The Certified Aerial Photographers Program conducted by the Professional Aerial Photographers Association, International (PAPA), is a short educational course designed to provide and test for a basic technical skill set specific, for the aerial photographer. The program includes specific training information and review in aviation safety knowledge, technical camera operations and photographic safety skills as it applies to photography from an airplane or helicopter, along with knowledge of governmental rules and regulations that apply to an aerial photography business. A number of aerial photographers still rent airplanes or helicopters to use for their assignments and there are aerial photographers who own their own airplances.helicopters. This basic certification does not cover or endorse any knowledge on producing quality photographic images and or reviews in any manner, any photographic skill capabilities , digital file post production or actual photographic work produced by the individual. The knowledge required for this basic certification is validated through a PAPA administered/proctored testing process currently available at PAPA authorized conferences. Time necessary for certification is generally about 4 hours of class time + plus testing time.
The Certified Master Aerial Photographer program is the highest designation for aerial photographic skills that an active member of PAPA can earn and be awarded. The certification is based upon the accumulation of earned points for diverse photographic activities including: 10 points earned by -
- participation within PAPA, attending continuing annual 2 day conferences (1 pt)
-taking an active part in the association’s continuing educational programs
-giving a presentation ( 1 pt) at conferences demonstrating skills in different areas helping to educate other members.
- Earning a score of 80 or more on 15-16×20 prints (Limit 4 per conference) prints judged by a panel of 5 experts in PAPA’s sanctioned competitive photographic events. Prints are judged on print quality, impact and composition.
The Master certification title is earned over years of business practice and experience, illustrating a well-rounded knowledge of the skills needed to produce high quality images and operating a successful business of aerial photography, based on the ethical standards set by PAPA..
The PAPA Master Certified Aerial Photographer (MCAP) is the combined designation for the PAPA members who have successfully achieved both their Certified Aerial Photographer designation and have invested the time to earn their Master Aerial Photographer title, demonstrating their skills. An aerial photographer with this designation, MCAP, assures the client who hires such a person, will receive a high level of service and high quality images designed fully to satisfy the photographic specifications of a project.
