My top 10 photos for the entirety of 2023 would be this small selection. These are shots that I'm not sure I will be able to replicate ever again. With cases such as TF-51D 'Contrary Mary' being shipped off to the states away from the UK Airshow circuit and a rare appearance of what was nicknamed 'The Belgian's' at the Sleap international Fly-in. 2x PC-3s and a L12 Electra all with engines running side by side. A miracle to say for sure.
Another rarity would be the appearance of a swept wing classic jet on the UK Airshow circuit displaying at the midlands air festival in 2023. The appearance of the SAAB Draken came as a shock to all with its UFO like shape and how it even breaks the current CAA regulations for a fast jet display!
But not to miss off of the list this year would have to be the B-17G flying fortress 'Sally B' and Avro Lancaster B.1 'Leader' conducting a special commemoration display which hadn't been seen in the air since before I was born. I did manage to capture some excellent shots of this formation but the addition of a Twin seat Buchon into the frame made it 100 times better just adding to how rare of a shot it was!
For an Airshow season I would say that 2023 has been rather successful and is a welcoming return after lockdown cancellations. With more people joining the hobby and coming into photography at all ages I would say that there has been no better time for anyone to join with new restorations and chances to catch military retirements before they are gone forever! One highlight for me this year would be the people I got to meet. I count myself as one of the lucky ones with how many amazing people I had the opportunity to meet and become friends with! With all this growth on my Instagram account I can't wait to see what 2024 brings!
Even thought I wasn't able to attend every Airshow I wished to in 2023 I still feel that I managed to attend a fair few and capture some very rare shots that may never ever be repeated. I would say that I've come pretty far in my aircraft photography in just under 2 years!
