Andrew Lewis
About the Image(s)
I've titled this "Low Drop". I heard about a brush fire not too far from where I live, so I headed over. This was taken with a Nikon D850 and a Nikon 200-500 f/5.6 FL-ED lens. I used 1/1250 sec @ f/8 at ISO 160, lens zoomed to 360mm. I wanted to include some of the flame to help tell the story. It's always a battle with the shutter speed. I want it high enough so I don't get any blur from moving the heavy lens, but I want to try to get some blur in the rotors of the helicopter. Being a photojournalistic image, I didn't do a ton in post. A little bit of adjustment to open up the shadows through the harsh sunlight and haze and some dust spot removal.
I hope everyone had a safe holiday.
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11 comments posted
This is a wonderful documentary image. I am amazed to see the helicopter flying that low. To me, that's scary! The ground and flames are too close for my comfort.
I don't think you need the rotors turning, but that made me curious as to how one would do it. I found this article: http://kristofferglenn.com/blog/2016/5/17/prop-blur-is-critical-for-your-photos-of-propeller-driven-aircraft-and-helicopters
There is only so much you can to when it is sunny. But the article suggests, among other things, that a neutral density filter can help on a sunny day. It might be something to try out at your local municipal airport!   Posted: 07/16/2024 17:14:26
You certainly have given this thought. The rotar blages are certainly a factor. When using a long lens I try to use a monopod. It keeps the camera steady and you can still "react" to your subject. I think you did everything right here. I like the tighter crop suggested by Harley. I think Bunny will hereafter be the official Group 43 research person.   Posted: 07/16/2024 17:58:15
I have a monopod and think I even had it in the car that day. I need to get out and practice with it more. I find it tough when I shoot the jets in the canyon and at fires because the aircraft aren't coming through at a constant level. I think mastering the use of the tool will pay off big time.   Posted: 07/26/2024 15:54:04
  Posted: 07/17/2024 03:20:05
Great shot.   Posted: 07/18/2024 14:20:37
I had a pretty good spot for this. I try to choose locations that are close, but safe. I actually had a highway patrol car come "suggest" to us that we might not be in the best spot. I don't like attracting negative attention like that. I thanked the officer and moved on. It's always a struggle. We have an officer who's also a great photographer coming to talk to our local club next month about how to shoot emergency scenes and stay safe. I'm looking forward to it.
I appreciate your thoughts.   Posted: 07/26/2024 15:58:45