Airshow - First Pics

[jeff]

Some early shots from this years airshow in Melbourne that started today:

An F16 at take-off



F18 Super Hornet just aloft


That F16 runs by during a high speed, low altitude pass. Was a good test of auto-focus!

[ScottH]

Good shots Jeff.

What lens did you use for most of the time there?
I'm going on Saturday, and was wondering what lenses to take.

[jeff]

These were all taken with a 70-200mm + 1.4TC on my D300 for air shots, but basically take your longest glass. For the exhibits I used my 24mm f1.4

I might go back on Saturday or Sunday myself, the Mrs is cranky I went to the Trade Show without her and my explaination that she is not in the trade meant she couldn't go to the Trade show didn't cut it!

This is the Singaporean F16 running through its handling display rehearsal for the public exhibition...







...as you can see, I have weakness for shooting the engine furnace of fast jets Hope you enjoy your day, don't forget sunscreen (no, really!)

[ScottH]

Thanks Jeff. I figured I'd need my longest, for aerial shots, but that is only 200mm.
I was tossing up between the 50mm, and 18-55 for the on ground shots, but I'm guessing the latter would be best.
Might take all 3 anyway.

And I have sunscreen , and a big hat so I should be right.

I don't mind the afterburner shots, adds a sense of power, or at least potential power.
I'm going on Saturday. See you there.

[Jim]

Love looking at jet fighters. Thanks for posting them Jeff.

[jeff]

Don't stress the 200mm not being long enough, fact is even with a 600mm + TC aircraft still get small very quickly. Like all things that can fly, birds and planes alike; you have to be near them for good photographs...the secret to all good aircraft shots is proximity . ...and I obviously have to get closer yet!!!

[ScottH]

Don't stress the 200mm not being long enough, fact is even with a 600mm + TC aircraft still get small very quickly. Like all things that can fly, birds and planes alike; you have to be near them for good photographs...the secret to all good aircraft shots is proximity . ...and I obviously have to get closer yet!!!

Well, I'll see how I go tmrw.
Thanks for the tip, mate.

[ScottH]

Not my best shot. I have 349 to sort thru, but I thought of you when I saw this.