Definition
The taking of photographs from an aircraft in flight, typically for purposes such as mapping, surveying, reconnaissance, real estate, agriculture, news, or scientific observation. Aerial photography may be conducted with the camera pointed straight down (vertical) for mapping work, or at an angle (oblique) to show terrain features in a more natural perspective.
Plain English
Taking photos from an airplane while it is flying, usually to map an area, study the ground, or get pictures that can't be taken from below.
Context Anchor
Seen in photo flights for mapping, survey work, inspection, news, real estate, construction progress, and similar flying jobs.
Derivation
From the Latin 'aer' meaning air, combined with 'photography' (from Greek 'photos' meaning light and 'graphein' meaning to write or draw). Literally 'writing with light from the air' — a useful reminder that the aircraft is just the platform; the work is the photograph.
Why Pilots Care
Aerial photography flights often require precise altitude, heading, and speed control to get usable images, and may involve flying patterns or low passes that demand careful planning. Pilots conducting these flights must also be aware of airspace rules and any restrictions on photographing certain areas.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as just casual picture-taking from an airplane. In aviation use, aerial photography often means a planned flight made to capture useful images from above.
Example Sentence 1
The pilot flew a series of straight, level passes over the property to allow the photographer to complete the aerial photography for the survey.
Example Sentence 2
Aerial photography missions often require coordination with air traffic control for restricted airspace access.