SS
Tempted out of my self imposed silence. I guess I made an error here in assuming that mostr people would be aware of non radio environment. Obviously it does NOT change the rules of the air with regard to priorities etc. but in any uncontrolled environment the primary responsibility for seperation rests with the pilot and looking out is vital. I guess many have not experienced this environment and rely more on the radio (not a dig at anyone and esp SS).
The air to air stuff is obvious. ground based stuff is to build up a variety of shots of every aircraft type and if possible every actual aircraft on the UK register. A massive task buy we are doing quite well so far. No payment and all rights are retained by the magazine but a load of fun.
We are all digital using Nikon D1x and Canon D60. Although the Canon is cheaper it is a great camera and some of the shots are better than the Nikon. You cant go wrong with this particularly if you have Canon lenses already. I am thinking of looking at the new Kodak (nikon based) 12mpix camera for around £3,500. waiting for someone from a sister mag of PILOT to test it.
Always happy to receive pix for the library (which we hope to also be on the new Pilotweb site some time early next year) but it doies mean the photographer has to assign all rights to use so I doubt whether you would want to offer up your ground pix unless like us you enjoy doiung it and want to see your pix published.
If you want to know more feel free to e-mail me.