Avalon Airshow

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Avalon Airshow

Capturing the Sky in Motion

Filmed during the 2023 Avalon Airshow media and trade day, this project exemplifies my ability to film dynamic, large-scale events with creativity, adaptability, and technical precision. Working alongside another camera operator and Wyndham TV's CEO Tim Butler, I was granted media access to get up close to the aircraft, pilots, and behind-the-scenes moments that most people don’t get to see.

Filming Under Pressure – In the Air and On the Ground

This wasn’t your average shoot. My role demanded versatility-whether capturing low-flying aerobatics or navigating fast-moving scenes from the air. I shot both aerial and ground footage, working in constantly shifting lighting conditions and tight timeframes. One of the standout experiences was filming mid-flight from inside a helicopter, using a DSLR while communicating via headset with the pilot. This offered stunning perspectives of the airshow and highlighted my ability to operate in high-stress environments.

Me filming mid flight inside a helicopter — In-flight perspective: Documenting the airshow from above with DSLR in hand.

Behind-the-Scenes Access

Being on location gave me the unique opportunity to film both civilian and military aircraft up close. I worked with a second camera operator to coordinate coverage of key aircraft and displays, maximising our filming reach. Before takeoff, we prepared and briefed extensively to ensure smooth communication and optimal camera placement during our aerial shoot.

Myself and another camera person getting ready to board a helicopter for our filming shoot — Ready for lift-off: Preparing to board for aerial filming.

Working Live – A Nighttime Aerial Display

Screenshot from my livestream that shows a plane in flying in the night sky releasing pyrotechnics — Screenshot from the livestream: Aircraft lights up the sky with a fireworks display.

One of the most technically challenging segments was livestreaming a night-time performance featuring aircraft flying at high speed while releasing pyrotechnics. This demanded precision focus, smooth tracking, and adaptability to shifting light conditions-all while streaming live to a large audience. Balancing focus, zoom, and camera movement in such a dynamic setting tested and showcased my skills in real-time videography.

Me sitting on a chair at the air show near my camera equipment — Coordinating livestream logistics during a break in filming.

Storytelling Through the Lens

While I wasn’t able to include footage from every flight I took part in-including a test flight inside a Honeywell aircraft-the footage I did capture tells a strong visual story of the event. The final video includes seamless cuts between high-octane flyovers, detailed aircraft closeups, and wide environmental shots-highlighting my storytelling instincts and post-production finesse.

A military aircraft flying over the golden hour sunset — Golden hour at Avalon: Lining up the perfect shot.

Final Thoughts

This project highlights my event videography strengths: on-location filming, rapid adaptation, technical agility, and a strong eye for composition and narrative. The Avalon Airshow was as intense as it was inspiring-and capturing it for a wide audience was a creative and professional milestone I’m proud of.

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