DorsetRuss
FollowFour biplanes with smoke trails and wing walkers on
Four biplanes with smoke trails and wing walkers on
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2009
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Awards
Meepo Electric Skateboard
Runner Up in Everything Aircrafts Photo Contest
Runner Up in Adrenaline Photo Contest
Peer Award
Magnificent Capture
Superb Composition
Absolute Masterpiece
Top Choice
All Star
Outstanding Creativity
Virtuoso
Superior Skill
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Behind The Lens
Location
This shot was taken at Farnborough Airshow, U.K.Time
AfternoonLighting
The sky was somewhat overcast and the aircraft smoke contributed to give a dramatic effect. I set the exposure compensation to +2/3 stop to help avoid under-exposure.Equipment
Shot on a Canon EOS 6D with a Canon EF 100-400mm f4.5-5.6 L IS USM zoom lens sat on manfrotto tripod with XPRO 3-Way Geared Head.Inspiration
When visiting airshows I tend to take plenty of batteries and cards and shoot all the displays. Aside from trying to choose a good central spot to shoot from there is an element of luck in terms of where the aircraft travels, the formations they are in and the exact lighting at the time.Editing
I needed to increase the colour temperature in the raw file by approx 1K and boost the Contrast and add some Clarity to bring out the texture of the smoke. Aside from that there was little post-processing work required.In my camera bag
I now use the Canon 5 DSR which is especially great for landscape and capturing incredible detail. For airshows the 100-400mm zoom is good however I would now opt for my Sigma 150-600mm Sport as often the extra reach helps, especially for smaller craft. I've also recently invested in a gimbal head which makes following fast moving objects, whether aircraft or wildlife a lot easier.Feedback
• Go for a fast shutter speed (e.g. 1/1000th) using shutter priority, especially if you don't have a tripod or monopod handy and need to hand hold. • Set AI or Servo autofocus mode and if you have tracking use that to get sharp results. • Set shooting to high speed continuous • Get the best card you can with a good write speed to avoid write delay. Take extra cards if possible - they soon fill up! • Shoot raw • Take spare batteries for the day. • A 400mm or greater lens will give far more results and opportunity to capture great shots. • Exposure compensation against a bright sky is essential - try setting exposure compensation to +1 stop but you may need to go higher. • Be strategic where you stand at shows for clear line of sight of runways and display area maximizes your chances of getting good shots and avoid being near objects that may obstruct line of sight e.g. telegraph poles, buildings etc where possible.