Overview
A pilot was engaged in low-altitude commercial photography operations. The flight was conducted solo, with the pilot attempting to fly the aircraft from the right seat while simultaneously operating a 35 mm camera for aerial photography, all at a low altitude.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported observing the aircraft operating at a very low altitude in the area for the preceding two to three days. The witness closest to the crash site provided detailed observations of the aircraft's flight pattern. According to this witness, the aircraft would make a straight pass near a homesite, add power, start a climbing turn to reverse direction, and when established straight and level again, decrease power.
Accident Sequence
On the last pass prior to the accident, the aircraft entered a climbing turn to the left. Witnesses observed the nose drop, and the aircraft disappeared behind a tree line located between two open fields.
Wreckage Discovery
Approximately 20 minutes later, another witness discovered the wreckage. No other details regarding the condition of the wreckage or the pilot were provided in the source.
Pilot Activities
The pilot was conducting the photography operation solo, flying from the right seat while also taking photographs with a 35 mm camera. The entire operation was performed at low altitude. The source did not specify the aircraft type, registration, number of engines, date, operator, location, number of occupants, injuries, damage items, time of day, weather conditions, or ATC involvement.