Category Archives: Transportation

Things that go

DETAIL :: The Eyes of the Cat

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Chip Bunnell Photography of Event Portraits and Automobiles

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Jaguar has long been a brand associated with luxury, style and performance. Innovative designs are wrapped in a body of long, flowing lines that allow you to longingly gaze upon them for hours. One of my South Florida favorite past times is visiting the numerous auto shows and auctions that come to town. I immediately and unconsciously find myself gravitating to the rows of open-top roadsters. The sun above and wind in what’s left of my hair complete the driving experience. While I have yet to pull out my checkbook and bring one of these magnificent machines to my garage, it is a joy to dream and admire in person what others only see on the pages of magazines. Of all the Jaguars produced, one of my favorites is the XK140.

Produced from 1954 – 1957, the XK140 was a significant improvement over the previous XK120. More power under the bonnet (hood for those of us on this side of the “pond”) meant its performance was just as good as its looks. A little more room leg room added to the comfort. The 1956 model introduced an optional automatic transmission, a first for Jaguar. One small, but important visual distinction between this and the previously similar model is an emblem on the “boot” (trunk) that said “Winner Le Mans 1951 – 3” to celebrate the historic victories.

While I believe the entire car is a work of art, there are many individual details that truly set it apart. In this image, I used a shallow depth of field to give the left headlight a visual punch and allow the rest of the car to fade into the palm trees lined background. In photography, the eyes are the focus and there is no exception with this stunning cat.

Single Frame, Processed in LR, PS and Topaz Clarity

www.ChipBunnell.com

Facing the Devil Dog

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B-25 by Chip Bunnell Photography Events in Palm Beach Miami Florida

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Last week I had the privilege of attending the AirVenture airshow in Oshkosh, WI. This week-long event brings aircraft from all corners and allows this normally quiet air field to gain the title of the “World’s Busiest Control Tower!” Among the 7,000 airplanes involved, there were literally hundreds from the WWII era. The “Devil Dog” is just one that was there.

The B-25 was built by North American Aviation with the goal of being a medium range bomber. In honor of General Billy Mitchell, an early pioneer of military aviation, this became known as the B-25 Mitchell. Built mostly in Kansas City, KS, over 9,000 of these highly effective aircraft were flown. During production, there were a number of variations and improvements made. Most commonly, the B-25 is see with a clear nose that would include a gunner for forward actions. This particular plane is a 1944 Marine model known as a PBJ – Patrol Bomber J (from North American Aviation). It was primarily used for aerial support in Marine operation throughout the Pacific. The B-25 is most notably known for the historic Doolittle Raid.

On April 18, 1942, just months after Pearl Harbor, Lieutenant Colonel Jimmy Doolittle led 16 B-25s in a daring attack against the island of Japan. Many thought this mission was absurd as the plan required these bombers to be launched from an aircraft carrier, something only reserved for fighters and rescue flights. Despite the enormous odds, they did complete the mission, disrupting the Japanese confidence with a fear of future attacks on their homeland. Their story is quite incredible. I encourage you to learn more of their sacrifice at: http://www.doolittleraider.com. Of the 80 involved, there are only 5 of these heroic men still with us today.

I selected this image due to the color and interest the clouds give to the fuselage. From this aggressive angle, it is clear this aircraft means business!

3 Frame Hand-Held HDR, Processed in LR and Topaz Clarity

www.ChipBunnell.com