Aircraft Editorial Photography with Speed, Precision, and a Journalist’s Instinct

Looking for an editorial aviation photographer who can hit the ground running and deliver powerful, publish-ready content? You’ve just found your stringer. I’m Dave Koch—a seasoned, award-winning aircraft photographer with a track record for excellence across both commercial and editorial aviation projects. From business jet interiors to missile launches, I bring a unique blend of photojournalism speed, commercial polish, and a deep-rooted love for flight to every assignment.

My editorial roots go back to my first career: more than a decade as a television news photographer covering military and aerospace events out of Vandenberg Air Force Base on California’s Central Coast. I wasn’t just filming jets—I was front and center for west coast shuttle launch preparations, documenting MX, Minuteman, Atlas, and Titan launches, capturing high-altitude in-air refueling missions, and telling the human stories behind the flight line. My job? Get the shot, cut the package, and get it on-air the same day.

That kind of pressure teaches you to think like a storyteller and move like a professional. When I show up to an assignment, I don’t need to be handheld. I plan for contingencies, anticipate problems, and adapt on the fly. Whether it’s chasing golden-hour light across a hangar floor, fighting reflections in a glossy cabin, or capturing a hero shot on an active runway— I’ll get the image. I always do because I am a professional editorial aviation photographer. As we say in the field: it’s ƒ/8 and be there.

Fast, Reliable, Visual Storytelling from a Editorial Aviation Photographer

I now specialize in private jet editorial photography and aviation lifestyle imagery for clients worldwide. My editorial work has covered everything from luxury jet interiors and business aviation operations to hangar architecture, FBO facilities, and even aviation lifestyle stories featuring pilots, families, and support teams. These are more than just pretty pictures—they’re strategic assets that show your readership the heart of aviation excellence.

Editors, here’s what you get when you hire me:

• Experienced Editorial Eye: As a professional Editorial aviation photographer, I know how to tell a complete story through visuals. From wide establishing shots to intimate cockpit moments, I craft editorial narratives with depth and context.
• Fast Turnaround: I shoot, edit, and deliver efficiently. Having spent years in broadcast news, I understand tight deadlines and the importance of timely delivery.
• Collaborative Process: I work closely with editors, art directors, and subjects to ensure the story is authentic and editorially aligned. Whether you need direction, discretion, or full creative freedom—I adapt.
• Availability for Commissions: Based in the Southwest U.S. with easy access to major aviation hubs. Available for select assignments nationally and internationally with advance planning.

Aviation Photography That Works Under Pressure

Unlike many editorial photographers, I come from an environment where you get one shot. Bad weather? Changing light? People not ready? I’ve handled it all, and I’ve still delivered on deadline. The beauty of working with a photographer who knows the aerospace beat is this—you won’t need to worry about a thing. I show up prepared, calm under pressure, and I’ll always come back with what you need (and more).

If you’re a magazine, digital publication, or branded content team looking for a freelance aviation photographer who understands not just how to take pretty pictures, but how to deliver a compelling, editorial-quality photo essay—I’m here for it. I’ve been shooting aircraft since junior high, documenting rocket launches since the 80s, and telling stories with light for over 30 years.

 

Interested in Commissioning a Shoot?

I’m currently available for editorial assignments on topics like:

• Behind-the-scenes of charter operations
• Aircraft deliveries and unveilings
• FBO and hangar profiles
• Pilot and crew lifestyle features
• Interior design case studies for aircraft
• Aviation event coverage

If your team is building a feature, planning a cover story, or seeking fresh visuals for your aviation editorial content, let’s talk. I’d be happy to share samples, discuss logistics, and collaborate on a timeline that fits your needs.

“I treat every assignment like it’s going to press tomorrow—because sometimes, it is.”

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