Photography Tips for the Abbotsford Airshow

Capture the Action, Master Your Camera — And Take Off with Our New Bootcamp!

The Abbotsford International Airshow is one of the most thrilling events for photographers in the Fraser Valley. From fast-flying fighter jets to elegant aerobatic displays, it offers a unique opportunity to practice action photography in a high-energy setting.

But capturing that perfect shot of a jet streaking across the sky requires more than just being in the right place. It demands an understanding of exposure, focus, timing — and a bit of pre-planning.

Whether you’re a beginner with a new camera or an enthusiast looking to sharpen your skills, here are some essential tips to make the most of your airshow photography experience.

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1. Use Shutter Priority or Manual Mode

Speed is everything at an airshow. Shooting in Shutter Priority mode (Tv or S) lets you control the shutter speed while the camera adjusts the aperture automatically.

• Start with 1/1000s or faster to freeze the motion of fast jets.
• For propeller planes, try 1/250s to 1/320s to create motion blur in the propellers while keeping the plane sharp.
• Want more control? Switch to Manual Mode to fine-tune both aperture and shutter speed, especially in changing light.

Pro Tip: Use Auto ISO if you’re shooting in manual and light conditions are inconsistent.

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2. Set Continuous Autofocus (AI Servo / AF-C)

Jets and planes don’t wait for you to get your focus right. Switch your autofocus to continuous mode (AF-C on Nikon or AI Servo on Canon) to track fast-moving subjects.

Also, enable high-speed continuous shooting (burst mode) to capture a series of shots in rapid succession — improving your chances of getting the perfect frame.

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3. Use a Telephoto Lens (but don’t forget the wide!)

A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-300mm or 100-400mm) is ideal for filling the frame with aircraft. But don’t overlook wide-angle lenses for crowd scenes, ground displays, and dramatic sky shots with smoke trails.

Tip: Use lens hoods to reduce flare when shooting toward the sun.

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4. Watch Your Backgrounds

Clean backgrounds (like blue skies or puffy clouds) make planes stand out. Avoid cluttered scenes or distractions like wires or crowds behind the aircraft. Change your position if needed for a better angle.

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5. Track the Flight Path

Study the event schedule and find out where the aircraft usually take off, fly, and land. Getting to know the performance sequence will help you anticipate and prepare for key moments.

Arrive early to scout your location. North or south ends of the runway often give great angles for takeoffs and landings.

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6. Use a Monopod or Shoulder Strap

Airshows can be long and tiring — especially if you’re holding a heavy telephoto lens all day. A monopod helps stabilize your shots without limiting movement, and a good shoulder strap reduces fatigue.

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7. Protect Your Gear

August sun and dust can be hard on your equipment. Bring:

• A lens cloth and air blower for cleaning
• UV or clear filters for lens protection
• A hat or cloth to cover your camera when not in use

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Want to Master Your Camera Before the Airshow Season Ends?

If you found these tips helpful and want to take your photography skills further, consider joining our Beginner Photography Bootcamp, starting October 4, 2025!

What You’ll Learn:

• Exposure mastery: Aperture, shutter speed, ISO
• Focus modes and settings for moving subjects
• Composition techniques to tell stronger visual stories
• Real-world practice during two guided outdoor field trips

Whether you’re new to photography or finally ready to take your DSLR or mirrorless camera off auto mode, this hands-on, easy-to-understand Bootcamp will set you up for success.

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Final Thoughts

The Abbotsford Airshow is a spectacular experience both for aviation fans and photographers. With a bit of planning and the right settings, you can walk away with stunning shots — and a deeper appreciation for fast-paced photography.

Get out there, experiment, and most of all — enjoy the thrill of shooting something that’s literally flying by.

Need more help learning photography?
Join us this fall and let’s take your photography to new heights.