Aerials using a D-SLR

I have a quick question related to using a digital SLR, such as the EOS 5D, for

aerial photos. If you are the pilot of the plane and would also like to snap

the shots (sounds dangerous but it can be done safely) doesn't it become very

inconvenient to use a digital SLR that will not allow you to use the LCD

viewfinder for composing your photos? This is a very basic question from

someone without the experience? Thanks...

As someone who is an IR rated pilot (both USA and UK) and takes aerial photos (but not at the same time!), you can't fly and take photos at the same time safely. VFR rules... you look out the window to see other traffic, IFR rules... you have your eyes strictly "in the office".

Get someone else to fly and the viewfinder is fine.

I usually put the aircraft where I want it and then hand over to the pilot to fly, giving them instructions as required. I concentrate on the photo stuff and they fly the aircraft.

Regards

Simon

While the EOS 5D is a very capable camera you might want to consider something like the far less expensive Sony R1 which does have a live finder and a full size sensor. Just a thought, but I can't help but agree with the other guy that says get yourself a photographer and leave the pilot of fly the plane.

Cheers

Greg

Have you read this:

http://www.photo.net/learn/aerial/primer

A nice little primer on aerial photography right here on photo.net.