Fly Me to the Moon
Sky above Weston, Fl. Moon; Waxing Crescent phase.
Have you ever looked up at the sky and watched a plane crossing close to the Moon, wondering if you could capture this moment in a freeze-frame image? I was determined to do just that.
Although part of my intention was to use technology resources in planning and shooting a skillful shot, the final outcome showcases the value of preparedness, attention to detail, and adaptability, which can help overcome any obstacle and achieve the expected results, even exceeding them.
After weeks of using a flight tracker app to identify potential plane routes and a Moon tracking app, I charted the Moon's position above my location and cross-referenced this information with the plane's predicted paths to determine the ideal time for the shot.
On the day of the final shot, the sky was mostly cloudy, with almost no wind. However, there was an opening in the sky through which the Moon was visible against the blue background, contrasting with the clouds that unintentionally framed the possible plane's route.
As the plane came into view on my app, then in the sky, and finally through my camera lens, I eagerly pressed the shutter button, capturing a burst of five shots. After reviewing the shots, I chose the one that caught the plane beautifully framed by puffy clouds, with a small jet's trail photobombing the entire scene and adding an unexpected touch of whimsy. The jet's trail perfectly traced a tangent line from the aircraft's tail to the Moon, and I was thrilled with the outcome that exceeded my expectations.
The shot not only represents preparedness and wisdom in overcoming the unexpected, but it also allowed me to admire the beauty of our planet and the interaction that humankind may reach by placing our technology in the sky. And beyond that, the shot allowed me to appreciate the beauty of all these, up to the Moon and beyond.
In the end, the story of this artwork is a perfect example of how humans can use technology as a tool for a creative process and a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things in this incredible universe.