Flight-1, Brian Germain, and Greg Windmiller might be able to teach you how to land your canopy safely, but they don't teach what is arguably the most important skill for a canopy pilot to master. What could be more important than being a safe canopy pilot? Being a photogenic canopy pilot! Here are some tips for maximizing your exposure on SkydivingStills.com.
To start, remember your landing priorities from AFF? Yeah, forget those. Wing level? What fun is that? No obstacles? No spectacular crashes! Flare? Please. PLF? More like faceplant! If you want decent pictures, you have new priorities...
Find the camera

Find the Sun

Try to land with the sun behind the photographer. When you are in between the photographer and the sun, the pictures will be backlit. This often makes the sky too bright and the colors muted.


On the other hand, sometimes backlit pictures can be nice. Please help control the brightness of the sun by covering it with your canopy.
Choose an appropriate landing direction


When landing to the North, you'll get the best light near the North treeline.

If your shadow is in front of you, you've probably chosen a less than ideal landing direction.

Landing in the opposite direction of other canopies can often make for spectactular pictures. The key is to maintain close proximity to the other canopies. Otherwise only one can be in focus at a time and the effect is less dramatic.
Choose an appropriate distance from the camera


Or too close. Remember, you are not trying to tackle the photographer.

Try to be juuuuust right.

If you want your whole canopy in the picture, land a bit farther away. And remember to leave room for your bridle!
Where'd the plane go?


Is the Moon out?


Make a great face



Kick up the peas, dirt, grass, or snow




Land in groups


Fall with style





Avoid your own canopy's shadow




Dress for success



Eye Contact


