Photochrome Camera Club

This popular section of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area provides photographers with one of the premiere hang gliding spots in the nation. It’s classified as a Hang-III (intermediate) site complete with a viewing deck offering spectacular photographic possibilities of soaring hang-gliders.

Anticipation is a key factor in precise timing of exposures for hang gliding images. Hang gliders will often pause or “hang” almost motionless for a few moments when changing flight direction, giving us the opportunity to capture action without image blur. A zoom lens is recommended for shooting as hang gliders soar along the cliff-side.

Other interesting photos may arise during lift-offs or landings. You might want to try some shooting in continuous mode. Even though you may anticipate the hang glider to be in a certain spot at a particular moment, some unexpected change in flight may occur a little later, positioning the craft in a better point of view. Don’t put your camera away after just a few exposures, be ready for the unexpected.

Fort Funston is at GPS coordinates 37.7143 degrees latitude and -122.502 degrees longitude. It’s just west of Hwy 35 (Skyline Blvd) in San Francisco between John Muir Drive and just north of the San Mateo County border. Turn west at the Fort Funston sign and continue to the parking lot. There is no entrance fee. Portable toilets are located in the area. A drinking fountain sits on the southwest corner of the lot, but you might want to bring your own water. You also might want to bring a snack.

See you there!