Interview Four: The Lockheed 12A Electra Junior
David Marco's Lockheed 12A Electra Junior photographed over Lakeland, Florida.
In a short period of time, the Lockheed 12A Electra Junior has become one of my favorite aircraft to photograph. The elegant lines with a subtle yet distinctive touch of "art deco" renders it irresistible in my eyes. I believe "eye candy" is the current phrase that sums up my feelings about this aircraft...it just seems "right".
Apparently many other folks agree, including the owner of this fully restored example, David Marco. David grew up in an aviation family, and has experience with many different aircraft, including the P-51 Mustang, the DeHavilland Beaver, and others. But when you listen to his interview that accompanies this image in the exhibition, it's not hard to discern the excitement and joy that he experiences when flying the Electra.
This image was made above the skies of Lakeland, Florida, during the annual Sun 'n Fun gathering in the spring of 2012. I was in a Cessna 210, flown superbly by Bruce Moore, who is a veteran at this kind of activity. The rear baggage door was removed, along with the rear seat, so I was essentially able to recline in the back, shooting out the open door. It proved to be very stable and controllable, which allowed for sharp images at lower shutter speeds, around 1/60th of a second, hand-held. I wouldn't recommend it for everyone, but since I have a steady hand, and a well-practiced shutter finger, it all worked out well.
David was extremely happy with the resulting images, and now has a large print on the wall of this office. A terrific reminder of a great day.
Created as part of the Reaching High exhibition, now currently showing at the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville, Georgia, until 30 November, 2013.
