4e Stearman Speedmail captured by Z 8 / Z24-120
Yeah, August light is simply a challenge, especially at midday. The issue is simple, the range of light is huge, creating either nasty highlights or deep, dark shadows. Shooting B&W is one way to work in this light, lots of drama. Knowing the pilot and meeting him at MSO as they flew cross-country, I made the most of the opportunity. I prearranged for Addison to park right next to the closed hangar door of the Museum of Mountain Flight with the Speedmail pointing towards the sun. He was kind enough to do just that. Then I shot from a low angle. The hangar door bounced light into the fuselage, the strong side light provided direction and shape and the low angle minimized dark shadows. Not a super romantic photograph, but it’s darn clean. It’s just one way to work with that hot August Light.