Airborne Photographer
To become an Airborne Photographer, Civil Air Patrol members must hold certain prerequisites, master photography theory, then hone their skills through practical experience in the aircraft and in discussions with a skills evaluator. The steps to qualification are laid out below.
How view your progress towards Airborne Photographer
Like all emergency services ratings, you can view your progress in eServices on an SQTR (training record) under Operations Qualifications. Follow this link to learn how.
Commander Approval
Several tasks in the SQTR state that commander approval is required. Contact your squadron commander or deputy for approval.
Key Prerequisites
You must already be an active Mission Scanner to start Airborne Photographer training.
Theory
Preparatory Knowledge
To gain the specific knowledge required to perform the duties of Airborne Photographer you may use any combination of three options. Self study, recorded webinar, or in person training at your squadron depending how you learn best. Once complete you should meet with a Skills Evaluator who will assess your knowledge and complete the preparatory tasks in your SQTR. Click here to learn how to find a skills evaluator.
Option 1: Reference text and self study
These two texts are the official reference, and SQTR task guide for Airborne Photographer.
Option 2: Webinars and Video
SQTR Task | Video Link |
---|---|
O-2204, P-2201, P-2202 | Watch |
O-2205, P-2203 | Watch |
O-2206 | Watch |
O-2207, O-2215 | Watch |
Solmeta GMAS GPS Geotagger - Quick Start | Watch |
(If prompted for a username password to watch the video, enter your KY Wing email username and password)
Option3: In Person Training
Contact your squadron Operations Officer, Emergency Services Officer or any command staff to arrange in person/group training.
Practical
Once you reach this point you are ready to fly and put your knowledge into practice. You will fly on at least two flights (sorties) with a Mission Pilot and skills evaluator (often the same person) on a simulated mission in one of the Civil Air Patrol aircraft where you will complete your SQTR. Contact your skills evaluator or Operations Officer to arrange these flights.
And remember, this is not a test! These are training exercises not examinations.
What's next?
Most freshly qualified Airborne Photographers go on to pursue Mission Observer, or if a qualified pilot with the required experience, Mission Pilot.