Photographer Spotlight: Carolyn H Photography
Follow Carolyn on IG, FB and X
IG - @carolynh527 / FB - Carolyn H Photography / X - @CarolynH527
http://carolynhinton.com
How did you get started in aviation photography?
Several years ago I was the activities director for a local camera club, I took them out to a couple of airshows because I thought they were awesome. Not long after, the Sun 'n Fun photography team came under new leadership and started recruiting new photographers. They found my portfolios online and reached out. While personally, I have never really wanted to become a pilot, I have always been interested in aviation, so I thought I'd give it a shot.
What was your first aviation photography experience like?
My first year with Sun 'n Fun I was a bit skeptical about the whole thing because I didn't know what to expect, and I only attended for 2 days. But it turned out to be a great experience. I met incredibly supportive people who shared and understood my interest in aviation and my love for photography, which was not something I had experienced before. It felt amazing to have this group that I could learn from and who accepted me. So I came back the following year, and the year after that, and stayed a bit longer each time. Now, eight years later, I am still on the team, and my role has grown to include things like writing their policies and procedures.
What unique airplanes have you photographed?
Last year I had the opportunity to attend the final Reno Air Races. They host several racing categories, each for a different type of aircraft. I really enjoyed this, because everything about it was very different, even the landscape. There was actually a T-6 race team from Lakeland that I met and hung out with at Reno, so it kinda felt like rooting for the home team. (they won by the way) While they still held a few show demonstrations, it was really all about the racing.
What is your favorite photo you've ever taken and why?
This is tough, but I would have to say that I haven’t taken it yet, there is just so much more to see. Don’t get me wrong, the jets are awesome, but it’s not all about the close-up heavy metal afterburners. In general, the images I tend to like most are ones that seem to tell some sort of story or have a unique perspective. Fireworks from the top of a helicopter, ribbon cuttings, airplanes racing across the finish line, a panoramic of hot air balloons, that sort of thing.
Do you attend air shows? If so, which ones are your favorite?
While I do enjoy smaller aviation related projects, and would like to have more time to do them, most of what I shoot is at airshows. I’ve attended several throughout Florida, the beach ones are nice because I like to hang out on the beach, Reno was an interesting change. But my favorite is definitely Sun ‘n Fun, because of the history I have with them, and it’s the second largest airshow in the nation. Although, I have yet to make it to EAA’s Air Venture, but I will someday, I do enjoy traveling and no two places are the same. Hopefully the dates will work out in 2025 and I’ll be able to attend the races at their new venue in Roswell.
Do you have any fun or interesting stories from your experiences at air shows or while photographing airplanes?
A couple years ago I flew in the jump plane with the Golden Knights skydiving team. This was the first time I flew in an open aircraft, as the doors were off for the entire flight. It was so cold and windy that after we finally landed I got off the airplane and just laid down on the tarmac in the sun for a few minutes.
What tips would you give to aspiring aviation photographers?
Go out and do it! Don’t get discouraged, or compare yourself to others. Remember that photography is an art. Don’t think you need the latest and greatest (or most expensive) equipment. The first shows I photographed using a small APS-C camera with a hand-me-down 300 zoom lens. Don’t be afraid to get up early for sunrises, learn how to read the sky and use light the way you want. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. I shot over half a terabyte worth of imagery at the last Sun ‘n Fun, much of it was not of airplanes in the sky. Practice, practice, and more practice. As you do it more, you will meet people, learn new things, and develop your own style.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your aviation photography experience?
Photography is such a wide genre, I am constantly looking for new ways to challenge myself. I recently taught myself about full spectrum photography and learned how to create near-infrared images, which is something I still want to incorporate into my aviation work. Currently I am studying for my Part 107, so wish me luck!
Follow Carolyn on IG @Carolynh527
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Follow Carolyn on IG @Carolynh527 〰️
I’m on a mission to gather some incredible pilot stories to feature on the On Final blog. Whether you’re just beginning your flight training or you’ve been soaring through the skies for years, I want to hear from you!
Your experiences and stories can inspire others in the aviation community, and I’m excited to share them on the blog. If you’re up for it, please send me your story and some photos through the link below:
