When you dream about carving fresh powder and capturing awe-inspiring heliboarding photos, there are a few things to keep in mind before you step onto that helicopter. This ultimate guide walks you through everything, from choosing the right gear to nailing your camera settings, so you head home with images as stunning as the experience itself.
Embrace the adventure
Heliboarding blends the luxury of helicopter travel with the thrill of untouched slopes. You get dropped off on a remote peak and make your way down while soaking in sweeping mountain panoramas. It is not just about chasing epic runs, though. You also want vivid photos that truly reflect the grandeur of your adventure in the sky.
- Enjoy the bird’s-eye perspective only a helicopter can provide
- Keep an eye out for unique angles and dramatic light shifts
- Revel in the moment: you are gliding over pristine snow few people ever ride
If you want to learn more about the basics before you jump in, check out this primer on heliboarding to get your bearings.
Gear up for the perfect shot
Dress wisely
Nothing ruins a photo mission faster than freezing fingers or fogged-up goggles. Because of the wind and weather extremes, you will want to wear:
- A high-quality waterproof shell rated 20k or above (GORE-TEX® or similar)
- Breathable layers like a base layer, mid-layer jacket, and shell to prevent overheating
- A Buff or similar face covering to protect from biting winds and bright sun
The better you can see and move, the easier it is to grab your camera from your pack, frame your shot, and capture the moment.
Pick the right camera gear
Helicopters travel at speeds up to 150 miles per hour, so design your camera setup for stability and flexibility:
- A DSLR or mirrorless camera with fast autofocus
- Wide-angle lenses (like a 16-35mm) to capture more of the breathtaking surroundings
- A comfortable camera strap to keep your device secure
- Spare batteries, memory cards, and even an extra lens in case conditions change
Consider using image stabilization lenses too. These help counter helicopter vibrations so you get crisp shots instead of shaky blurs.
Master your camera techniques
Try shutter priority mode
In a constantly moving helicopter, quick shutter speeds are essential. It is often easiest to shoot in shutter priority (TV mode for Canon or S mode for Nikon). When you let the camera handle metering, you can focus on these key settings:
- Shutter speed around 1/300 second or faster
- ISO settings starting near 400 for daytime clarity
- Autofocus in Servo mode so it can track moving subjects
Trust your gear to handle small exposure changes while you compose the scene and keep pace with the helicopter’s motion.
Focus on vantage points
The thrill of heliboarding photos lies in capturing dramatic panoramas and action sequences. Once you land on a high alpine slope, look for interesting lines and contrasting elements—think jagged ridges, cloud-dappled peaks, or even your fellow snow adventurers carving below you.
- Hang back slightly if you are shooting riders ahead
- Position yourself above key features, such as cliff drops or switchbacks
- Use uncluttered backgrounds, like a clean treeline or open powder field, to emphasize your subject
Remember to pause and appreciate the grandeur. Don’t just snap, zip off, and miss the natural beauty all around you.
Remember safety and comfort
Nothing is more important than staying safe in the backcountry. Reliable heli-snowboarding operators will supply crucial safety gear (avalanche beacons, radios, shovels, probe poles) and ensure you are well-versed in emergency protocols:
- Wear a certified helmet for extra head protection
- Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue
- Be mindful of sudden weather changes and follow your guide’s instructions at all times
When your tank is full and your mind is alert, you are far more likely to relax and take brilliant pictures.
Wrap up your editing
Once you get home, sorting through hundreds of shots can be both exciting and overwhelming. For aerial and mountain photos, simple edits can elevate the final look:
- Increase sharpness slightly if helicopter vibrations made images a bit soft
- Start with a gentle preset or basic curve adjustment for color correction
- Use a graduated filter on the sky if it appears too bright
- Keep enhancements realistic so your images remain authentic to the experience
A straightforward workflow with small adjustments often highlights the raw energy of your heliboarding trip.
Final thoughts
Snapping unforgettable heliboarding photos is about balancing skill, luck, and a sense of wonder. With the right layers to keep warm, a camera setup built for speed, and a focus on safety, you will be ready to document every thrilling moment in the air and on the slopes. Enjoy each landing, look around for dynamic angles, and let the mountains guide both your ride and your next great shot.