DESCRIPTION:
This workshop is designed for photography enthusiasts who want to explore the art of aerial photography and capture stunning views of the beautiful city of San Francisco from a unique perspective — a helicopter. During this workshop, participants will learn the technical and artistic aspects of aerial photography while flying over some of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks.
The workshop will begin with a brief introduction to the equipment and techniques used in aerial photography, including camera settings, lenses, and stabilization methods. Participants will learn how to prepare their equipment for a helicopter ride and how to safely capture breathtaking aerial images while in flight.
Once in the helicopter, participants will have the opportunity to photograph a range of iconic San Francisco landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Coit Tower, and the Transamerica Pyramid. The workshop will also cover composition techniques such as framing, leading lines, and perspective to help participants create dynamic and engaging aerial photographs.
Throughout the workshop, participants will receive individualized guidance and feedback from Stephen Vanasco, who has extensive experience in aerial photography and working from a helicopter. Participants will have the chance to review and discuss their photographs with the group, gaining valuable insights and feedback on their work.
By the end of the workshop, participants will have a solid understanding of both the technical and artistic aspects of aerial photography, as well as a collection of stunning aerial images of San Francisco’s unique urban landscape. This workshop is suitable for photographers of all levels who are interested in exploring the unique perspective of aerial photography and capturing breathtaking views.
Topics Covered:
- Discussion on the importance of aerial photography in an ever-changing and evolving world.
- The ability to have a new understanding of a land/cityscape from the air, especially if it is your hometown.
- Dive into the causes and effects of various focal lengths from the air as well as camera settings and techniques.
- Discuss looking beyond the general view and learning to recognize textures and patterns.
Who Should take this workshop:
This workshop is open to adventurous photographers looking to learn new specialized skills that can only be developed in the air. Visitors will enjoy an unparalleled view of San Francisco in late summer, while locals will see their city from an exciting and inspiring new angle.
What to Know about this workshop:
This is a masterclass weekend designed to challenge photographers in an environment few have the opportunity to experience. Participants will be split into two separate flight groups and paired with an instructor for their journey. Each helicopter flight will last 1 hour over the iconic cityscape of San Francisco. After the flight, participants will break for independent editing before rejoining the group for critique and feedback the following day.
Agenda:
Friday – August 22, 2025
3:30pm–5:30pm – Meet & Greet at Leica Store San Francisco
Saturday – August 23, 2025
9:00am–9:30am – Meet at Leica Store San Francisco for shuttle to Hayward Airport
9:30am–10:00am – Safety Briefing with Pilots
10:00am–11:00am – Flight Group 1 & 2
11:30am–12:30pm – Flight Group 3 & 4
1:00pm – Lunch & break for editing separately
Sunday – August 24, 2025
10:00am–10:30am – Arrival / Check-In
10:30am–1:00pm – Group Critique
1:00pm–2:00pm – Lunch
2:00pm–3:30pm – Printing Images
3:30pm–4:00pm – Open Q&A
Locations:
Leica Store San Francisco
463 Bush St
San Francisco, CA 94108
Specialized Aviation
1 Tuskegee Airman Drive
Hayward, CA 94545
Registration for this event closes 24-hours before each class begins to solidify attendance. Please feel free to email any questions or concerns to AkademieUSA@Leica-Camera.com
AT-A-GLANCE
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Dates
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