What camera equipment should you take to RIAT?

Packing photography equipment for RIAT can be difficult, especially if it is your first airshow. You want enough equipment to cover the flying and static displays, but you also need to remember that you could be carrying it for a very long day.

This guide covers the equipment I would consider taking, from the camera and lenses through to the smaller items that are easily forgotten. You do not need everything listed here, and you certainly do not need the newest or most expensive camera.

The best setup is one that you understand, can carry comfortably and can use quickly when an aircraft suddenly appears.

RIAT can bring fast jets, helicopters, large transport aircraft, historic propeller aircraft and an extensive static display. The weather can also change quickly, so a little preparation can make a big difference.

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My own photography journey

I started aviation photography in 2006 using my parents’ Nikon D40x and a Nikon 70–300mm lens. It was a basic setup, but it gave me everything I needed to learn about tracking aircraft, shutter speeds and composition.

My own equipment has gradually changed from a Nikon D90 to a D7200, followed by the Nikon D500 and D850. Each upgrade gave me more options, but the biggest improvements came from practice and learning how my equipment behaved.

You do not need professional equipment to photograph RIAT. An older DSLR, an entry-level mirrorless camera or a bridge camera with a good zoom can all produce excellent results.

Start with what you have, learn how to use it and upgrade when you understand what is limiting you.

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Choosing a camera for RIAT

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DSLR or mirrorless camera

Both systems are suitable for aviation photography.

A good air show camera should ideally offer:

• Continuous autofocus for tracking moving aircraft

• A burst mode of around five frames per second or faster

• Easy access to shutter speed, ISO and exposure controls

• A comfortable grip, especially when using a larger lens

• A viewfinder that you can use comfortably in bright sunlight

• Enough battery life for a full day, supported by spare batteries

Faster autofocus and burst rates can help, but they are not essential for getting started. Learning to follow the aircraft smoothly and anticipating where it will appear are equally important.

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Bridge cameras

A bridge camera can be a very practical option for RIAT. These cameras usually provide a large zoom range without requiring you to change lenses.

They are particularly useful for beginners, families or visitors who want a lighter and simpler setup. The main limitations can be slower autofocus, smaller sensors and reduced performance in poor light, but they can still produce impressive photographs.

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Mobile phones and compact cameras

Modern phones and compact cameras are excellent for:

• Static aircraft

• Wide views of the showground

• Photographs with friends and family

• Exhibition areas

• Aircraft cockpits and close-up details

• Short videos and social-media content

They will not normally offer the same reach as a telephoto lens, but they are still a useful part of your kit.

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The best lenses for RIAT

You do not need to bring every lens you own. Think about the photographs you want and choose the smallest setup that will cover them.

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Telephoto lens for the flying display

A telephoto lens will usually be your main lens during the flying programme.

Useful ranges include:

• 70–300mm

• 100–400mm

• 200–500mm

• 150–600mm

• 200–600mm

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A 70–300mm lens is a sensible and affordable starting point. It is relatively light, covers many of the larger aircraft and can be found cheaply on the second-hand market.

A 100–400mm lens offers a useful balance between reach, image quality and weight. It is one of the most versatile ranges for air show photography.

Lenses reaching 500mm or 600mm are helpful for smaller aircraft, distant passes and tighter photographs. However, these lenses are heavier and can become tiring during a full display day.

More reach is not always better. Large formations and close passes can sometimes be difficult to fit into the frame with a very long lens.

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Standard zoom for static aircraft

A lens such as an 18–55mm, 18–105mm, 18–200mm or 24–70mm is ideal for walking around the static display.

These lenses can be used for:

• Full aircraft photographs

• Cockpits and nose sections

• Squadron markings

• Engines and undercarriage

• Ground crews

• Crowd and showground scenes

• Wider photographs showing the RIAT atmosphere

The static display can become busy, so a wider lens is useful when you cannot step back far enough to fit the entire aircraft into the frame.

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Mid-range telephoto

A 70–200mm lens can be useful for larger aircraft, taxiing movements and more detailed static photographs. It can also work well when aircraft are relatively close to the crowdline.

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Wide-angle lens

A lens in the 10–20mm or 16–35mm range can produce creative views of larger aircraft and the showground.

Wide-angle lenses are particularly effective for:

• Low-angle photographs

• Large transport aircraft

• Aircraft noses and cockpits

• Wing and engine details

• Dramatic skies

• Photographs that include the crowd or RIAT surroundings

Be aware that very wide lenses can distort the aircraft near the edges of the frame. This can be used creatively, but it will not suit every photograph.

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Should you take two camera bodies?

A second camera body is useful, but it is not essential.

If you already own two compatible cameras, you could fit:

• A telephoto lens to one body for the flying display

• A standard or wide-angle lens to the second body for static aircraft

This reduces the number of lens changes and helps prevent dust entering the camera. It also gives you a backup if one body develops a problem.

The disadvantage is the additional weight. Carrying two bodies and several lenses from early morning until the end of the flying display can become uncomfortable.

For most beginners, one camera with two carefully selected lenses will be enough.

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Essential equipment to pack

Spare batteries

Airshow photography can use batteries quickly, especially when using continuous autofocus, image stabilisation, long bursts, electronic viewfinders or video.

I recommend taking at least two or three fully charged batteries for each camera. Older batteries may not last as long as expected, particularly in cold or wet conditions.

Keep them in a protective battery case rather than loose in your bag. Cover the terminals and keep used batteries separate from charged ones.

A simple method is to turn an empty battery around in its case so you know it has been used.

If you are camping, plan how you will recharge everything. A mains-compatible power station, suitable power bank or campsite charging facility can be useful, but check your campsite’s rules and facilities before travelling.

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Memory cards

It is surprising how quickly memory cards fill when using high-speed burst mode, particularly if you photograph in RAW.

Consider taking:

• Several 64GB or 128GB cards (Remember to purchase the Card that suits your cameras write speed) 

• A protective card case

• Cards with suitable write speeds for your camera

• A clearly marked system for full and empty cards

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Several smaller cards can be safer than relying on one very large card. If a card fails or becomes lost, you will not lose the entire weekend.

Buy memory cards from trusted retailers. Counterfeit cards can have unreliable speeds or much less storage than advertised.

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Before leaving home:

• Copy any existing photographs from the cards

• Check the files have been backed up

• Format each card inside the camera

• Take a few test photographs

• Confirm that the camera is writing to the card correctly

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Lens hood

A lens hood can reduce glare, improve contrast and give the front of the lens some physical protection.

Keep it fitted where practical, but make sure it is locked into place. A loose hood can rotate and appear in the corners of your photographs.

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Lens cloths and cleaning equipment

Dust, rain, fingerprints and suncream can all find their way onto your equipment.

Pack:

• Two or three clean microfibre cloths

• A lens-cleaning pen

• A small air blower

• Individually wrapped lens wipes if required

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Keep one cloth somewhere easy to reach. Store another in a sealed bag so you still have a dry cloth after a rain shower.

Avoid wiping mud or grit across the lens. Use a blower first to remove loose particles.

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Rain cover

RIAT weather can change very quickly. Even if the morning forecast looks dry, pack protection for your camera and lens.

A purpose-made camera rain cover is the best option. It allows you to continue using the controls while keeping most of the equipment protected.

A strong clear plastic bag can work as an emergency backup, but it should not be your only protection if heavy rain is expected.

Also consider:

• A waterproof cover for your backpack

• Dry bags or resealable bags for smaller accessories

• A small towel

• Silica-gel packets

• A spare dry lens cloth

Do not seal wet equipment inside a bag for a long period. When you return to your accommodation or campsite, allow it to dry gradually in a safe, ventilated place.

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Camera strap or harness

The standard camera strap supplied with many cameras is not always comfortable with a large telephoto lens.

A padded strap, cross-body sling or camera harness can spread the weight more effectively. Make sure any attachment system is designed to support the combined weight of your camera and lens.

Check all clips, buckles and mounting points before travelling.

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Monopod

A monopod can help support a heavy 500mm or 600mm lens and reduce strain during a long day. It can be particularly useful for slower propeller shutter speeds or when waiting between flying displays.

However, a monopod also takes up space and can become awkward in a crowded viewing area. Practise using it before RIAT and remain considerate of the people around you.

If you intend to take a monopod, tripod, folding seat or other larger accessory, check the latest official RIAT entry and prohibited-item guidance before travelling.

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Beanbag or lens support

A small beanbag can be useful when photographing from beside a parked vehicle at an appropriate viewing location. It provides a stable surface without the bulk of a tripod.

Never balance a camera where it could fall, obstruct somebody else or interfere with a public route.

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Small notebook or phone notes

If you are into "Spotting" Then being a notebook can help record the following:

• Aircraft registrations

• Display times

• Camera settings

• Interesting locations

• Ideas to try later

• Problems you noticed with your equipment

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This can be particularly useful if you are learning and want to compare your settings with the final photographs.

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Choosing the right camera bag

A comfortable camera bag is one of the most important parts of your setup.

RIAT involves long walks, queues and many hours standing at the crowdline. A poorly fitted or overloaded bag can quickly spoil the day.

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Look for:

• Padded and adjustable shoulder straps

• A supportive back panel

• A waist or chest strap

• Weather-resistant materials

• A separate rain cover

• Secure internal dividers

• Quick access to batteries and memory cards

• Space for water and personal essentials

• Strong zips and reliable fastenings

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If you are in the market for a new camrea bag, there are many to choose from, you need to look at the gear you have, how your going to pack it and if it will all fit. If you can, visit a camera shop and try some on, get a feel of it. This should help you decide. There are lots of YouTube videos on line to check out if the bag you are after will work for you. 

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Pack the heavier equipment close to your back. Avoid hanging too many loose items from the outside, where they could catch on people or barriers.

Before RIAT, pack the bag exactly as you intend to use it and take it on a walk. If it feels too heavy after 30 minutes, it will feel much worse after a full day.

Leave a little spare room. It makes equipment easier to reach and gives you somewhere to store a layer of clothing or a small purchase.

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A sensible beginner setup

If you are attending RIAT for the first time, a straightforward setup could include:

• One DSLR, mirrorless or bridge camera

• One 70–300mm or similar telephoto lens

• One 18–55mm or standard zoom for static aircraft

• Two or three charged batteries

• Two or three memory cards

• Lens hood

• Microfibre cloths

• Camera rain cover

• Comfortable backpack

• Padded camera strap

• Protective card and battery cases

This gives you enough flexibility without making the bag unnecessarily heavy.

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A more advanced setup

A more experienced photographer might choose:

• Primary camera body

• Optional backup or second body

• 100–400mm, 200–500mm, 150–600mm or similar lens

• 24–70mm or standard zoom

• Optional 70–200mm lens

• Several high-speed memory cards

• Three or more batteries per camera

• Monopod for a heavier lens

• Full camera and bag weather protection

• Lens-cleaning kit

• Portable backup storage

• Comfortable carrying harness

• Ear protection

• Power bank and charging cables

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Only take the extra equipment if you know you will use it. A lighter, well-planned bag is normally better than carrying every lens you own.

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Buying new or second-hand equipment

Camera equipment can become expensive very quickly. Buying second-hand is one of the best ways to build a capable aviation photography setup on a sensible budget.

Older camera bodies and lenses are still capable of producing excellent photographs. In many cases, buying a better used lens will make more difference than buying the newest camera body.

When buying used equipment, check:

• The overall physical condition

• Lens glass for scratches, fungus or haze

• Autofocus and image stabilisation

• Zoom and focus rings

• Camera shutter count where available

• Battery condition

• Memory-card slots

• Buttons, dials and connection ports

• Whether a warranty or return period is included

• Whether lens caps, hoods, tripod collars and cases are supplied

Buying privately can sometimes be cheaper, but established retailers normally offer condition ratings, returns and a limited warranty.

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Places to buy photography equipment

Jessops

Jessops stocks new cameras, lenses, bags, memory cards and other accessories. It can be useful if you would like to visit a shop and handle equipment before buying.

Park Cameras

Park Cameras sells new and used photography equipment from the main camera manufacturers. Its used section can be helpful when comparing older bodies and lenses.

CameraWorld

CameraWorld offers new and pre-owned cameras, lenses and accessories. Look carefully at compatibility and included accessories when comparing products.

MPB

MPB specialises in used photography equipment. Individual items are photographed and given condition ratings, making it easier to compare several versions of the same camera or lens.

Clifton Cameras

Clifton Cameras stocks camera bodies, lenses, bags, supports and accessories. It is another useful retailer for comparing brands and prices.

Wex Photo Video

Wex carries a wide selection of new and used equipment. Its range includes cameras, lenses, memory cards, bags, cleaning equipment and weather protection.

Prices, warranties, stock and product condition can change, so compare several retailers before ordering.

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​​​​​​​Hiring equipment for RIAT

Hiring can be a sensible alternative to buying an expensive lens that you may only use occasionally.

It allows you to:

• Try a longer lens before buying one

• Use a backup camera body

• Access equipment outside your normal budget

• Compare DSLR and mirrorless systems

• Hire a specialist lens for the weekend

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Arrange delivery early and include enough time to test the equipment before travelling. Make sure the lens mount is compatible with your camera and check whether an adapter is required.

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Do not use a hired camera or lens for the first time at the crowdline. Learn the controls, set up the autofocus and practise changing the settings before RIAT.

Read our full Photography Equipment Hire guide for more information.

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The smaller items people often forget

The main camera and lens are normally remembered. These are the items most likely to be left at home:

• Camera batteries

• Battery charger

• Memory cards

• Card reader

• Lens caps

• Lens hood

• Tripod collar for a large lens

• Rain cover

• Dry lens cloth

• Charging cables

• Power bank

• Lens or mount adapter

• Spare contact lenses or glasses

• Earplugs or ear defenders

• Medication

• Suncream

• Hat

• Water bottle

• Lightweight waterproof jacket

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Keep photography equipment and personal essentials balanced. There is little benefit in carrying an expensive lens if you have forgotten water, sun

protection or suitable clothing.

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RIAT-specific packing advice

Prepare for changing weather

RIAT can bring bright sunshine, dark cloud, strong wind and heavy rain during the same weekend.

Pack for the conditions, but do not rely completely on the forecast. Protect your equipment from rain and remember that long lenses can be difficult to hold steadily in strong wind.

A lens hood can help keep light rain away from the front element, but it does not replace a proper rain cover.

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Protect yourself from the noise

Fast jets can be extremely loud, especially near the crowdline or during take-off demonstrations.

Carry suitable earplugs or ear defenders. Protecting your hearing is more important than getting one photograph.

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Avoid changing lenses unnecessarily

Busy showground areas, wind, dust and rain are not ideal conditions for changing lenses.

If you need to change one:

1. Move away from the busiest part of the crowd.

2. Keep the camera opening facing down.

3. Have the replacement lens ready.

4. Complete the change quickly but carefully.

5. Secure both lens caps before moving again.

Two camera bodies can reduce lens changes, but only if you are comfortable carrying the additional weight.

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Think about security

Never leave camera equipment unattended, including at a campsite, in a viewing area or inside a visible part of a vehicle.

Keep valuable items close to you and make a record of serial numbers before travelling. Photographing your equipment and storing purchase receipts can also help if you ever need to make an insurance claim.

Check that your insurance covers equipment away from home, at public events and inside a tent or vehicle.

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Keep access routes clear

Camera bags, monopods and folding equipment can create trip hazards. Keep your belongings within your own space and do not block paths, exits or the view of other visitors.

Be aware of the people around you when moving a large lens. A considerate photographer is always welcome at the crowdline.

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The night-before checklist

Before going to bed, complete one final check:

• Charge every battery

• Pack the chargers

• Format memory cards after backing them up

• Set the correct date and time on each camera

• Clean the lenses and viewfinder

• Test autofocus and burst mode

• Check that image stabilisation is working

• Confirm RAW or JPEG settings

• Fit the correct lens

• Pack the lens hood

• Check camera and lens firmware if necessary

• Pack rain protection

• Check the bag’s straps and zips

• Save the flying programme or useful information to your phone

• Check the latest weather forecast

• Check the latest official RIAT entry guidance

• Make sure tickets, identification and travel information are ready

Take a few test photographs before leaving home. It is far better to discover a problem there than when the first aircraft enters the display.

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Quick RIAT photography checklist

Camera equipment

• Camera body

• Backup body if required

• Telephoto lens

• Standard or wide-angle lens

• Lens hoods

• Lens and body caps

• Lens adapter if required

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Power and storage

• Charged camera batteries

• Battery charger

• Memory cards

• Protective memory-card case

• Card reader

• Power bank

• Charging cables

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Protection and cleaning

• Camera rain cover

• Backpack rain cover

• Microfibre cloths

• Lens-cleaning pen

• Air blower

• Small towel

• Dry bags or resealable bags

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Carrying and comfort

• Supportive camera backpack

• Comfortable strap or harness

• Monopod if required

• Earplugs or ear defenders

• Waterproof jacket

• Hat and suncream

• Water

• Any essential medication

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Final advice

It is easy to believe that you need the newest camera or the longest lens to photograph RIAT properly. You do not.

A photographer who understands a basic camera will usually achieve more than somebody carrying expensive equipment they have never practised with.

Pack what you can carry comfortably, learn where everything is stored and practise changing your settings without taking your eye away from the viewfinder. Most importantly, remember to put the camera down occasionally and enjoy the show.

RIAT is about more than bringing home thousands of photographs. It is about seeing aircraft you may never see together again and enjoying one of the biggest aviation events in the world.