This F-22 Raptor was one of two on display at the Australian International Air Show in March this year. The stealth fighters did not actually take part in the air show, but drew huge crowds during the event.
As one of the pilots told me, the two Raptors had flown non-stop, refuelling repeatedly in mid-air during the long haul from their base in Japan – where they spend the winter months away from Anchorage, Alaska.
It’s always a huge challenge to get a runway shot of an aircraft without any bystanders in the frame – and as you can imagine, with hundreds of aviation fans milling around, I had to wait extremely patiently to get a clear field of vision.
I do not crop, enhance or post-edit my images in any way. Shot with a Pentax K100D, using a Sigma 18-125mm lens. F8, 1/500 sec, ISO 200, focal length 125mm.
Thanks very much, Judi. I actually have an interesting shot from the rear of the plane, and will post it on RB one day – there is a certain abstract element to it!
What a awesome looking fighter……..great capture and perspective !!
It is an amazing looking fighter, Sean. I was disappointed that it did not actually fly at the air show, but it was great seeing it on the tarmac and to get a chance to speak to the pilots.
Comments
Fantastic.
Many thanks, Betty. It was great to see these amazing fighters – and to hear what the pilots had to say about them.
– David McMahon
Love the clean sharp lines in this image David! Great capture!
Strangely enough, Robin, the dull weather (grey sky all day with clearing rain) was a huge help in this image.
– David McMahon
Excellent pov. Very unusual angle :)
Thanks very much, Judi. I actually have an interesting shot from the rear of the plane, and will post it on RB one day – there is a certain abstract element to it!
– David McMahon
now thats patience,, the last air show I went to,, no way to get a good clear shot..
love the pov, detail,abstract,,, well seen,,;D
You know exactly what it’s like, Linda – there’s very little chance of a clear shot, especially with the main attraction of an air show!
– David McMahon
Spectacular Image of this sleek looking bird!! Your patients paid off , my friend!! WTG
Many thanks, Carla – it is a very sleek machine, from just about any angle!
– David McMahon
What a menacing looking thing!
You’re right, Shulie! Beautiful lines, but overall, a don’t-mess-with-me message!
– David McMahon
June 26th, 2011
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Mary
That’s wonderful news, Mary. Thank you very much!
– David McMahon
What a awesome looking fighter……..great capture and perspective !!
It is an amazing looking fighter, Sean. I was disappointed that it did not actually fly at the air show, but it was great seeing it on the tarmac and to get a chance to speak to the pilots.
– David McMahon