Working with squadrons
Getting the opportunity to photograph military families throughout the base over the last 3 years has been a blessing. Working alongside squadrons to guarantee families receive photos of their memories has been the best. These clients change from year to year and so do the needs of the unit.
I have spent the last 3 years documenting families and squadrons here. Every session has been fun and so much growth and understanding has happened as a business owner.
Flightline Sessions + Approval
When working with squadrons specifically on the flightline approvals have to be granted by Public Affairs, Security Forces, and the Squadron Commanding Officers. These sessions run based on approval dates and can be limited on when and how many slots are available to families and personnel. I have to operate within a set time period and leave the flightline as you found it. I have been approached multiple times for sessions and determining a date that meets the needs of the business and squadron can be difficult. Some days you will or will not have available due to previous commitments. Approvals alone can take anywhere from 1-3 weeks depending on the time of year and how quickly a squadron pushes the paperwork.
Keep in mind after the sessions Public Affairs has to approve the release of images to be used. These sessions are shorter and are usually no more than 15 minutes each.
Escorts are mandatory: A civilian cannot just walk on the flightline. Also you have to walk around the flightline a certain way or you will get in trouble with Security Forces.
(They will view you as a threat, which is not good. This is standard in the Air Force and AFSOC.)
Permission is required: Public Affairs, Security Forces, the Commanding Officer, Executive Officr, or Duty Officer have to give permission for date and usage.
Safety and Restrictions: Certain parts of the aircraft cannot be photographed and moving flightline parts cannot be photographed. This is for safety and security.
Practical Tips: Flightlines can be dirty and hazardous. Please be careful.
Airplane park sessions
The base airplane park can be used year round for sessions and does not require approval like flightline sessions. These are perfect when you want the vibes of the flightline, but access is limited or you missed your units set of session dates.
The park has current aircraft and vintage aircraft. Depending on the vibe of the session you are going for this may be for you. The park is next to Unity Park by main gate and is easy to get to.
These sessions do not require Public Affairs approval before image release. This means a quicker turnaround typically happens. Sessions are also private and can take 30 minutes or an hour depending on needs.
Depending on the time of year, mini session dates may be available with limited slots. Keep checking my Facebook and Instagram for updates.
