Aerial photography is that kind of photography that involves taking pictures from a unique and different point of view and is perhaps one of the most fascinating kinds of photography today.

Origin

Conventionally, aerial photography refers to taking photographs with cameras that are overhead and mounted on some airborne medium like an aircraft, kite, a balloon and similar tools. A French airman named Nadar was the first person to develop aerial photography back in 1858. Aerial photography found purpose in the Second World War military operations. The military used aerial photography for the purpose of spying and for assessing the battle ground. In this way they gained a realistic and updated impression of the current situation and topography in a particular area.

Uses

There are a number of conceivable uses for aerial photographs taken from above. Photos taken from above are used for the preparation of topographic maps, in planning land use, in cartography, production of movies, espionage, commercial advertising, environmental studies, archeology and other fields.

The advancement in technology has not failed to affect aerial photography. Progress in radio technology now facilitates the utilization of aircraft models that can be controlled by radio for taking low altitude photographs. This is used vastly for advertising real estate deals. This is due to the fact that aircrafts that are manned are prohibited from flying in low altitudes especially in densely populated regions. Instead this task can be given to radio controlled aircrafts that have proven to be very efficient.

Public Domain

Aerial photographs come under the public domain, as the pictures are taken from above, which can be called a public place.

There are a number of ways of viewing aerial photographs online. The Google Earth software by Google is the best example. This software provides satellite imagery and aerial photographs of the earth. This service actually allows you to search for specific places such as restaurants, parks, hotels and schools. This software also helps you track the best route to get to a specific location. The aerial photographs can also be viewed from different angles by rotating or tilting them.

These are just a few basics about aerial photography. If you find this topic interesting and wish to learn more, you can always browse through material at your local library or on the internet which it teeming with information on the topic.