and inspiration. Due to the tight and limited space inside the Sherpa C-23 airplane, I opted for a smaller light (Godox AD200 Pro) to effectively capture the cockpit and all its intricate details. 4. Gear and Equipment Recommendations Having the right gear can significantly enhance your aviation photos. Here’s what I personally use: Canon 100-400mm Lens:  Ideal for capturing in-flight shots or zooming in on details from a distance. Canon 24-70mm Lens:  This versatile lens is great for medium-range shots, allowing you to capture both close-up details and wider perspectives. Wide-Angle Lens (16-35mm):  Perfect for interior or cockpit shots and capturing the full scale of larger aircraft. Tripod with Gimbal Head:  Helps stabilize your camera for long-distance or panning shots. Polarizing Filter:  Reduces glare and enhances reflections on the aircraft’s surface, but use it carefully to avoid losing natural highlights. Portable Strobe Lights (Small):  Compact lights like the Godox AD200 Pro  (or even smaller flashlights) are ideal for tight, limited spaces such as aircraft interiors. High-Powered Strobe Lights (Large):  For larger spaces and exterior shots, lights like the Godox AD600 Pro , Godox AD1200 Pro , or Siros 800 L  provide excellent power and versatility, ensuring professional-quality results even in challenging lighting conditions. Photographing the Sherpa C-23 airplane, owned by the US Forest Service, with a Canon 100-400mm zoom lens. A tripod was essential due to the long distance, ensuring sharp and detailed images. 5. Plan for High-End Photoshoots Shooting for high-profile clients or aviation magazines often involves additional preparation: Advanced Scouting:  Choose locations with clean backgrounds and minimal visual distractions. Coordinated Timing:  Plan for optimal weather conditions and ideal lighting. Collaboration:  Work with pilots and ground crews to capture specific angles or action shots. 6. Practical Tips for the Shoot Here are some extra tips to ensure a smooth photography session: Keep the Aircraft Clean:  A polished plane enhances the final image. Work with the crew or owner to ensure it’s cleaned and detailed before the shoot. Shoot from Various Angles:  Capture the aircraft from front, side, and 3/4 views. Don’t forget details like propellers, landing gear, and cockpit instruments. Use Reflections Thoughtfully:  Reflections can add depth and intrigue, but position yourself to avoid unwanted glare or distortions. Experiment with Motion:  Use a slow shutter speed to create motion blur in propellers or jet engines, adding a dynamic element to your photos. 1965 Cessna 182H Skylane captured with a well-balanced composition of strobe and ambient light. Both strobe and ambient shots were taken during the shoot and later composed together, ensuring the environment and background remain completely authentic. 7. Post-Processing Editing is where you can elevate your aviation photos to the next level. Adjust contrast, exposure, and white balance to enhance the aircraft’s features without altering its natural look. Be mindful of over-editing, as realistic tones and textures are vital in aviation photography. Sometimes, for Hero images , you can experiment and create composition shots, blending the aircraft into a different environment. These compositions need to be executed with extreme precision, ensuring they don’t look like “cheap Photoshop.” Correct shadows, ambient light, and the environment must align perfectly with the real picture to maintain professionalism. Some high-end clients may even require all images to be composites, significantly increasing editing time and complexity. This often involves additional editing fees and can expand the overall scope of the project, so it’s essential to discuss this upfront during planning. Experimental composition of the Cirrus SR22T created as a striking "Hero shot," showcasing the aircraft in a dynamic and captivating style. By following these tips and tailoring your approach to the specific aircraft and purpose, you’ll capture breathtaking images that resonate with aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether it’s a vintage warbird or a cutting-edge jet, preparation and creativity will set your work apart. Happy shooting!

Here, I’m sharing tips straight from my 7+ years of experience in real estate photography and videography. Whether you’re a realtor or a budding photographer, I hope these insights help you improve your skills. Good luck on your journey! :) Real Estate Photography Tips: Two Key Areas 1. Pre-planning 2. Equipment Pre-planning! Pre-planning is crucial. If your photoshoot isn’t well-prepared, fixing issues later can be a real headache. Here’s why and how to plan effectively. Always start by asking your client the right questions to gather all the essential details. Even if it’s a rush order, take a few minutes to ask these key questions: How big is the property (house, backyard, front yard)? Are there additional structures to photograph (barns, garages, guest houses)? Will you need to shoot video or aerial (drone) footage? What’s the property’s location? These questions will give you a clear idea of what to expect, how much time you’ll need, and which equipment to bring. For drone work, check airspace restrictions using apps and ensure your batteries are fully charged (always carry spares!). Another crucial detail is the house’s orientation and its surroundings. Why? Because sunlight makes a big difference. Whenever possible, capture the house’s “face” (main entrance) with natural sunlight. A well-lit main exterior shot can make a huge impact on potential buyers. If sunlight on the front isn’t an option (e.g., north-facing houses or cloudy Portland days), use what’s available. For instance, if the back of the house gets better light in the evening, plan to shoot interiors and front exteriors earlier, saving the well-lit back for last. Equipment! Let’s talk gear! I won’t recommend specific brands since there’s a wide range of great options, but I’ll share what I use and general requirements for high-quality real estate photography. 1. High-Quality Camera A full-frame camera is ideal. It should support multi-exposure shooting (5 to 7 exposures) for blending images later in Lightroom or Photoshop. This is especially important for interiors with mixed lighting. I personally use: Canon 5D Mark IV (primary) Canon 5D Mark II (backup) 2. Wide-Angle Lens Wide-angle lenses are essential but avoid extreme wide angles (like fisheye or 12mm) that distort lines. Stick to around 15-16mm for straight, clean lines. My go-to: Canon 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM (and planning to upgrade to the III version). 3. Tripod A sturdy tripod with a fluid head is a must for stable shots and straight lines. Look for one with leveling features. I use: Manfrotto Photo-Movie Tripod Head   4. Gimbal (Stabilizer) for Videography For smooth walk-through videos, a stabilizer is essential. My pick: DJI RS2   (worth the investment!). 5. Drone A drone is great for aerial shots. I use: DJI Mavic 2 Pro It works well with my phone, but a smart controller is a handy upgrade if your budget allows. For more hands-on guidance, check out our photography classes , where you’ll learn the practical skills needed to succeed in real estate photography and videography. You can see the full list of my photography and videography gear, including lighting tools and accessories, in a separate post.

Car photography is an exciting field that blends creativity with technical expertise. Whether you're shooting for a client, a car dealership, or just capturing beautiful images for an enthusiast, there are key steps to follow to ensure your photos stand out. In this post, I’ll share some practical tips that will help you plan and execute a successful car photography session. 1. Understand Your Client’s Needs The first step in any car photography session is to understand what your client wants. Ask specific questions like: What car needs to be photographed?  Knowing the make, model, year, and color of the car is crucial. For example, dark-colored cars can be more challenging to shoot during sunrise or in dimly lit areas, whereas lighter-colored cars are more forgiving. What’s the purpose of the photos?  Is this a personal project, a keepsake for a proud owner, or are the photos meant to sell the car on platforms like Bring a Trailer? Knowing the purpose will help shape your approach. 2. Choose the Right Location The location can make or break a car photography session. Match the setting to the car’s style and the purpose of the shoot: Vintage Cars:  A countryside backdrop or a quiet, rustic area often enhances the nostalgic feel of classic cars. Sports Cars:  Urban environments with sleek architecture or modern cityscapes create the perfect vibe for fast and stylish vehicles. General Sale Photos:  A neutral, distraction-free environment works best. Wide open areas like empty parking lots, church grounds, or industrial spaces can be great options. Look for places with minimal traffic and clean, natural or neutral backgrounds to keep the focus on the car. 3. Pay Attention to Lighting Lighting plays a crucial role in car photography, and the approach depends on the type of photoshoot: Sunrise and Sunset:  These times are perfect for high-end or artistic car photoshoots. However, be cautious of the warm tones, as they can alter the perceived color of the car. For example, a silver car may appear golden in warm light. To maintain accurate colors, aim to shoot shortly after sunrise or just before sunset when the light is softer and more neutral. Cloudy Days:  Overcast skies act like a giant softbox, diffusing light evenly and reducing harsh shadows and reflections. This makes cloudy days ideal for regular car sale photoshoots, as they produce clean, professional results. Sunny Days:  While cloudy days have their advantages, sunny days can also work well, especially for vivid-colored sports cars. Bright sunlight can highlight bold, aggressive colors and make them pop, creating a more striking image. The choice ultimately depends on the photographer's style and the desired visual impact. Shooting Interiors:  Avoid partial shade for interior shots—it creates uneven lighting and distracting sunspots. Instead, park the car in full shade, such as under a tree or a large structure. This provides even lighting across the cabin, making it easier to capture details without harsh contrasts. To see how lighting affects different types of car photography, check out my car photography portfolio here . You'll notice how light influences the mood and appeal of each image! This was a for sale photoshoot, but we decided to find some cool location and ended up at Mount St. Helens in Washington. 4. Gear and Equipment Recommendations The right gear can elevate your car photography. Here’s what I personally use: Canon 100-400mm II Zoom Lens:  This lens is perfect for capturing exterior shots with a beautiful depth of field. I often use a tripod and shoot close to ground level for an eye-catching perspective. Canon 24-70mm II Lens:  This versatile lens is my go-to for medium-range shots and detailed close-ups of features like headlights, wheels, and badges. Canon 16-35mm II Lens:  For interior shots, this wide-angle lens helps capture the car's cabin without distortion. No matter the lens, always carry a sturdy tripod, especially for zoom shots or low-light conditions. The car owner was kindly assisting by holding the strobe light for nicer results! 5. Plan for High-End Photoshoots If you’re photographing a brand-new model or shooting for a car company, the process can be more complex. High-end photoshoots might involve: Advanced Planning:  Scouting the perfect location, selecting the ideal time of day, and preparing backup locations for weather changes. Controlled Lighting:  Using portable lights or reflectors to highlight the car’s exterior and interior features. Teamwork:  Larger projects may require assistants, stylists, or even additional equipment like car-mounted rigs for action shots. 6. Practical Tips for the Shoot Here are some additional tips to keep in mind during the session: Keep the Car Clean:  A spotless car is essential. Ask your client to ensure the car is washed, waxed, and detailed before the shoot. Shoot from Multiple Angles:  Capture a variety of perspectives—front, rear, side, and 3/4 angles. Don’t forget interior shots and close-ups of unique details. Use Reflections Wisely:  Reflections can either enhance or detract from your shot. Position the car carefully to avoid distracting reflections of you or the surroundings. Experiment with Depth:  Play with aperture settings to create shallow depth of field for a sharp car against a soft, blurred background. Consider a Circular Polarizing (CPL) Filter:  A CPL filter can be a game-changer in car photography. For instance, it allows you to control reflections, such as making the windshield appear darker and sleeker. (I use the Hoya CPL  for my shoots.) However, be cautious when adjusting reflections on the car’s sides. Overusing the CPL can flatten the car’s reflections too much, potentially losing some of the elegant curves and design details, especially on sports or luxury cars. Use the CPL thoughtfully to enhance the car's features without diminishing its design. Without CPL filter (pay attention to the windshield) With CPL filter (no reflections on windshield!) 7. Post-Processing Editing is where your photos truly come to life. Adjust the exposure, contrast, and white balance to make the car pop. Be mindful not to over-edit; keep the colors and tones natural to preserve the car’s true appearance. By following these tips and tailoring your approach to the specific car and purpose of the shoot, you’ll be able to capture stunning automotive photos that leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re shooting a vintage beauty in the countryside or a sleek sports car in the city, preparation and attention to detail will set your work apart. Happy shooting!

People Photographing people has always been one of the most important, fun and sometimes difficult parts of photography in general! Join us to learn more about how to capture people in different environments, how to get the best lighting and compositions, and of course, how to immortalize the emotions..... Learn & Practice how to photograph people. Click here. Portraits Kids Headshots Senior Lifestyle Couples

Portraits Capture Your True Personality with Professional Portrait Photography Everyone deserves stunning, high-quality portraits that showcase their unique personality, regardless of skin color, gender, ethnicity, profession, or lifestyle. At HH Photography, we specialize in capturing authentic, vibrant images that reflect who you are—whether it’s for corporate headshots, family portraits, solo shoots, sports and active shots, lifestyle photography, or candid moments. Explore the amazing people we've had the opportunity to photograph and envision how we can create your perfect portrait. Ready to book your session? Contact us today for more details or to schedule your professional portrait shoot in the Portland area and beyond. Dancers Photography

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