In my first mono review, I mentioned that I’m woefully ignorant about photography. But, since I’m a die-hard fan of Afro-sensei, I begged to review the show. And as part of that review, I promised readers we’d learn about photography/videography together. So, when Episode 2 introduced kite aerial photography (KAP), the chance to dive into a niche part of photography presented itself. So I went to find an expert to teach us about it. Luckily, one of kite aerial photography’s biggest names, Evan Reinheimer, agreed to help us understand the process behind KAP.
Who’s Evan Reinheimer, you ask? Evan is to kite aerial photography what Rin Tohsaka is to tsunderes; everyone in the know reveres the name. A New York native, Evan’s work in KAP has racked up more awards than The Dangers In My Heart racked up in our yearly polls.
But what exactly is KAP? And more importantly, is it as simple as mono made it seem?
Kite aerial photography affixes a camera to a kite to take bird’s-eye view shots. I can already hear the X crowd screaming, “Bro, there are drones!” But much like drawing manga on paper lets you do things you can’t do on a tablet, KAP offers a distinct vantage point in photography. Plus, there’s the added bonus that, much like An-chan, you can run and yell while you steer the camera (NOT LEGAL ADVICE). But enough of my ramblings, let’s get to the professional….
Evan’s Take On Kite Aerial Photography
Q: Can you explain kite aerial photography? I’m assuming it’s not as simple as taping a camera to a kite (as depicted in Mono).
A: The concept is fairly simple, but the execution is complicated. In KAP, a camera is lifted into the sky using a kite to take aerial photographs. Cameras are usually attached to a rig that allows the photographer to aim and operate the camera with a radio remote control. The rig is attached to the kite string about 100′ (30m) below the kite. It allows the kite to fly fairly normally without being pulled down by the camera’s weight. It also serves to stabilize the camera. One could attach the camera to the kite line in a stationary rig and set a timer, but that won’t give you as much control over the resulting image.
Q: How did you get into KAP? Is it a thriving industry or more of a niche pastime?
A: When I was in art school 20 years ago, I wanted to do aerial photography. This was way before drones, and at the time I lacked the money to rent an airplane or helicopter.
I loved flying kites, and one day I thought that I could probably use one of my kites to lift a camera. I tried this, thinking I was inventing something totally new. But I later found out that KAP had existed for around 150 years.
I don’t think the concept has ever been “thriving.” It’s mostly a niche hobby or a technique used out of necessity when other aerial photography methods were not available.
Q: Beyond regulatory hurdles restricting drone use, what are the advantages of using KAP for aerial shots?
A: A kite can lift a heavier, much higher-quality camera than consumer drones can. Therefore, the resulting image quality is much better. This may not be important for images intended for social media, but for print, there is a huge difference.
As you mentioned, KAP is not subject to the same restrictions as drones. KAP is permissible in many places where drones are not. Additionally, drones are sometimes perceived as intrusive and annoying. Kites are almost always seen as fun and playful, even when there is a camera attached. I find nothing wrong with drones; they are a stellar tool for creativity.
Q: Is KAP difficult to learn? How do you control the camera once it’s in the air? How does one protect the camera during landing?
A: The most important part is learning how to fly a kite safely and understanding the wind. Once you’re confident you can keep a kite in the air steadily and safely, regardless of wind changes that may come up, the rest is fairly easy. To control the camera, I use a radio remote from the ground. The camera has no added protection for landings. I will bring the kite line in slowly and then detach the camera before bringing the kite all the way in.
Q: How do wind conditions affect a successful KAP attempt? Are there special rigs to stabilize the camera, or does the operator’s experience factor into that?
A: There is nothing on the KAP rig that actively stabilizes the camera. A good, consistent wind and a steady kite are the keys to a stable KAP image. If the wind is gusty or unstable, I’ll usually try another time.
Q: What are some of the disadvantages of using KAP over drones? Are there any legal hurdles newbies should be aware of?
A: The biggest disadvantage is being at the mercy of the wind. Wind and weather are inconsistent and hard to predict. The time it takes to get a great shot is also a challenge. Even in perfect conditions, a “quick” KAP session will usually take at least an hour. So you can accomplish it much quicker with a drone.
The legality mainly depends on where they allow kites. In general, if they allow kiting, they also permit KAP. However, some cities, like Paris, forbid aerial photography. So, even though they permit you to fly a kite there, they strongly prohibit attaching a camera.
Q: Newcomers to a hobby often worry about picking the right gear. Can you help us cast that worry aside by telling us what starting gear we should pick?
A: You should use a simple, lightweight camera with an interval timer. You can attach the camera to a stationary bracket on the kite line and set the timer to take photos…voila! You’re doing KAP!
Q: What kind of subjects are best suited for KAP? Likewise, how does one compose a stellar aerial shot using KAP?
A: Locations with good, consistent wind are always the best. Beaches, open fields, etc. The same subject and composition guidelines for photography/art also apply to KAP. The only difference is the vantage point. I sketch out most of my images before I attempt to take photographs. This helps me set my intention with composition, color, etc., before I launch the kite.
Q: Do you watch anime, or are you familiar with any titles?
A: I don’t currently watch any anime. During my high school years, my friends were into anime, so I occasionally watched it. The only one I can recall by name is called Ninja Scroll.
Hobbies & Anime
Plenty of people pick up a hobby from an anime they’ve watched. Unfortunately, anime never goes into detail on the topic they cover. As much as I love Slow Loop and NegaPosi Angler, I warn everyone that buying gear based on what the show tells you is a terrible idea unless you already know the basics. But with Mono, I didn’t even know that, so a huge thanks to Evan Reinheimer for taking the time to help us understand this topic better. Check out his work and socials at:
Website: EvanReinheimer.com
Instagram: instagram.com/evanflieskites
Facebook: facebook.com/evanreinheimer
YouTube: youtube.com/@evanreinheimer
Screenshots: Crunchyroll
© Afro/Houbunsha, Aniplex, Soigne
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