Up, Up, and Away

Some years ago, I was asked to make photographs that illustrated the idea of being on the edge. This was a perfect assignment for yours truly, since as I described so eloquently last week, my life always seems to be on the edge of some ledge or precipice.

I never seem to have trouble pushing conversation and my physical self to the edge of inappropriateness and danger, but I never seem to make that final leap to intimacy or faith, except with the help of my little camera.

So I came up with some ideas that I felt best suited what I was being asked to illustrate, both because they visually appealed to me, and they were things that felt new.

I know many people are fearful of heights, but this is one fear I do not own. In fact, I feel exhilarated, even joyful at the thrill of standing high up on an edge, looking down below. It’s not that I want to jump, it’s just that at this spot at that time, I feel all is possible. I can see both up and down, and far into the past and future. I have this choice and I love it.

So no wonder I came up with the idea of shooting on a large airplane wing. I could have easily asked to go The Oval Office. It took so much effort (FBI clearance) etc, to finally get permission, both from JFK airport and the airline, to make these pictures.

Eventually my request was granted, and we were allowed one hour (escorted by many guards) to make these pictures. Only the model was allowed on the wing. He was watched and supervised like a hawk. I must admit it made you feel that at least there is some sense of security around these planes. I (the photographer) was not allowed to be on the wing with him. They did provide me with a movable ladder, but as I was racing the clock, I used it only on one or two occasions.

The picture you see is one of my favorites. The scale of the plane, the figure, and one’s imagination all seem to work for me. As we slip the surly bonds and fly, fly, fly, oh, how wonderful it must feel.