Most people assume aircraft photography is just showing up, pointing a camera at a jet, and pressing a button.

If that were true, my job would be easier.

This recent trip to Houston was for a private jet photography assignment — exterior and full cabin coverage for a listing that’s about to hit the market.

Here’s what actually goes into it.

Step One: The Ramp Reality Check

No matter how nice the airplane is, the ramp is rarely photo-ready.

Ground equipment. Harsh sun. Heat shimmer. Random cones. A tug parked in exactly the wrong spot.

Private jet photography isn’t just about lighting — it’s about control.

We repositioned for cleaner backgrounds and waited for better light rather than rushing mid-day shots that flatten the aircraft.

Good aircraft photography requires patience.

Step Two: Exterior Precision

When photographing a jet exterior, proportion matters more than drama.

Too wide and it looks distorted.
Too tight and it feels cramped.
Too much contrast and it looks over-edited.

The goal is accurate presentation.

Buyers need to see the aircraft clearly — not through a filter.

Step Three: Cabin Control

Interior aircraft photography is a completely different skill set.

Cabins combine:

• LED lighting

• Daylight from windows

• Reflective veneers

• Textured leathers

Balancing all of that without making it look fake takes intention.

The goal is simple: make the space feel open, natural, and honest.

No gimmicks.

Just precision visual assets that help a broker sell.

Every trip reinforces something:

Aircraft photography is not about making a jet look “cool.”
It’s about helping it compete in a global market.

If you’re preparing an aircraft for listing and want imagery that builds buyer confidence, you can reach out here.