T-33/F-80 Shooting Star - Capturing a Classic Fighter

The art of using light as the main ingredient of a photograph sometimes requires that we step away from the accepted cliche to build something from the imagination. I have for many years been fascinated with the history of aviation and the amazing aircraft that majestically sail across the sky. Capturing these airplanes photographically, like sunsets, has been done in just about every conceivable way one can imagine. So when attempting to generate a truly unique look, as a photographer, I must look beyond the ordinary, beyond what has already been attempted, and build upon techniques pioneered by others.

Currently on display at the Bowling Green Aviation Heritage Park are five historically significant military aircraft, with room for more to come. As part of the Beyond the Campfire Adventure Photography series, I am attempting to capture not only the aesthetic beauty of these aircraft, but their legacy as well. One of the most intriguing aircraft on display is the T-33A Trainer derivative of the F-80 Shooting Star fighter, the first operational jet fighter for the United States Air Force.

Using a series of four speed lights combined with some creative lighting techniques, the essence of this beautiful aircraft was recently captured. Please enjoy this video as I demonstrate how this image was created.