The USAF Thunderbirds 5 and 6 planes doing a mirror image pass.
The USAF Thunderbirds 5 and 6 planes doing a mirror image pass.
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Awards
Contender in the Photography Awards
Contender in the Visual Poetry Project
Zenith Award
Curator's Selection
Top Shot Award 22
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Peer Award
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Absolute Masterpiece
Outstanding Creativity
Superb Composition
Magnificent Capture
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
I took this photo at the Atlanta Air Show. The Thunderbirds were the featured team along with the Canadian Snowbirds.Time
The time was about 3:30pm, Atlanta time.Lighting
The day had started out bright and sunny but in the afternoon, clouds started moving it. The light was changing as the cloud cover thickened and I had to keep adjusting my exposure settings.Equipment
I used a Nikon Z6 with a Tamron 28-400mm zoom lens, hand held in a panning shot. The camera was set in shutter priority mode, 1/1250 second, aperture f/6.3, and ISO 200.Inspiration
I am a Navy veteran and I have always loved shooting aircraft in any setting. I’ve shot the Blue Angels, Thunderbirds, Canadian Snowbirds and numerous other planes from World War II era onward.Editing
I made some minor adjustments to exposure and contrast. I also added a little bit of shadow compensation to bring out some of the detail on the planes.In my camera bag
I carry a Nikon D7500 and a Z6 with various lenses. I have a range from a 35mm prime lens to a 150-600mm zoom. All of my lenses are Nikon or Tamron. I also use a Manfrotto tripod when the situation calls for it.Feedback
Find a spot where you can stand with an unobstructed view. Spot the aircraft through the viewfinder as they approach from left or right. Start with a wider zoom to get the aircraft centered then start zooming in as they get closer. Try to keep a fluid motion centered on the aircraft as they pass. Use continuous shutter release as your camera allows. I typically take 10-12 photos on every pass. It takes practice but you will get better as you go!