Over the past 6 years, I've had the chance to develop my skills with the Tyler Middle Mount and other aerial formats. I started working for several Michigan based boat manufacturers. Initially, we used the Steadicam as a way to stabilize the camera when we shot running footage boat to boat. While this is a possible way to acquire the footage, it quickly became obvious that there were better options.

It was then that I teamed up with camera pilot Paul Barth for the first time. Since then, my favorite way to shoot running footage of boats is from a helicopter utilizing the Tyler Middle Mount.

The Middle Mount is good for any object that you can track next to or wrap around. We have also used it extensively for shooting factories and other large buildings.

In addition to working in helicopters, I've also made shots out of fixed wing aircraft. Usually this involved removing the side door of the aircraft and strapping a tripod inside the fuselage. It can make nice shots of buildings, landscapes and other aircraft, but wouldn't work for moving objects on the ground or water.

I enjoy the collaborative nature of aerial photography. Achieving an excellent shot is certainly a team effort between the cameraman and pilot.

Below is a reel of shots from some of my boating work.