A couple of additional comments:

1.) I generally shoot behind the strut rather than ahead of it (between the
strut and the fuselage), and usually about the 9 o'clock or even 8 o'clock
position in an effort to keep the strut out of the image. I push the seat back
as far as safe.

2.) I generally shoot at 1/750th, even with the two Canon Image Stabilizing
lens 'on'. 400 speed film. I routinely shoot at 200 - 300mm f/l.

3.) You may want to check the window HINGES, particularly in older 150/152/172
series. They may not have been lubricated in DECADES. One of our PAPA members
reports losing a window in flight because the hinge failed.

4.) I've not encountered any significant yaw , pitch or roll problems in any of
the 150/152 and 172s I have flown with the pilot's side window open, no
tired-leg, etc.

5.) Altitude is your friend. The 1500' agl I typically shoot at gives me a
significant additional margin of safety (over, say, 1000' agl) if I have engine
trouble (and I did), generally has smoother air, fewer TV towers. If you can't
get acceptable images at 1500', maybe you need another lens (or camera). :-)