Madras, Oregon
The P-51 Mustang is one of the most iconic aircrafts of the Second World War. With its sleek lines and grunty engine, the Mustang is strikingly beautiful as well as deadly effective. Then came the Grim Reaper variant and the true potential of the aircraft was realized. Equipped with six .50-caliber machine guns, the Grim Reaper was a fearsome opponent in dogfights. In addition, its long range and high ceiling made it ideal for escort missions. The P-51 quickly became one of the most feared aircraft in the skies, and its legend lives on to this day.
Beams of sunlight streamed through the windows of the classic hangar creating a patchwork of light and shadow on the floor surrounding the American fighter plane. The light glistened off its metal surface — creating a scene that was both eerie and beautiful. Through the lens it really was an incredible piece of artwork.
The feeling of power and grace that radiated from the plane had to be captured on camera — quickly. Setting up the tripod at this exact perspective was the other key component to the shot, giving it that authoritative stance. The light was perfect, the air was filled with the smell of oil and metal — it was like a dream. Imagining the pilots flying it into battle — I felt a deep respect for their courage.
Today it is still revered by aviation enthusiasts and historians alike, and while it may be relegated to the pages of history, the P-51 will always be remembered as one of the greatest fighter planes ever made.
20 Artist Proof / 200 Limited Edition
