Flying with FlyNYON: My Journey as a Photographer Above NYC
I first took to the skies with FlyNYON in 2019, looking for a unique way to capture New York City’s sprawling skyline. Little did I know that one flight would spark a deep passion—and open up new creative doors. Since that first “doors-off” adventure, I’ve been back in the helicopter countless times, shooting not just for fun but for clients as well. FlyNYON has become an essential part of my toolkit for capturing NYC from a perspective few get to experience.
Why FlyNYON?
The thrill of a doors-off helicopter ride over NYC is unmatched. As a photographer, FlyNYON offers everything you could want in an aerial experience: full access to unobstructed views, flexible routes, and the chance to shoot iconic sites like the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and Central Park from angles that ground-based shots just can’t deliver.
Planning the Perfect Shoot
With time and experience, I’ve refined my approach to getting the most out of each flight. FlyNYON offers flights at different times of day, and I highly recommend booking around golden hour or twilight. The softer light is more flattering to the skyline, creating beautiful contrasts and reflections off the skyscrapers and waterways.
Practical Tips for Fellow Photographers
If you’re thinking about flying with FlyNYON, here are some quick tips from my own experiences:
• Plan your camera gear: FlyNyon allows you to bring up two devices on a doors-off flight and you cannot change lenses in the air. Consider bringing one camera body with a wide lens and another body with a tighter lens or if you don’t have/need to bring two professional cameras, bring you phone too.
• Plan for Post-Processing: The light and haze can vary a lot over the city, so you may need to adjust color, contrast, and exposure later.
• Dress Appropriately: It’s a lot colder up there, especially on doors-off flights. Dress in layers, and don’t forget gloves if you’re flying in the colder months.
Why I Keep Coming Back
Each flight with FlyNYON brings fresh perspectives and new creative opportunities, no matter how many times I’ve been up. The city is constantly evolving, and weather, light, and seasonal changes always offer something different.
If you’re a photographer looking to add a new dimension to your craft—or if you simply want the thrill of a lifetime—I can’t recommend FlyNYON enough.
