In seeking that knowledge, when I meet someone who has a lot and is willing to share, I’m a leach! You better light that cigarette because you’re going to have to burn me off when you start talking history. Those who know me know how I love US history and man, did I fall into a great peak at that history. What you see here is the interior of a B-24 Liberator, a plane that still flies (though not flying right this moment), as it has been since the 1940 when it was built. Other then some nose art for a part is played in a movie, it’s has it always has been, a time capsule of an era long ago. If you’re not aware of the B-24, I highly recommend you read The Wild Blue which is a great read!
World, say hi to Paul, the man who not only shared his passion for this great piece of history, but took us behind the scenes to see and photograph it. One of the true highlights of my weekend was to get to know Paul, hear so many stories and learn so much. Part of the restoration team at Fantasy of Flight (at it for 21yrs), Paul is use to the planes being the focus of attention. He is not use to the camera being pointed at him. But after having the tour of the B-24 and seeing him beam with pride for this aircraft, I had to make a portrait of him. With those giant hangar doors open and all that indirect light, it was a no-brainer when it comes to lighting. Getting him in front of the prop, arms folded and feeling comfortable, that was a little bit of challenge. It only took moments but I’m sure it felt like a lifetime but I like how it turned out. The ironic thing for me, I had just purchased and had rushed down to me the LumiQuest Softbox for just a scenario. And of all the images I made this day, this portrait is my favorite and that has nothing to do with technical merits, it never does. It’s because of the relationship made with the subject. Be it rock or tree, rabbit or bird, plane or person, it is that relationship that makes a photograph special!
Photos captured by D3x, 24f1.4 AFS on Lexar UDMA digital film