Shooting a space shuttle launch

Andrew Brinkhaus

Andrew Brinkhaus

Veteran
Hello everyone, I will be shooting NASA's next shuttle launch this coming Thursday night, at 9:30pm. What kind of low-light settings would you all recommend? from a very low light scenario, to suddenly very bright, when the shuttle launches. I would like to retain as much detail on the shuttle, as well as some colors from the blast of the rockets as well as what reflects from the smoke. Thanks!
 
The low light won't be "too" low light. NASA has the pad flooded with lights. As far as how bright? I've seen night launches as far north as Daytona Beach.

When you get to the site, don't be afraid to ask around. I took photos when I was press photographer for the school paper (Embry-Riddle Aero Univ.) and the other guys in the press section were VERY kind. Are you there or on the causeway?

I know once I was set for the bright settings, I waited until t-10 then set the remote to go crazy. After all, the main engines will light around 7 seconds before launch, allowing it to rock back. Then the SRBs will kick in.

If you're on the causeway, you'll get a great reflection on the water. I'd expose for that and let the flames blow out. If you expose properly for the shuttle before launch and then ride the exposure briefly as the main engines kick in, that should give you several seconds until the SRB's ignite, you'll get some great pictures.

Maybe someone else will have some better specifics. Let us know how it goes!

Warm regards,
Scott
 
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