What is the difference between “Oblique” and Vertical” aerial photography?
It’s interesting how many options there are once you start exploring aerial and landscape workshops, but the real difference shows up in how immersive they are in practice. From what I’ve experienced, the most useful ones are those where you’re constantly adapting to real conditions instead of just listening to theory. During photography tours Western Australia I joined, the focus was on shooting in changing light and unique locations, which made learning feel very natural. That kind of hands-on environment helped build confidence quickly and made the whole process much more practical and engaging.
Yeah, that’s a clear and simple way to explain the difference — vertical shots feel more precise and structured, while oblique ones really add that sense of depth and movement. I guess it also depends on what story you’re trying to tell with the image, not just the angle itself.By the way, I’ve been getting more interested in this topic lately — does anyone know any good aerial photography workshops in Australia? I’ve seen a few like the tours by Mark Gray or drone courses from Total RPA, but curious if there are any others worth checking out.
Oblique aerial photography provides the “side view” or “nearly directly overhead” perspective of a subject or project. Vertical aerial photography provides an image directly over the subject or project; nearly straight down from the aircraft. Depending on a client’s needs, together we determine which view is right, which in turn determines which type of aircraft and camera equipment is utilized for the “shoot”.
Vertical aerial photography is a taken directly over the project, practically straight down, while oblique aerial photography is taken at an angle to give you a full 3 dimensional perspective. Vertical photos are widely used for creating maps and development overlays because they appear to be flat and can be given a scale, while oblique photos give more depth to the subject property and are more for your viewing pleasure.
Vertical and oblique aerial pictures are the most common types. A vertical photograph is one in which the camera axis is aimed vertically as possible toward the ground. In contrast, an oblique picture is one in which the camera axis is aimed at an inclination to the ground. For example, you find a place for your photgraphy, let’s say on https://www.aperfectspace.com. If you want a more dinamic photo you will choose the oblique style. However if you would like a spesific vuew, the vertical photography will look better!