Airplanes & Trains

Lift up that shade!

Airplane windows offer a unique perspective to capture breathtaking images of the world below. From sweeping landscapes and winding rivers to cityscapes and cloud formations, every moment offers a chance to create something extraordinary.

Use your phone’s focus controls to sharpen land below. Experiment with framing the wing for added context and depth. With a little planning and creativity, your airplane seat becomes the perfect vantage point for unforgettable photography and abstract art!

Before & After

Sky Views: In the images above and below, we originally included the wing; however, the terrain below is enhanced by zooming in and selecting the focus button to ensure the image is sharp. With these actions, we can capture the abstract patterns of the rivers and landscapes below.

Through the Clouds

Seattle, Washington: Mount Rainier peaks through the clouds when flying into or out of Seattle. It's the tallest peak in the lower 48 states. 

Coming Round the Mountain!

There’s something dreamy and nostalgic about watching the world rush by from a train window. Unlike a plane, you’re closer to the action—rolling past fields, forests, and cityscapes with ever-changing light and textures. Train rides offer a unique blend of motion and scenery that makes for surprisingly beautiful photo opportunities… if you know what to look for (and how to keep that window glare in check!).

Somewhere in Switzerland: The Glacier Express takes you on an epic 8-hour ride from St. Moritz to Zermatt, with jaw-dropping scenery the entire way. But that magical shot above? It didn’t just happen—we had to wait (and wait!) for the perfect sharp right turn into a tunnel to catch the front of the train in motion. Totally worth the patience!

Tips for Taking Stunning Photos from an Airplane Window

✈️ Choose the Right Seat
A window seat ahead of the wing offers the best view, while seats behind the wing may capture engine exhaust distortion.

🧼 Clean the Window
Before takeoff, use a soft cloth or napkin to wipe away smudges for a clearer shot.

🌅 Shoot During Golden Hour
Early morning and late afternoon flights provide soft, warm lighting that enhances landscapes and cloud textures.

📴 Use Airplane Mode
While your phone’s camera works without Wi-Fi, turn on airplane mode to avoid interruptions and save battery.

🛑 Avoid Reflections
Hold your phone close to the window and cup your hand around the lens to block cabin light reflections.

🌄 Capture the Landscape
Look for mountain ranges, coastlines, or city lights for dramatic aerial shots.

🛩️ Include the Wing for Scale
Positioning part of the airplane wing in your shot can add depth and context to the vast sky.

☀️ Adjust Exposure Manually
Bright clouds can trick your camera into underexposing; tap the brightest area and adjust exposure for a balanced shot.

🤲 Steady Your Hands
Airplane vibrations can cause blur; keep your arms close to your body or rest them on the armrest for stability.

🎨 Edit for Clarity
Enhance your shots post-flight by adjusting contrast, sharpening details, and reducing haze in editing apps.

With the right lighting, angle, and a little patience, you can capture breathtaking aerial views that transform a simple flight into a photographic adventure!

Tips for Taking Amazing Photos from a Train Window

🚂 Walk Around to Explore Views
Unlike planes, trains let you move! Walk through the cars to scout out the best windows, unique angles, or scenic open-air spots (like observation decks or back windows).

🪟 Find an Open Window
Some older trains or scenic routes offer windows that open—perfect for avoiding reflections and getting that crisp, clear shot (just hang on tight!).

📱 Use a Phone Neck Strap
If you're leaning out or snapping near an open window, secure your phone with a neck strap or wrist tether to avoid any accidental drops.

🔁 Watch for Sharp Curves
On tight left or right turns, position yourself toward the front or back to capture the full curve of the train snaking through the landscape.

🚃 Shoot from the Rear
The last car often has a window looking out behind the train—a great place to photograph the tracks fading into the distance or the full train in motion.

🧼 Clean the Glass
Train windows can be dusty or fogged. Use a cloth or tissue to gently wipe smudges for a clearer photo.

☀️ Look for Golden Light
Just like flying, early mornings and late afternoons add beautiful warmth and soft shadows to your train scenery.

📴 Turn Off Notifications
No one wants a perfect mountain shot ruined by a pop-up. Set your phone to Do Not Disturb while you shoot.

🖐️ Avoid Window Glare
Hold your phone close to the glass and block side light with your hand or a hat to reduce reflections.

🎨 Edit the Motion
Some blur from movement can be artistic—use editing tools to enhance colors, sharpen key details, or crop creatively.

From rolling hills to winding tracks, train rides are full of ever-changing photo opportunities. With a little planning and a lot of curiosity, you can turn your journey into a moving gallery of memorable shots!

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