I'm booked for my first helicopter photography flight next month and I'm getting nervous about camera settings! I've read everything from 1/500 to 1/1000 for shutter speed. What has worked best for you in actual practice?

Also, should I stick with shutter priority or try manual? I'll be using a Canon 5D Mark IV with a 24-70mm f/2.8. Any other tips for a newbie would be amazing!

Thanks in advance - I don't want to mess this up!

I always start with 1/750 minimum - that's the sweet spot for most situations. The key is you're dealing with vibration from the aircraft, not just regular camera shake. Don't go below 1/500 even in good light or you'll get subtle blur.

Shutter priority is definitely your friend here! Set it to 1/1000 if you have decent light and let the camera handle aperture. I learned the hard way that manual mode means taking your eyes off the scenery to fiddle with settings. Trust me, use shutter priority.

Also make sure you set continuous AF mode - your subject is constantly changing distance. And bring extra batteries! The cold air at altitude drains them faster than you'd expect.