The growing popularity of aviation spotting
In recent years, aviation spotting has surged in popularity worldwide. This thrilling hobby has attracted enthusiasts from all walks of life who share a passion for capturing breathtaking images of an aircraft in action. From the casual observer to the seasoned professional, aviation spotters worldwide are united by their fascination with the marvel of flight in all its shapes. The practice of aviation spotting can be traced back to the early days of World War II and had nothing to do with passion or hobby but with need. As radar was in its early days, the spotters were the most efficient early warning system. These were trained civilians who could recognize all kinds of aircraft types. Positioned in the proper places, they kept their eye on the sky and, when they spotted an aircraft that was not supposed to be there, gave the alarm. And the rest is history.
After World War II, spotters were no longer needed as radar was now the guardian of the sky. Technology kicked the spotters out but also back in. Things began to change with the appearance of point-and-shoot cameras, DSLRs (digital single-lens reflex), and other technical marvels accessible to almost everyone. The digital era was in. In its early days, digital cameras, both photo and video, were not that performant and cheap. But slowly, as technology evolved, things started to change. More and more people bought these cameras. Now, anyone could be a photographer or videographer with a small effort. And spotters reappeared. This time around, airports, airfields, airbases, and any other place where an aircraft is stationed, flying, taxing, landing, or taking off. This activity has evolved so much that more and more airports worldwide are creating special places for spotters to enjoy their aviation spotting hobby.
How many types of aviation spotting are there?
Aviation spotting has significantly evolved these days, and it is not just sitting at a fence hoping to get the best photo of a plane. Aviation spotting involves different activities and events such as spotting day, open day for spotters, airshows, and spotting activities at airports and airfields. These organized events are meant to provide enthusiasts with an immersive experience while offering numerous opportunities for capturing awe-inspiring images. From sunrise to sunset, spotters are granted unprecedented access to aviation facilities that are typically off-limits to the public. Participants can set up their cameras and equipment in designated areas around the runway to capture some fantastic images. Guided tours of the airport’s facilities, including the control tower, hangars, and maintenance areas, provide an insider’s look at the complex operations that keep the airport running smoothly. An airshow is another excellent opportunity for aviation spotting as they are offered special designated places to take photos of the event. Basically, taking photos of aircraft is aviation spotting. You can do that in your garden if planes are flying above or even on the roof of your house if you get the chance to have an aircraft flying around.
Is aviation spotting an expensive hobby?
Well, that depends on how much you are willing to spend. Some spotters put a lot of money into their hobby to buy equipment such as photo or video cameras, lenses, tripods, etc. Some invest in websites where they post their work. There is minimal investment because you do need some equipment. The total amount can start from a few hundred euros and go up to as much as you can afford or are willing to spend. It is a costly hobby. There are alternatives to having your websites, such as social media accounts, YouTube, forums, and different websites specialized in hosting aviation photography. These are for free. The only cost is your time and work to post your photos and videos. Or you can sit on the ground and enjoy the excellent weather and aircraft. That is aviation spotting as well, and it’s cost-free.
So, is aviation spotting for you?
Well, that depends totally on you. For some people, this kind of activity is highly boring. For others, it’s well-spent free time. But in the end, you must remember that it is not a competition but a hobby, something you do because you enjoy it. And it is all about the experience, not necessarily the need for great images or extremely costly equipment.
