Boston POTN Meet

[scotteisenphotography]

Hey Scott, I'm over in Pembroke.

I was just there in Pembroke today. Had to take some photos at the golf course...was there last week taking tennis and baseball photos too!

[polarbare]

Hey guys (and gals). I'm heading up a Boston Harbor Photo Walk as part of the Kelby Worldwide Photo Walk Day on July 18th. Would love to see some of you there if you're going to be around. (No cost, just registration)

Boston Harbor Photo Walk (http://worldwidephotowalk.com/boston----seaport-to-north-end-ma-usa/)

[Mike Photo]

I'm over in Pembroke too...

[holland_patrick]

Man I'm going to be away the week of the air show... :(

[terrormav]

hi all. it been a while sence i'v posted anything. so here go's

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=699550

[Harm]

I'll have to check it out when I get back home....all these photo sites are blocked at work :(

[Harm]

wow, this place is very active this past week...it'll take me a while to go through the past posts! :rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

[Scottes]

Quiet Please! We're all sleeping.
:D

[Harm]

Ahh sorry, didn't realise it was hibernation time in new england ;)

[funhouse69]

That's Funny I was going to post a few days ago and see what was going on but I think I fell sleep before doing it :-)

Anyway I went to the Wayside Inn Grist Mill on Sunday with a fellow photog in between downpours. The whole area around there is really cool. I thought I post a couple of shots. You can check out the rest in my gallery under "Sight Seeing Trips" if interested.

http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/552256221_E87nX-L.jpg

http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/552296976_9YAZz-L.jpg

http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/552317930_P2hei-L.jpg http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/552320773_hRTh9-L.jpg

[Coppatop85]

If saturday is nice, I think I am going to spend the entire day in Boston taking pictures. Then at night, am going to go to a show at PA's lounge, then hopefully find a spot to take some night time sky-line shots. Anyone have any suggestions besides the Bridge near MGH (I think)?

[HoRnYTuRbO]

east boston, water front/ sea port

[Scottes]

Yes, East Boston. Either Pier's Park, or behind the Hyatt Hotel at the airport.

[donlavange]

The Quonset Air Show is up again June 27/28!

Last year we went out with Fred and a second boat. This year they will have the Navy’s Blue Angels and also The Canadian Snowbirds. There are 2 sections to the show…a Morning session and an Afternoon session.

The Canadian Team is scheduled for the morning portion of the program and the Blue Angels are scheduled for the afternoon portion. If we go, we want to be there for both sessions which means we need to depart from the dock in Galilee, RI early in the AM. Remember the show starts at 9AM so it will take about 1 hour to get there from the dock…so we should shove off at 8AM.

Fred is limited to 6 people per boat. If we have more than 6 people (unlikely) we need to have a 2nd which would be available.

Cost with 6, same as last year $100.; anybody interested?

[Harm]

Sorry but no thanks mate. I went last year when the Red Arrows were there, and the show was great, but I've seen the line-up for this year and everything is the same - except sub in the Blue Angels for the Red Arrows. Had the lineup been different I may have, but I'll pass this year.

[donlavange]

Sorry but no thanks mate. I went last year when the Red Arrows were there, and the show was great, but I've seen the line-up for this year and everything is the same - except sub in the Blue Angels for the Red Arrows. Had the lineup been different I may have, but I'll pass this year.

Last year some people who were on the ground at the show got some pretty good stuff as well!

[20DNewbie]

I'll probably be heading down to see the Angels on Sunday(really depends on the weather), there's a proper rodeo up my way in Marshfield that weekend also. Gonna try that out on Friday & Saturday.

[Harm]

May go to the Rodeo show though in Marshfield. Never been to one, so it may be good.

[BillT113]

I'll be at the rodeo, I will be the fat guy with the big belt buckle.

[Harm]

Way to distinguish yourself from everyone else out there. Let me guess, you may have a hat on, and wearing denim too...to really separate yourself from everyone else :)

[BillT113]

maybe shine my boots too

[20DNewbie]

Way to distinguish yourself from everyone else out there. Let me guess, you may have a hat on, and wearing denim too...to really separate yourself from everyone else :)

I don't know, big belt buckles and shiny boots is better than lighting your head on fire any day of the week. :lol:

[BillT113]

I actually don't own a big belt buckle but I may get one just to fit in.

[Mike Photo]

Where in marshfield is the rodeo going to be Ive never been to one... I might check that out.

[20DNewbie]

It's over at the Marshfield Fairgrounds.

Link. (http://www.marshfieldfair.org/direct.htm)

[Harm]

Erm, don't you mean this link?

LINK (http://www.cowboyspirit.org/index.html)

[20DNewbie]

Erm nope, he asked where in Marshfield.

[Scottes]

Is this rodeo really going to be good for photography?

Checking the schedule:
1:00pm Massachusetts Team Penning Competition
3:00pm LIVE Country Music with "Something About Digby"
4:00pm LIVE Country Music with Nicole Frechette
6:00pm Lil' Buckaroos Rodeo: Stick Horse Races, Calf Scramble, and more!
7:00pm Professional Rodeo Performance Begins - Bullriding, Bronc riding, Barrel Racing, and more...

Looks like all of the interesting stuff (other than 1PM) happens at night, which means indoors, which means low lighting.

Anyone know differently?

[Harm]

Erm nope, he asked where in Marshfield.

Doh!

[20DNewbie]

Scottes, I imagine they're going to have it outside where they have the demolition derby during the regular fair. It's been some time since I've been to the fair but if IIRC 90% of what happens there is outdoors. I'll try to find it on google earth and post a screenshot of it.

Doh!

:lol:

[20DNewbie]

Here you go.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3602/3613544973_7abde1c830_o.jpg

[Scottes]

Thanks Christian.

I was thinking of going, but not I think I'll pass due to lighting concerns. Hopefully one of you will prove me wrong, and I'll go next time.

[Harm]

So you'll go to the Airshow instead?

[Scottes]

No, I'm probably going to go birding. Depends on the weather.

[20DNewbie]

Just for a reference post, here's where the Barnstable Fair is held(notice the ring at the northern tip).

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3612/3614602844_cf14c61476_o.jpg

And a shot taken at 7:41 pm at above ring.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3261/2682544387_44d457f8e2_o.jpg

I'm just thinking the light would be much better at Marshfield with the sun behind us at that time of day given the lack of trees blocking it. That and the sun isn't setting till 8:25 on all three days.

Link. (http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/astronomy.html?n=43&month=6&year=2009&obj=sun&afl=-11&day=1)

Just a thought.

[donlavange]

I'll probably be heading down to see the Angels on Sunday(really depends on the weather), there's a proper rodeo up my way in Marshfield that weekend also. Gonna try that out on Friday & Saturday.

I used to love the Marshfield fair when I was a kid! I grew up in nearby Scituate.

[Down_Shift]

Hey guys. I'm up to do a photowalk or something on the weekends. What's going on this month?

[Scottes]

So far, the Rodeo seen a couple posts above, and the air show at Quonset is discussed a page back.

Got any ideas for a walk somewhere?

[Down_Shift]

I don't know how long these walks are usually.. I've been shooting alot at night, especially alleys, stills, etc.
I plan on doing a solo walk one of these weekends from Chinatown, down Backbay/Newbury,Fens, Charles River, Comm Ave/Storrow.

These were around Fens on a Friday night during the Winter months.
http://i44.tinypic.com/73kk8y.jpg

http://i40.tinypic.com/2d1k03r.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/qn5w5e.jpg

[Down_Shift]

o btw, names Matt. I'm from Fenway.

[scotteisenphotography]

Cool stuff Matt. I live in Hingham right now, but will be living in Brookline starting in August. I'm a photo major so i'll be up to do tons of photo walks if you're interested.

[Down_Shift]

Cool dude. I'll be around for a while since I'm starting my Doc. in music this fall. You got some good gear!

[scotteisenphotography]

Cool dude. I'll be around for a while since I'm starting my Doc. in music this fall. You got some good gear!

Doctorate in music? Interesting. Yeah...I tend to spend too much money on my gear. Especially being a College freshman...:cool:

[Harm]

G'day Matt, I live up in Melrose, but I work downtown next to the commons - I am always up for wandering about after work hrs.

[scotteisenphotography]

Anyone want to go harbor island exploring in the next month or so? I can bring probably 3 or 4 people on my boat to get there.

[Harm]

Sure thing mate. I don't think I have anything planned for the month of July and am open to anything really.

[Down_Shift]

Doctorate in music? Interesting. Yeah...I tend to spend too much money on my gear. Especially being a College freshman...:cool:

Dude that's insane. You're going to be that one cool freshman with all the cool gear people want to borrow :lol:

G'day Matt, I live up in Melrose, but I work downtown next to the commons - I am always up for wandering about after work hrs.

Sweet. I was done there a few months ago when I first got my camera. Sold my kit lens 18-55is to someone downtown.


Anyone want to go harbor island exploring in the next month or so? I can bring probably 3 or 4 people on my boat to get there.

I'm down as long as it's before July 6th. I'm leaving for Taiwan and SoCal for the month of July. Bought a CompRover pack this week to carry my camera overseas!!

[Evilfooker]

I wouldn't mind traveling up to Boston to snap some photos w/ people of a common interest, but it would have to be in the fall since the summer is when I get the main portion of my business for the year. Or people could come down to the Cape & Islands for some great shots, well once the sky finally reveals the sun for more than one day, lol.

[Harm]

I am still stuck with my kit lens 17-85mm :( But hey, I know it's limits well, and the shots that come from it are pretty decent too. Now I am focusing on getting my skills up with LR2 to PP them. Save up for a nice meaty L lens.

[Down_Shift]

To be honest. I don't think I know enough to take full advantage of the lenses I have now. The 18-55is kit lens was crazy sharp at times and the IS was good too.. definitely worth the $$.

[Harm]

Well after having this lens for just over a year, I've gotten to know it's limits and what it is best used for, but that just comes with using it a lot. Given time, you'll learn the full advantages of your lenses. The one thing I am surprised with is that given how much you use one lens, this one gets slammed by many people, yet their photos aren't really that much better out of the box. As you said, deffo worth the $$

[Down_Shift]

We should talk Scott into bringing all his gear so we can whore it out bw!

[Harm]

We should talk Scott into bringing all his gear so we can whore it out bw!

:lol::lol::lol:

[scotteisenphotography]

We should talk Scott into bringing all his gear so we can whore it out bw!

LOL. Good luck. you'll be lucky to get me with more than 2-3 lenses.I Tend to travel light. =]. Went to the aquarium today.

[donlavange]

I wouldn't mind traveling up to Boston to snap some photos w/ people of a common interest, but it would have to be in the fall since the summer is when I get the main portion of my business for the year. Or people could come down to the Cape & Islands for some great shots, well once the sky finally reveals the sun for more than one day, lol.

I have been down there to your fair island twice this Spring, Mostly roaming around town and shooting a few sets for HDR that are still not processed! Had dinner both nights at Arno's,

[Evilfooker]

Yeah I can say I do love wandering this island w/ the camera, especially now that the weather has cleared up for now. I still have shots I have yet to process and I've had them since Christmas Stroll here (Dec. 6, '08).

[donlavange]

Yeah I can say I do love wandering this island w/ the camera, especially now that the weather has cleared up for now. I still have shots I have yet to process and I've had them since Christmas Stroll here (Dec. 6, '08).

My first trip this year, I brought all my equipment and the SUV. Big mistake, I could have bought a lens for the fare, not to mention the 2 hour trip each way!

The one hour high speed ferry makes it more enjoyable and of course within reason for cost. What do you consider the most appealing spots on the Island for early sunrise and then sunset images?

[Evilfooker]

Early sunrise I would go to Sconset, now that you mention it Sconset is where Sankaty Light house is so a sunrise w/ the lighthouse would probably compose very well. Sunset Madaket, Cisco, Hummock Pond. Pretty much it's hard to find a "bad" spot on the island especially since just now the roses are starting to bloom along w/ alot of other various plant life. I missed getting photos on Daffodil weekend and when the Cherry Blossoms were in full bloom.

also I think it's actually cheaper to fly over from Hyannis than the HS Ferry let alone faster.

I hate the fares for the Slowboat last time I took my car off for a couple weeks it was $450 (roundtrip for just the boat)

[donlavange]

Early sunrise I would go to Sconset, now that you mention it Sconset is where Sankaty Light house is so a sunrise w/ the lighthouse would probably compose very well. Sunset Madaket, Cisco, Hummock Pond. Pretty much it's hard to find a "bad" spot on the island especially since just now the roses are starting to bloom along w/ alot of other various plant life. I missed getting photos on Daffodil weekend and when the Cherry Blossoms were in full bloom.

also I think it's actually cheaper to fly over from Hyannis than the HS Ferry let alone faster.

I hate the fares for the Slowboat last time I took my car off for a couple weeks it was $450 (roundtrip for just the boat)

Thanks, I am working on a schedule now.

Yeah, the $450 deal for the car is about what hit me. Lot for a day!! Heck, a lot for any period!

[symbolphoto]

As long as we are on the subject of meets.... I have a guy that has a helicopter.

He's willing to take 3 people around boston for $180. for one hour. So that's $180 each person for one hour. We'd need 3 solid folks, no flakes, to make a ride happen.

He'll fly with the doors off (Assuming you are ok with that, i've done it, it's fine) and you can shoot to your hearts content. He'll hover for you to get a shot, you give him a heading and he'll park it there as long as you want. Each person could probably fit about 3 lenses on their person. Best in a vest, or something you can attached to your upper body.

If anyone is interested, post here. $180 is a little steep for some folks. But then again when will you have another chance to ride about Boston in a Helo that is at your beck and call for photos? The pilot is willing to go up any hour on any day. So that's entirely up to us...

Pilot is very cool and works with the studios in the area, so he's used to a lot of film work and hovering for shots. I've ridden in it and it's perfectly stable and not choppy at all.

If anyone is interested. Post here. We'll stop at 4-5 in case one or two folks flake.

[symbolphoto]

Oh i should probably mention, it's a Boston trip. Or 'Mission' as he likes to call it.

Tobin Bridge, above Zakim Bridge, Waterfront (Near the airport, some restrictions, but not as many as you'd think), and Fenway/Backbay areas...

[Scottes]

Brendan, I'm very interested.

A few questions though... I've heard a rumor that there's a no-fly zone inside Rt 128. Is that the case, do you know?
Where does he fly out of?
How low can he go?


By the way, $180 is cheap! Check out these prices:
http://www.heliops.com/Tours.html
$299 for 35 minutes...

[CyberDyneSystems]

Now that's different!

If it's o-kay with you, I'd like to go along on the Boston Mission!

Is this a sunrise type thing?

[symbolphoto]

Brendan, I'm very interested.

A few questions though... I've heard a rumor that there's a no-fly zone inside Rt 128. Is that the case, do you know?
Where does he fly out of?
How low can he go?


By the way, $180 is cheap! Check out these prices:
http://www.heliops.com/Tours.html
$299 for 35 minutes...

1. No-fly inside 128 is not true.

2. We can meet him on the South Shore. Around the marshfield/hingham area.

3. He can go low, within reason. Depends on the location. Tobin area, i'm guessing if he stays a little back, he can level with it. As he probably could with the prudential. But he can't panic anyone on the ground and he's really conscious of that. I've flown with him under 100ft in some areas... he's a little nutty, but safe. He's willing to get in and get the shot. So you wouldn't be disappointed.

[symbolphoto]

Is this a sunrise type thing?

Well, i've contemplated this quite a bit. With Boston, during sunrise you'd only get a few things well. The waterfront and Tobin is nice in the morning. The pru and fenway and such are nice during the evening. So it's a real toss-up. My personal preference is during the late afternoon. Just a hair before sunset.

[sfaust]

As long as we are on the subject of meets.... I have a guy that has a helicopter.

He's willing to take 3 people around ...

What make helicopter? What areas of Boston?

i was thinking of hiring a heli to shoot over Boston, but perhaps this might work instead. $180 sure beats the $750 an hour I was quoted for going up by myself.

Some thoughts for those that have never shot in a heli with the doors off...

Use a neck strap or other retention device for your equipment. Its best to use only one lens if you are alone, or have a person help you with changing your lens. Its real easy to drop something when you are sitting on the edge of the door, juggling a camera body, two lenses, lens caps, wind and rotor wash, etc. If you drop a lens, you could kill someone on the ground, If something blows back into the tail rotor, it could cause a T/R failure which means you are going down now!.

You will get some rotor wash at the door opening that wants to push the camera, and causes some unwanted lens motion. It happens both in flight and during a hover. Its not real bad, but something to be aware of so it's not unexpected.

Oh yea, keep the seat belt tight! Its really not scary since coordinated turns never make you feel like you will fall, etc. You are always planted in your seat really well. But looking down in a tight high bank turn can play tricks with your mind ;)

[20DNewbie]

Wicked friggin pissa idea!

Any idea on how often you guy would be able to do this?

[symbolphoto]

What make helicopter? What areas of Boston?

i was thinking of hiring a heli to shoot over Boston, but perhaps this might work instead. $180 sure beats the $750 an hour I was quoted for going up by myself.

Some thoughts for those that have never shot in a heli with the doors off...

Use a neck strap or other retention device for your equipment. Its best to use only one lens if you are alone, or have a person help you with changing your lens. Its real easy to drop something when you are sitting on the edge of the door, juggling a camera body, two lenses, lens caps, wind and rotor wash, etc. If you drop a lens, you could kill someone on the ground, If something blows back into the tail rotor, it could cause a T/R failure which means you are going down now!.

You will get some rotor wash at the door opening that wants to push the camera, and causes some unwanted lens motion. It happens both in flight and during a hover. Its not real bad, but something to be aware of so it's not unexpected.

Oh yea, keep the seat belt tight! Its really not scary since coordinated turns never make you feel like you will fall, etc. You are always planted in your seat really well. But looking down in a tight high bank turn can play tricks with your mind ;)

Not sure on the make, but it's a 4 seater. Hence 3 folks. Any areas we designate. Hell we can make it longer if needed. I figured an hour might be ok, but hell, the longer the better.

Neck strap is key. Especially to change lenses. I brought one lens last time, but quickly regretted it. 3 is a happy medium.

And as for the rotor wash, it's like putting your hand out a car window at 60-80 mph. It's not going to suck you out or anything, but it'll certainly move your hand a little bit. Higher shutter speeds are key.

[symbolphoto]

Oh and size limitations, the helo is a bit 'tight' we did however have a friend up yesterday that was 6' 4" and he fit in no problems.

[sfaust]

Sounds like a R44. I used one in Aruba doing aerials of the resorts. There was only two of us on that trip, so it wasn't all that tight. Nice flying heli and not a bad choice if a JetRanger is too expensive.

http://www.aircharternetwork.com.au/images/aircraft/helicopters/ROBINSON-44.jpg

[symbolphoto]

Yeah that looks like it.

Ok, who's in?

[Scottes]

Yeah that looks like it.

Ok, who's in?
Me.

[Harm]

I'd love to do something like that. $180 for a 'copter ride is a bargain. If anyone can spare me a (L)lens other than my kit one too, I'd be buying you drinks all night afterwards!

[symbolphoto]

I'd love to do something like that. $180 for a 'copter ride is a bargain. If anyone can spare me a (L)lens other than my kit one too, I'd be buying you drinks all night afterwards!

Is that an 'In'?

[Scottes]

Harm, I have a Tamron 28-75mm you can borrow, and a 100-300 cheapie.


Speaking of that, what lenses should we bring? The 10-20 and the 24-70 are definite. Is it worth bringing the 100-400? Or the 85mm just to get a little more reach over the 24-70?

[Harm]

Sure, count me in.

[symbolphoto]

Harm, I have a Tamron 28-75mm you can borrow, and a 100-300 cheapie.


Speaking of that, what lenses should we bring? The 10-20 and the 24-70 are definite. Is it worth bringing the 100-400? Or the 85mm just to get a little more reach over the 24-70?

Well to really lock it in, i'd say 24-70 and 100-400 is all you'd need. Covers the Wide, Mid, Zoom. If you are shooting cropped though, i may bring the 10-22.

My personal opionion, for full frame, is 12-24, 24-70, 100-400 would cover everything.

[Harm]

Speaking of that, what lenses should we bring? The 10-20 and the 24-70 are definite. Is it worth bringing the 100-400? Or the 85mm just to get a little more reach over the 24-70?

I'd bring the 85 over the 70. More reach. You would already have the lower end covered, so you may as well go a little further than just 70. Esp from a helicopter.

[symbolphoto]

I'd bring the 85 over the 70. More reach. You would already have the lower end covered, so you may as well go a little further than just 70. Esp from a helicopter.

Yeah i can only speak for my personal preferences. As you'll find out it's really a personal preference sort of thing.

One thing to keep in mind though is distance. There could possibly be times when he can't get closer. So the reach could be useful, hence the 100-400. Just a thought, i wouldn't bring anything physically bigger than the 100-400. Quarters could be slightly cramped with all the gear. The largest i would go is 100-400 extended for size.

I know some of you bastards are rolling around with 400 2.8's at the house.

[Harm]

Well, this is where I speak from what I see - not from what I have, because I only have a 40D and a 17-85mm. I'd have thought that the 400 may be a bit too much. 2-300 would probably suffice, assuming that you want to go for some shots that portrait some height from the helicopter, rather than zooming right in on an subject - but as you say, it is all personal preference that dictates what you bring.

My thoughts would have been prob a 35L, 85L and 200L (perhaps 300 at a push) to give you a wide, mid and zoom choice. Anything larger than that would just be too much to handle. I supposed I could rent a lens!

[symbolphoto]

Renting may work here.

I think of using a 400 on like, the prudential, up close and personal. Or perhaps a plaque/inscription at the top of a bridge... there were some moments where i wish i could zoom in on some people down below.. just for fun.

[symbolphoto]

Ok, we've got two... i'm assuming there is more interest, but some folks don't check the forums until after hours. So i'd assume DonL or CDS may fill this third seat. How about the second run? We'll do 3 on that as well? If not, we'll stick to the first 3 on which is now comprised of:

Run 1
1. Scottes
2. Harm
3. ?

Run 2 (Possible)
1. ?
2. ?
3. ?

[Harm]

Now "when" were you thinking of doing such a stunt? right now, I have between now and the beginning of august free, esp on the weekends.

[symbolphoto]

I was hoping for a day in July. I have some shoots during the weekends, but since we probably wouldn't even take off until about 6:30pm we'd be good.

[Harm]

Good, good, waiting for better, warmer, clearer weather. I like your style

[symbolphoto]

Yeah, let's hope. July is good, when it's hot out the sunsets are more dramatic.

[sfaust]

Not sure if you can count me 'IN' yet, but definitely tempted. I need to check my calendar to be 100% certain I can make it.

Harm, if I do go you are welcome to share my L lenses if you don't drop them out the window, and I'm not using it at the time ;) I'd probably bring the 17-40L, 24-70L, and the 70-200L, while using the 24-70L for the most part.

Depending on what you are shooting, 24mm to 200mm is plenty of range. This image was taken with a 24mm, but I wish I had a wider view for a more panoramic view from the cockpit. But in general, I find mostly I shoot from 24mm to around 150mm, with the wider end being more visually interesting IMO for most subjects.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3241/2386886055_80ec5d91c3.jpg


Here is another at the longer end, 120mm.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3133/2384823942_bc817c300a.jpg


And one in the middle at 70mm
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2229/2383993391_25478bbac8.jpg

[Scottes]

July 11th and 12th is my best possible weekend.

And the Tall Ships will be in harbor... Maybe moving around?

[symbolphoto]

^^ That's some great stuff. I love the old shipwreck.

Yeah, it's funny. When on the ground here in Boston. You think the water is quite dingy and disgusting, but when you see it from the sun's perspective, it's actually quite translucent.

Edit: Link removed, screws up my stats. :)

We were just getting acquainted with shooting with the doors off. No serious shots there. And i only had my 17-40. Big mistake.

[sfaust]

Yeah, let's hope. July is good, when it's hot out the sunsets are more dramatic.

You may want to talk with the pilot. He may not be comfortable hovering on a hot summer day with a full load on board. The helicopters performance is reduced in hot weather vs cold, he will most likely be at lower altitudes for better images, and the thought of having to autorotate over Boston in a near capacity situation on a hot summer day might give him the willies. I know it would me ;)

Fall (or spring) would being colder weather, better performance, clearer skies with less haze, and some nice foliage as a bonus. But I agree, summer brings some nice sunsets due to the haze. Tradeoffs, tradeoffs....

[symbolphoto]

You may want to talk with the pilot. He may not be comfortable hovering on a hot summer day with a full load on board. The helicopters performance is reduced in hot weather vs cold, he will most likely be at lower altitudes for better images, and the thought of having to autorotate over Boston in a near capacity situation on a hot summer day might give him the willies. I know it would me ;)

Fall (or spring) would being colder weather, better performance, clearer skies with less haze, and some nice foliage as a bonus. But I agree, summer brings some nice sunsets due to the haze. Tradeoffs, tradeoffs....

He's the one that suggested July as well. So while you may be very well versed in helicopters and such, he has the ultimate say. If he's suggesting, i'm going to guess he's comfortable.

[sfaust]

He's the one that suggested July as well. So while you may be very well versed in helicopters and such, he has the ultimate say. If he's suggesting, i'm going to guess he's comfortable.

Absolutely, its always the pilots decision. He knows his heli better than anyone else. I just know a lot of heli pilots that won't hover with a full load on a hot summer day unless they reduced their capacity. They may just be overly cautious, or others may be overly adventurous, I couldn't say.

I just brought it up in case he is thinking 3 on board vs 4, and someone would be left at the helipad. But if he suggested it, he is obviously comfortable with it and there is no issue :)

[symbolphoto]

ok, anyone else?

[acousticvibrations]

Now that's different!

If it's o-kay with you, I'd like to go along on the Boston Mission!

Is this a sunrise type thing?


I do not know whats scarier, the older avatar or the new younger one?

this one is great!

[Harm]

damn silly thing won't let me respond on this thread!

[Harm]

ahh well, multiquote gone...I was going to say thanks for the lens offer, and I didn't know that helicopters did not like a full load, hovering in the summertime.

[symbolphoto]

So Harm and Scottes... no other takers? I'm surprised. I though people would be falling over each other on this. Unique pics of Boston?.. dam that sells itself.

[Harm]

Me too, unless people haven't checked out the thread in a wee while. There would be plenty of others who would jump at the chance, i am sure.

There are plenty in one of the Flickr Boston groups who would foam at the mouth for a chance like this.

[symbolphoto]

Me too, unless people haven't checked out the thread in a wee while. There would be plenty of others who would jump at the chance, i am sure.

There are plenty in one of the Flickr Boston groups who would foam at the mouth for a chance like this.

Hmm i'm not on flickr. I'm sure he's willing to let anyone up as long as they don't flake. I'm sure he'll require a deposit at some point. Harm, if interested, could you post on Flickr.?

[Harm]

Well we can wait and see if anyone from here wants to come first, before I'll post somethign up on Flickr. Give a fair chance to those who frequent this thread. If nobody else says anything by say, monday afternoon (I cannot get on to flickr at work - it is now blocked), then I can put something up on there for you. I'll make sure no flakers.

Deposit is no problem. Half when we get a firm date, and half when we meet up or something? Any weight / height restrictions? I should be fine, was on a 'copter down in Vegas last year, had no issues then.

[Scottes]

So Harm and Scottes... no other takers?
It's only been 24 hours. Might want to give people a few days.

[symbolphoto]

Sure that sounds good. Half/Half should work. I'll double check with him with the rest of the details today.

[symbolphoto]

It's only been 24 hours. Might want to give people a few days.

True. How have things been?..

[Scottes]

True. How have things been?..
Better now. Went through some "life is hell" about 1.5 years ago, didn't take a shot for a long time, finally bought a 50D in November, didn't touch it until last month, life is no longer hell, but the job still sucks, so getting out and taking pictures helps.

[Scottes]

Another expensive photo op, if anyone else is interested... I brought this up in the past, but now that it's almost time...

A few of us are renting a small boat for the Tall Ships on July 8th. Don Lavange, FlyFisher (Steve) and I are in for $150 each. We have one more spot, which would give 4 of us 8 hours on a 22-footer in the harbor while the ships come in.

A bunch of us did this a couple years ago, for the Tall Ships in Newport. It was fantastic. And recently I stood onshore for the Volvo Races, and there is no comparison. Having a boat means no crowds, the ability to move all around the harbor, full command of where to go and when, and no boats in front of you (which really sucked at Volvo, IMHO). If you have any interest in shooting the Tall Ships, and can afford the $150, there is simply no comparison - the boat is the way to go.

Is anyone else interested? We have 1 spot available (unless several people are interested).

[Harm]

I was looking at your site to see how your Volvo Ocean race shots came out (I too was on the shore side, and I'll get my shots up one day - retarting up old shots with Lightroom 2 right now!), and found your Rum Ranking. I loved Havana Club when I was in the UK, but when I moved here, I cannot find it, damn banned cuban goods!! I miss that stuff.

[Scottes]

I'm working on a proper gallery, but it doesn't have any Volvo pics - despite being on a boat one day and on the shore another day. Being on a big "tourist" boat means you have to fight for rail space (300+ people on board, enough railing for 20 on each side), and they barely move around (so all the smaller agile boats are in the way). Being on shore meant there were more boats in the way, and you need a longer lens and the problems that come with shooting long distances with haze in the air. So I didn't get a single shot, even a mediocre one.

[bryanj87]

Man, a heli tour of Boston and I can't go. :(

I took a heli tour of Newport, RI a few years ago and it was awesome. No doors on the cab, it was a little scary. Of course, it was a small copter that really got tossed around by the wind, but you guys should be fine. You all better post some shots here!

[CyberDyneSystems]

... My personal preference is during the late afternoon. Just a hair before sunset.

Sounds better, we are more sure of everything at that point weather wise as well...

[Scottes]

Sounds better, we are more sure of everything at that point weather wise as well...
Does that mean that you're confirmed for the last seat?

[CyberDyneSystems]

I was confirmed the first time I asked if I could go as far as I was concerned!

:lol:

Yes, sorry my PC is giving me issues, but I am for it!


I was only unsure of day?

[polarbare]

A few friends went up in a heli a month or two ago and got great shots all over the city.. The ones around Fenway Park were some of the best, you guys should have an awesome time.

Sorry I missed everyone @ the Volvo Ocean Race departure. Maybe next time.

[sfaust]

ahh well, multiquote gone...I was going to say thanks for the lens offer, and I didn't know that helicopters did not like a full load, hovering in the summertime.

Your welcome on the offer. It would be kind of weird for me to say no. Not my style ;)

Any aircraft has reduced performance in hot weather or at higher altitudes, just physics making itself known. There are many ways for the pilot to deal with it. Less passengers, less fuel, less cargo, etc. I only brought it up originally just in case the pilot may be thinking of leaving a seat empty to keep the load within tolerances, as it might alter the cost per person. But mumbles said it was the pilots idea (July that is), so it obviously isn't an issue. No harm, no foul.

Hopefully this will take place. Shooting from the air opens up all sorts of nice image opportunities, and its a hell of a lot of fun as well. I highly recommended it for those that haven't done so yet. Bring lots of memory cards, and shoot non-stop from lift off to landing!

[swampass2]

Hi all, I'm thinking of trying to shoot some sunrise pics this weekend (weather permitting) and I'm looking for suggested spots in Boston and the immediate suburbs. Looking to use this as practice for a Myrtle Beach trip that I'll be taking soon. Any suggestions are appreciated!

[Harm]

Depends on what you are aiming to capture. The sun rising clouds in colour on buildings? The sun rising over the atlantic horizon? There are plenty of spots to choose from.

[swampass2]

Looking for sunrise over the horizon shots. I've never done this before and figure I should get some practice in before I hit the beach. That being said, where would you recommend? Ideally in the range of Quincy -> Revere.

[HoRnYTuRbO]

Ok, we've got two... i'm assuming there is more interest, but some folks don't check the forums until after hours. So i'd assume DonL or CDS may fill this third seat. How about the second run? We'll do 3 on that as well? If not, we'll stick to the first 3 on which is now comprised of:

Run 1
1. Scottes
2. Harm
3. ?

Run 2 (Possible)
1. ?
2. ?
3. ?


still got room for me :D

[symbolphoto]

still got room for me :D

Yep, sure do.

Ok so we have one helo filled. Scotted, Harm and Horny.

That just sounds wrong.

Next helo, we need 1. I'll update the list that horny quoted.

[symbolphoto]

Run 1
1. Scottes
2. Harm
3. CDS

Run 2
1. Brendan
2. Brendan's Friend Amol
3. HornyTurbo

ok, we have two runs. If by some chance three more people come up, we'll do a third.

[Scottes]

#3 should be CDS per post 3411

I was confirmed the first time I asked if I could go as far as I was concerned!

[Harm]

Was CDS talking about the Sunrise boat trip, or the 'copter trip? The way I read it was the boat ride to the islands...

[Scottes]

Well, he replied to Brendan in post 3409, confirmed to me for "the last seat" in post 3410, so let's let him confirm for the third time. :D

[Harm]

ahhh gotcha...

[symbolphoto]

Haha, i read over that. Twice. lol. I'm so used to having to pull CDS's leg to go somewhere....

[symbolphoto]

ok updated the list and moved some folks around where they may be more comfortable knowing each other.

[symbolphoto]

Will get in contact with him tonight. And forward off information. Seating may change based on our availability. I know most of my weekends are booked, but since it's somewhat late, i'm sure there are a few dates that will do.

[Harm]

Great, looking forward to this stunt :)

[Scottes]

Yes, please let us know about dates ASAP, just in case a particular date removes someone from the list.

[Harm]

Well, discounting July 4th weekend, I am free all July, and most of August (not the 1st or 2nd weekend due to a mid-week wedding anniversary, and who knows where I'll end up). Other than that, I am free, even midweek too, should you decide on some late after-work afternoon flying.

[symbolphoto]

ok just got off the phone with him. We knew to avoid the july 4th weekend :) Won't work for just about everyone.

So the dates we have are

July 18th, 19th and 26th.

Anyone in the list have an adversion to these dates? We'll probably try to do both runs on the same day. Unless scehdules dictates otherwise.

[Scottes]

I'm good for all those dates.

[HoRnYTuRbO]

I'm good for all those dates.

ditto

[CyberDyneSystems]

ok just got off the phone with him. We knew to avoid the july 4th weekend :) Won't work for just about everyone.

So the dates we have are

July 18th, 19th and 26th.

Anyone in the list have an adversion to these dates? We'll probably try to do both runs on the same day. Unless scehdules dictates otherwise.

I'm good for the earlier dates, but the 26th may be a problem for me.
I have a big project starting the end of July at work..

[symbolphoto]

ok sounds like the 18th/19th should be good.

[Harm]

Ok, good for me too.

[HoRnYTuRbO]

lol B doorless eh.... this will scare the **** out of me, good stuff =)

u think he'll let me attach a 10ft pole for a crazy ill rig shot?

[Scottes]

u think he'll let me attach a 10ft pole for a crazy ill rig shot?
Hell, *I* won't let you do a damn fool thing like...

Wait, you're not in the chopper with me. Go for it.

:D

[20DNewbie]

u think he'll let me attach a 10ft pole for a crazy ill rig shot?

I don't think that would be a good idea, IIRC the rotor blades put off a decent amount of static electricity.

On the other hand if you've got a dusty sensor and you take the lens off it may pull out all the dust for you. :lol:

[Harm]

Thankfully not only will I NOT be on that flight ;)

[HoRnYTuRbO]

ok... i'll bring eggs and water ballons ;)

[symbolphoto]

Ok good news...

6pm on the 18th it is.

Ready for this? We'll be flying at the same time.... so we can take pics of each other as well! Sweet.....

-B

[Harm]

you friend has 2 helicopters and can fly both at the same time?

6pm on the 18th sounds fine to me.

Should we meet up beforehand (with beers) and kinda discuss / agree where we would like to fly to?

[symbolphoto]

you friend has 2 helicopters and can fly both at the same time?



Yes! :cool:

Second pilot.

you friend has 2 helicopters and can fly both at the same time?
Should we meet up beforehand (with beers) and kinda discuss / agree where we would like to fly to?


I don't mind meeting up. You in Boston Harm? CDS will have the longest to travel most likely. We can meet in the direction of the south shore as well.

[Harm]

Excellent stuff. Beers for the pilots - AFTER the flight!

Yeah, I work downtown by the commons, live to the north, but have no issues getting about.

[CyberDyneSystems]

Ok good news...

6pm on the 18th it is.

Ready for this? We'll be flying at the same time.... so we can take pics of each other as well! Sweet.....

-B

Why do I have Wagner's Ride of the Valkyrie going through my head? :lol:

[symbolphoto]

Why do I have Wagner's Ride of the Valkyrie going through my head? :lol:

:lol: i was thinking the same thing yesterday haha...

[HoRnYTuRbO]

to bad the Sox's are playing away on that day....

[Harm]

True....any events going on at Fenway on that day?

[symbolphoto]

Doesn't appear so. They are out of town all week... Dang. That would be sweet. Oh well.. Maybe next time :)

[Harm]

still, I am not complaining :D