RE: Aerial Photography?

["Rote, Michael C" <michael.c.rote@xxxxxxxx>]

Just to add my two cents worth. 

If you can find someone with the French Dolphine (sp?) helicopter, they are
worth the extra expense. I've flown in them several times, as well as other
types. They are smooth as glass. The last time, the sky went to hell within
about 15 minutes of our scheduled take off. I had to go, no choice, I ended
up shooting with a Hassy 50mm loaded with VPS at 125th@xxxx I thought I was
going to be lucky if I got a reasonable image - ended up sharp as a tack. I
attribute this entirely to the extremely stable and smooth ride of this
helicopter. 

I also second the idea of spending the money for an experienced craft and
pilot. As was stated earlier, it's YOUR life. When you're looking down and
the only thing between you and the ground is 500-1500 ft of empty air, this
is no time to skimp. Also a good idea to have an assistant inside the cabin
with you, if there's room, to be able to hand off extra pre-loaded film mags
or lens changes. They can also keep a hand on whatever device you are
strapped to while you are hanging out the door. This helps keep and even
resistance on this device to take up any "slop" besides being able to pull
REALLY hard should a gust or slippery feet cause you to loose your footing!
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