When I first started into forward flight I also had terrable problems with orientation. Even with bright colored canopies, see my photo gallery. I just kept with it and finally it just clicked and I started doing much better.

My problem was exiting turns and not knowing if the heli was still rolled to the right or left when far away. Somone told me to remember the heli is doing just what you are telling it to with the sticks. After making close in turns I knew how the heli responded to stick movements so I started the realize it was doing the same thing although further out.

Now I am flying 100'+ high and probably 400'-500' out without any problems at all. Just like anything I think it just takes practice to get used to it.