Chicago Air and Water Show 2016

Friday, August 19, 2016

On Friday, August 19, the rehearsal for the 58th Chicago Air and Water Show took place.  After a downpour in the morning, the skies cleared up, and the roar of the jets could be heard over Chicago.

The centerpoint of the show is at North Avenue Beach in Chicago.  Many people gathered along the lakefront this day before the weekend event, because they realized that the rehearsal is just as dynamic as the official show that takes place on Saturday and Sunday.

I find it exhilarating to photograph the fast-moving planes as they come across my field of view.  I wait for the instant when the composition comes together - the jet formations, the relationship of the planes and the streams of smoke that form shapes and patterns in the sky.  It is challenging and satisfying when you know that you've got the shot.   As a photographer, you have to react quickly.  Blink and the planes are gone.