Use a high-quality kite with a kiteline rated at a minimum of 100LB test strength to avoid a mishap with a falling camera.

The camera hangs from a Picavet suspension made of kiteline or string, which adjusts for any sudden kite movements.

The double-lever shutter linkage uses two rubber bands: one to provide tension on the Silly Putty timer, and another to push down on the shutter button.

Illustration by Nik Schulz/ L-Dopa.com

Silly Putty inserted in a tube makes for an ideal viscous timer. The rubber band pulls the pin, applying torque to a dowel in the tube. The pin rotates until it frees the rubber band, and ... click!

KITE AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY

is a low-cost way to take pictures from heights between 25

and 250 feet.

All you need is a kite, a camera (digital or film), a camera rig consisting of a cradle and a suspension system, and a fairly steady wind. The rigs can range from very simple, single-shot devices (like the one you'll make in this project) to complex affairs with wireless remote viewers, and remote control camera controls. (See sidebar, Way to Go Pro.)

The frame, or "cradle," is used to secure the camera in place and to provide a structure for the shutter lever linkage.

This project calls for a
single-use film camera,
but the cradle could be
modified to work with a
digital camera (beware
of crash landings
if you're a beginner).

a

b

c

d

1 min.

Make: 55