Something VERY Different

[coupekid]

OK, as promised in my previous post of Elise. Did something a wee bit different at the weekend.

One of the guys at work, is a pilot, and he very kindly offered to take me up in a private plane to take some shots.....of course, i jumped at the chance, and it was super fun!

The weather wasnt the best for photography, as it was a little hazy, however, here are some shots which I do hope you enjoy.

First up, some generic lakes in the area, at this height, it is amazing how much greenery we have in this country.



Not sure what this building is, but it looked nice!



This is the Microsoft building(s) in Reading.



Last, and most interesting as far as I am concerned...McLaren.

[Pops]

Re: Something VERY Different

At first I thought the first shot was showing floods then I read your description. It's certainly my favourite.
Maybe someone will identify the building in the 2nd shot. It's well laid out in a symmetric fashion whatever it is.
Must have been a thrilling experience for you.

[Josh Bear]

Re: Something VERY Different

Very interesting. What lens did you use? and did you stick it out the window?

Bes Regards

Josh

[Caz]

Re: Something VERY Different

Good shots Ben, enjoyed them all - and will second Pops in saying that the first one is my favourite.

McLaren - not been there, but remember going on a training day to the Williams place several years ago... think I've still got the complementary pens somewhere!

The day itself was pretty boring - (legal) conveyancing case management systems.. The company I worked for at the time were just changing systems, and it was part of my job to convert all the old documents - oh, so glad I don't have to work with databases any more

The most interesting part of the day was the tour of the museum afterwards - obviously it was all Williams cars, except for one solitary Ferrari which had been traded for a driver (?).

[perrycornish]

Re: Something VERY Different

Hi, Ben,
What a great experience, i've done flights like that but before I was interested in photography Maybe someone will take the hint!
I love that first shot, it's a cracker and am wondering if your No 2 is Broadmoor? Just a shot in the dark but it might be

[coupekid]

Re: Something VERY Different

thanks for all the comments, the lens was actually the standard kit lense.

I shot through the window, alas, couldnt poke it out the window, so had to deal with reflections, which was a bit of a bind.

[Ian]

Re: Something VERY Different

thanks for all the comments, the lens was actually the standard kit lense.

I shot through the window, alas, couldnt poke it out the window, so had to deal with reflections, which was a bit of a bind.

Lucky you

Was it a smooth ride? I've been lucky enough to have a ride in some helicopters in my time, but nothing smaller in the fixed wing category than a 10-seater. You could probably reduce the haze a bit by experimenting with the black point level and contrast.

Ian

[rogleale]

Re: Something VERY Different

Helicopters are easier because you can usually open a window, but you have to avoid letting your hand or arm touch the structure because of the vibration. I find that a UV filter is sometimes effective for cutting down a bit on the haze, and a subtle boost in the saturation helps.

Roger

[Tinka]

Re: Something VERY Different

You lucky lucky fella, I have been up in a small plane but that was years ago and no camera. lovely momento images and I do feel that they can be tweeked OK.

[fluffy penguin]

Re: Something VERY Different

I love that first one, with the lakes.
It is amazing how much green land we have.

Some very lovely shots.

Will you be able to pursaude your friend to take you up again.

If so look forward to some more