If there’s one place where history comes alive and the skies tell tales of bravery and innovation, it’s the Duxford Summer Air Show. This year, we commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. The show promised not just a spectacle of aviation prowess but a journey through time itself. For photographers, like myself, it’s an opportunity to capture more than just images; it’s about seizing moments steeped in history and emotion. Here’s a peek into my exhilarating day photographing the Duxford Summer Air Show D-Day 80.
The weather in the weeks and days leading up to the show was dreadful. However, I’m delighted to say that fortune smiled upon us on the chosen day. We couldn’t have asked for better conditions for flying and photographing these iconic aircraft.
Some of the magnificent aircraft at Duxford this year
The Atmosphere: Where Past Meets Present
Walking into the Imperial War Museum Duxford is like stepping onto the set of a grand historical epic. The air buzzes with excitement, mingling with the distant roar of engines warming up. Vintage warbirds and contemporary marvels stand side by side, their polished exteriors gleaming under the summer sun. The anticipation is palpable, as enthusiasts, families, and veterans gather, sharing stories and nodding in silent respect to the aircraft that changed the course of history.
The paratroopers
Gear Check: Packing for the Perfect Shot
Armed with my trusty DSLR, a telephoto and a wide-angle lens, I was ready to capture everything from close-up cockpit details to the sweeping aerial displays. Extra batteries, lots of memory cards, and a polarizing filter rounded out my kit. Comfortable shoes, suncream (unbeleavably, probably the first day it’s been used in anger this year) and a hat were lifesavers for a long day of shooting under the sun.
The B17 flying fortress, the Memphis Belle
The Highlights: Capturing the Icons
1. The Spitfire and Hurricane: The heart-pounding moment when these legendary fighters took to the skies was the highlight of the day. Their synchronized maneuvers and the unmistakable growl of their engines were a testament to their enduring legacy.
2. The Memphis Belle: As the iconic B17 Flying Fortress, the Sally B bomber soared overhead, casting its shadow on the crowds below, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. Capturing this behemoth required a combination of wide-angle shots to encompass its size and close-ups to highlight its intricate details and weathered charm. It looked spectacular close up, it sounded even better when the engines were started up and to see it fly, well that was a dream come true, SPECTACULAR!
3. Modern Marvels: The contrast between the vintage warbirds and the sleek, modern jets was a photographer’s dream. The precision aerobatics of the Red Arrows left trails of colored smoke, creating vibrant, dynamic compositions. I switched to my wide-angle lens to capture the full breadth of their breathtaking formations.
4. Dakotas: Not one, not two, but three beautiful Dakotas in a row. I loved watching these aircraft land and take off. Hearing the sputter of the engines as they started up in readiness for taxiing down the runway was a vibrant reminder of what it must have sounded like some 80 years ago when they were preparing for the invasion. The Dakotas were part of the air show, but they were also there to pick up paratroopers and fly them over to Normandy for a jump over one of the famous D-Day landing beaches.
The Dakota
Tips and Tricks: Making the Most of the Air Show
- Timing is Everything: Arrive early to scout the best vantage points.
- Know Your Subjects: Understanding the flight schedules and the unique features of each aircraft helps anticipate the best moments to shoot.
- Be Prepared for Anything: The weather can change in an instant. Adapt quickly and have settings ready for varying light conditions to avoid missing any action.
- Engage with the Community: Chat with fellow enthusiasts and veterans. Their insights and stories can add depth to your photographic journey.
The Aftermath: Reliving the Day
Back home, sifting through thousands of shots, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. Each photograph was a slice of history, a tribute to the men and women who flew these incredible machines and those who continue to preserve their legacy. Editing was about enhancing the story each image told – adjusting contrasts to bring out the details, cropping to focus on the action.
Final Thoughts
The Duxford Summer Air Show D-Day 80 wasn’t just an event; it was an immersive historical experience. For photographers, it’s a playground of nostalgia, heroism, and cutting-edge aviation. As the last echoes of the engines faded and the crowd dispersed, I knew I had captured more than just images – I had bottled the essence of an era, ready to be shared and remembered.
So, whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a history buff, or a photography aficionado, mark your calendar for the next Duxford Air Show. Trust me, it’s a day you won’t want to miss – and one that your camera will thank you for.
Chocks awaaaaaaay!
The Shortbread Shed 