#aluminum overcast

[thestonecuttersguild]

I was glad to see her in one piece. Hope to one day see her fly again.

Oshkosh 2024

[nocternalrandomness]

Aluminum Overcast climbing out of Deer Valley

[seth-the-giggle-fish]

I finally gave in and bought a 1:48 scale B17G Flying Fortress model

Next up is watching a bunch of videos on other people who've made that kit to pick up some tips and decide if I want to pull my airbrush out of storage or if I'm going to paint it with a regular paint brush

[defcon-leppard]

Aluminum Overcast misses being in the sky.

It shouldn't matter that she was built too late for service. She had a life despite it. She was still important. Many veterans who get to ride on her or Yankee Lady or even Sentimental Journey always disembark smiling. Because they remember that they made it home. Warbirds still in operation regardless of if they saw combat or not tell the stories of the aircraft and the crews that didn't make it home. Everyone's history is mean and messy and full of things to be ashamed of. It doesn't mean we erase all the bad stuff, and treat those who made it home so horrifically they decide it's not worth it to remain among us. It's why I volunteer for and support EAA and Commemorative Air Force. Even if I don't have every single fact, I share what facts I do have, as accurately as I can. So preserving even the ones who didn't enter service is important. I hope to see Aluminum Overcast back in the skies where she belongs sooner rather than later. And hope for more is real. Lacey Lady, the "Gas Station Bomber". Desert Rat. The movie Memphis Belle. They're just as important as their sisters who were shot down or scrapped. We are so incredibly lucky to have these aircraft. They teach us so much. We just need to slow down for a moment to listen.

[lothlorienlover]

B-17 “Aluminum Overcast”

[lazyvoyager]

Unusual muse associations

Thank you @ladyshivs and @rab-bitly for the tag!✨ Sorry i took a while, this was so difficult hahahaha

Levi Turner || Sidestep || Reckoning

SEASONING: Cracked pepper 

WEATHER: The warm dry wind preceding a drastic change in temperature.

COLOUR: Neutrals, browns, desaturated greens.

SKY: Completely overcast, bright white skies. Stuck between cloudy and sun.

MAGICAL POWER: Telepathy and empathy are such a part of his character, I’m sticking with that.

PLANT: Thistle. Striking, stubborn, hardy, and sharp.

WEAPON: Dented aluminum bat.

SUBJECT: sociology, applied mechanics

SOCIAL MEDIA: Lurking in conspiracy forums.

MAKEUP PRODUCT: i have literally no idea

CANDY: One of those awful cereal and milk bars.

FEAR: fear of being buried, or fear of pressure, of being crushed

ICE CUBE SHAPE: hahaha uhhh irregular and broken

METHOD OF LONG-DISTANCE TRAVEL: Road trip in a shitty old car with no air conditioning, or a tiny one-man fishing trawler, also old and beat up. 

ART STYLE: Expressionism

MYTHOLOGICAL CREATURE: Werewolf

PIECE OF STATIONERY: Sharpie

THREE EMOJIS: 💢👊💥

CELESTIAL BODY: Jupiter

[spinchip]

NEVER THE DARK

CHAPTER 5

Read on Ao3

Prologue - Chapter 1 - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 - Chapter 4

Warnings: ...none this chapter? A bit of canon typical violence but thats all

ONE STAYS IN THE PAST AND DIES// ONE PAST SHAPE-SHIFTS WALKS WITH YOU

The sky in the Realm of Madness holds a strange, constantly overcast quality to it. There are always thick gray clouds and mist swallowing up all light, red and purple bleeding through thin transparent wisps of smog. Nya had determined that noon- or whatever the Realm's equivalent of- had already passed, and that while they were lured to Maurice's trap, the sun was at its peak. This thought was… incredibly disheartening, honestly. Even with the sun at its highest point, the land was still drenched in an oppressive dimness, and the pale fog swamping around their bodies and rendering the distance into hazy shapes only added to the gloom. Now that the sun was beginning to go down, the sky was steadily growing darker- not a star was visible in the sky. Once nightfall came, Nya was certain it'd be pitch black out.

Even worse, the constant mist and reduced visibility was messing with Nyas internal compass. Birdy seemed to have no trouble finding his way in the disorienting atmosphere, but Nya quickly realized that, if asked to retrace her steps, she wouldn't be able to do it. Instantly the importance of their guide triples- if the entire realm was similar to the wastelands and the desert with this oppressive smog, then simply asking for directions wouldn't be enough. They'd need an actual escort through this place unless they could find their bearings soon.

On and on they walked in the rapidly darkening light. Jay and Cole had begun to drag their feet, and it was only the stranger amongst them that stopped them from loudly voicing their exhaustion. Nya sympathized- she was exhausted too. They’d been up all night guarding the museum, then fighting, then falling through a portal and following Maurice, and now trekking across the cool sand with a man who was about as trustworthy as copper wire connected to aluminum wire- but they had no choice.

The danger of allowing Birdy to lead them was the only thing keeping Nya on her feet. She had to be ready, just in case he did betray them.

As they trek through the desert, it grows hot and even humid- as if they’d stepped into the everglades and the realm forgot to make a swamp to go with it. More and more of those strange holes littered the ground, deep and dark. In the wet heat, the flowers around them change- their deep red stems split into four, five, sometimes even six thick cords right in the middle that seem to twist and draw the plant closer to the ground. As Nya observes the strange phenomenon, she see’s an animal begin to weasel out of the bars on the inner flower. It’s a long, tubular animal with curly fur that cover any other discernible features, and when it squeezes out of that narrow gap the hair flattens around it to the point Nya is convinced there is no animal under all that fur. A massive, living hairball. It’s covered in purple pollen from the plant's core, and before she can point it out to the others it scampers off into one of the holes.

There’s a pop that makes Nya jump, and she whips around to see one of the flowers that had begun to separate was rapidly dropping to the ground. The five strands its stem split into was forming a perfect basket twist, and large black seeds were visible along the inner wall of the plant, doused in purple pollen.

Birdy swears under his breath, voice rough with disuse, “We need to get to cover, now.” He does a 360 before booking it towards the nearest rock wall, and Nya starts running before she can think about it.

“Why are we running!?” She asks, the others falling in pace behind her.

Birdy skids to a stop just before the wall and looks back, ushering the others in front of him as he keeps an eye on the flower. The rubbery stalk has started to squeak and goran, and the more it twists the more it sounds like a clown making a balloon animal. Once the others are in cover, Birdy scrambles next to them and presses himself back against the wall, “These flowers have a unique way of distributing their seeds.”

He doesn’t get the chance to say more- with a deafening SNAP! The edge of the rock wall above Nyas head explodes into dust with several loud thumps sounding out past their cover, dirt and sand exploding as if struck with artillery. Nya ducks down and covers her head, waiting for the dust to settle before cautiously uncurling.

There’s quite a few new holes in the ground. Birdy, after assuring himself none of his duckling were injured, slings off his bag as he approaches one of the craters, crouching in front of it as she peeks around the corner of their rock savior.

“What the heck was THAT?” Jay demands, clutching his pearls.

The flower that had caused the ruckus is standing straight now, the stems pieces reconstituting themselves into one solid trunk again. Snapping back to its original shape caused the seeds along the inside to be forcefully ejected- spreading the new saplings over a wide chunk of the sand, buried and ready to grow.

Birdy is casually sticking his hand into one of the holes, wiggling through sand until he tugs his arm back out clutching one of the seeds. It’s smooth and dark, black giving way to deep burgundy in the dim light, “As I said before, the flower was dispersing it’s seeds.”

“Kinda dramatic.” Kai comments, frowning at the nearest tree as if it’ll hit him with a seed if he looks away.

“Very dramatic.” Birdy agrees, wrapping the seed in a thin sheet of wax paper and tucking it into his bag. Once he finished his task, he stands back up, “We should keep moving.”

The awkward silent spell hanging over them seems to have been dispelled with the whole run-for-your-life thing, and as they return to their original path the Ninja begin to loosen up.

Jay cranes his neck, trying to get a peek into Birdy bag, “What’d you keep the seed for?”

“It’s not like, a grenade, right?” Lloyd doesn’t look up from his feet, navigating a particularly thick patch of holes.

“No,” His voice is clearly amused by the question, “There is no nefarious reason I have taken this, it is a favor I'm doing for another realm inhabitant.”

Cole says something quiet to himself, so soft Nya doesn’t catch it but Birdy turns his head and answers immediately, “I did not owe a favor, no. Are you asking that because of Maurice’s promise of a favor in return for the potatoes?” At Cole's confirmation, He turns back to face forward, thinking, “In this place personal favors are incredibly valuable, near sacred things- they are not given or used lightly. Maurice promised one to me because I completed an important task he is unable to do himself. I do not have a promised favor to anyone in the realm.”

“Seriously?” Kai arches a brow, “No one’s done anything big enough for you to want to repay?”

Birdy leads them around a large slab of stone, “The people of this realm are not famous for their generosity.” He hums, looking around as if searching for something. He seems to spot it, changing trajectory towards the splayed stump of one of the tree flowers. “We don’t have to go much farther,” He tells them as he takes a decisive left at the split strands.

After another short minute of walking, they turn onto a sharp downward slope that Birdy carefully picks his way down, dark shapes taking the form of smooth striated walls rising around them. He glances back a few times as they walk, and Nya catches his hand twitch in an aborted move to offer it to her when she stumbles on a loose patch of sand, “I have set my camp up at a large enough distance from Maurice that we don’t have to worry about him finding it.”

“You think he’ll come after us?” Cole asks, sure footed and at ease.

“He hasn’t before, but it does not hurt to be cautious.” The sand thins to rock, and Birdy transitions from cautiously walking to truly physically down into the gouge in the earth. The stone twists and turns to form natural steps and ledges that make trapezing down easier, but Nya still has to stifle a weary groan. Jay looks about ready to scream.

And Nya won’t lie, this is freaking her out. After blindly following Maurice and being snapped back to reality by the man's spider-food scheme, Nya isn’t keen on following the masked stranger into a dark pit- but considering what little they knew about this place, there was really no choice. She catches Lloyd's eye and he makes a face that says I don’t like it either, but there’s no other option. With the confidence Birdy displays navigating this place, Nya does feel assured that he knows his way around- He must know where the Mountain of Madness is, right?

Finally, their feet hit flat rock.

Cole whistles, “A slot canyon.” He comments, looking up and catching glimpses of the near-black sky, “This doesn’t go that deep, but the way the walls are formed is so unique.” He runs a hand over the nearest rock, admiring the multicolored surface. His fingers slide over bumpy edges, as if the wind had scalloped the rock instead of buffing it smooth.

Birdy hesitates and then speaks, “From what I understand, there used to be a river here. I’ve mapped this canyon several times over, it starts miles this way,” He points in front of them, “An ancient lake that drained down this pathway. About half a mile from here, and you’ll find the mouth of the cave it drained into. It’s been dry for years.”

“Dry?” Nya can’t help but question, looking up at the rolling black clouds, “That could change soon, it looks like it could start pouring any minute.”

“The clouds are unreliable predictions of rain,” He replies, leading them further into the canyon, “In the years I have been here, it has never rained in the desert- But you are right, that could change soon. There are no guarantees here, you must always prepare for the worst.”

Finally they come upon the lip of a dark opening, a cave eroded into rock years and years ago. Birdy steps up into the darkness without hesitation. Turning around, he holds his hand out to Lloyd, fully intending to help him climb inside.

The ninja stopped a few feet from the entrance, staring at him suspiciously. Birdys outstretched hand closes awkwardly and he nods, “Of course, yes. You don’t need to come inside.” He steps down back into the sand at the bottom of the canyon, sitting down on the lip of the cave and motioning to the rocks around them, “Please, have a seat. I’m sure you have more questions.”

“Finally!” Jay squawks, finding the nearest rock and dropping down onto it. Cole crashes down next to him, both of them slumping against the rock wall behind them. Nya sits as well, wistfully thinking of her fancy lumbar-supporting extra padded desk chair, tucked in her corner of the garage at home. Lloyd finds a similar lip of rock as Birdy to sit in, and Kai takes his place next to him, on the edge of his seat and eyes constantly focused on Birdy as if waiting for him to make any suspicious movement.

“I do have questions,” Lloyd says, right down to business, “This place is… It’s nothing like what we thought. We were only ever taught about the poison bog- er, the wastelands- but there’s the desert too, and you and Maurice…” He runs a hand through his hair, “I mean, I thought this place was uninhabited? Like, only home to mindless monsters.”

Birdy's silent, attentive gaze makes Lloyd feel a bit nervous. Was he revealing too much telling the stranger that they were essentially clueless sitting ducks? But Birdy has no judgement in his tone when he replies, “This is a fully realized realm just like the others, it is home to several unique biomes and creatures- most of it horrifying or poisonous, I will admit. The wastelands and the desert are a small fraction of the realm.” He carefully props his staff up against the wall next to him, letting go and massaging his hands. Nya notes immediately he’s missing the ring and pinky finger on his left hand and tucks that information away, “You are correct on your last point. There are no native societies in this realm, and the people you meet are all displaced and forced here. Where you come from, they call this place the Realm of Madness or the dark Realm. It has another name, lesser known- there’s no direct ninjargon translation, but it loosely means ‘Tomb of the ill hearted.’”

“Tomb of the ill hearted?” Lloyd frowns, “Master Wu never mentioned that.”

Birdy doesn’t respond to that comment, “This place is a last resort and an ultimate punishment in many realms. Reserved for the unstoppable evils and irredeemable villains, the people who are sent here are the unsavory type, often having committed dangerous and large scale crimes in the Realms they came from.” His voice gets strained and his shoulder stoop, the weight of a heavy past settling visibly over his body. He bows his head, “Pain and suffering is all most people find here.”

“What did you do to get sent here?” Nya asks instantly.

The darkness of the night turns his mask into a flat sheet of black, “I answered one of your questions, now you must answer one of mine.” He says instead of replying.

“I knew it.” Kai huffs, balling up his fists, “There's a catch to all this, right?”

Birdy turns his head away, swallowing thickly against Kais venom, “Why are you here?”

“What?”

“You- All of you- do not belong in this place.” He says firmly.

Nya looks to Lloyd, watching him carefully think over his options on where this conversion will go. She deliberates herself- despite her apprehension and worry, Birdy has been… well, helpful. He did lead them to a safe place to rest, and he’s been open and seemingly honest this whole time. That doesn’t mean she trusts him, but his words stick out to her. He doesn't think they belong in the realm of madness. Does that mean they have a chance at convincing him to help them escape? Will being truthful with him help their case? She’s not sure, but he has no obligation to help them, and clamming up now could cost them the only solid and semi-safe lead they have in this place. She wishes Lloyd would look her way so she could see what he’s thinking too.

Lloyd turns to Birdy once more, “We were in a fight and-” He stops with a frown, “Let me back up a bit, um, we’re from Ninjago. We’re actually the ninja, a team of heroes who fight against villainy?” Birdy looks at him blankly so Lloyd railroads on, “We’re the elemental masters-”

Birdy visibly jerks at that, sitting ram-rod straight. He shakes his head and raises a finger to the part of his mask a mouth would be, “No! No- Never say that out loud again.” He says urgently, nearly launching himself from his seat to press the importance of that on him, “This place- that kind of power- Your abilities will paint a target on your back. Do not say that again, please.”

Lloyd had leaned back, startled, but he relaxes a bit as Birdy does, “Okay,” He says, “Okay, I won’t. I’m sorry.”

Birdy nods stiffly, and after a moment Lloyd continues, “We were in a fight with a woman, she’d stolen a magic artifact from a Museum. She opened a portal with it and we ended up here.” He hesitates, but presses on, “... You’re right. We don’t belong here, and every moment we’re trapped our home is in danger.  You helped Maurice and you’ve led us to this camp safely... Can you help us get out of this place?”

Nyas earlier prediction of the sky blacking out was wrong. As the night hits its darkest point, a strange dim green-white glow spreads across the sky, and Birdys mask catches the light beautifully, the black shadow receding.

Before Nya can hold her breath in anticipation for Birdy's choice, he’s nodding, “Yes. Whatever you need, I will help you with. I will ensure you get home safely.”

Oh. Nya blinks. That was… easier than expected.

“You’ll help us?” Kai repeats in disbelief, “Just like that? For nothing in exchange? Why?”

Birdy bows his head and takes a moment to gather his thoughts, “You do not belong here, but I do.” He says carefully. This place is for the worst of the worst, Nya remembers him saying. “I am… trying to make up for my actions.” He leaves it at that.

“Thank you.” Lloyd tells him.

“What can I help you with?” The man asks without acknowledging Lloyd's words, uncomfortable with the appreciation.

Nya speaks up, “We need a guide through this place, to a certain spot-”

“Stop.” Kai interrupts, standing up and putting his hands on his hips, “We don’t know this guy, and we have very sensitive information.”

“Kai,” Cole frowns at him, “He’s offering to help us.”

“Maurice was helping us when he led us into a trap.” He points out sensibly, “I’m not saying we refuse his offer yet, just that we sleep on this, and discuss it in private.”

Lloyd looks torn, glancing worriedly at Birdy and thinking the same thing they all were- would this stranger put his life on hold to wait on them to make their mind?

Birdy stands, rising to face Kai, “I understand your reservations, but I assure you I wish you no harm. That being said, there is no rush to make a decision. Please take your time and decide amongst yourselves, I will retire for the night so you may talk.”

Without hesitation, he takes his staff and steps up into the cave he’d led them to. The darkness swallows him up.

“Goodnight!” Jay calls snarkily at Birdy's retreating figure, jumping when the man comes right back out.

Birdy drops the bundle of logs he’d been carrying onto the rocks between them all, “Goodnight, Jay.” He says, amused, “I’ve brought you firewood- the flame will burn green, but it is nontoxic. I suggest one of you stay up and keep watch. I would offer, but I don’t believe it would be welcome.”

Nya grabs a few smaller stones around her and sets to work on the fire pit behind her, taking them firmly out of the caves line of sight, “Maybe another night.” She jokes tensely.

Birdy steps back into the cave, “Sleep well. I will wake you at first light.” And then he’s gone.

There’s a long pause before Lloyd and Cole scoot forward to help Nya build the fire pit.

“So what is there to discuss?” Nya asks, focusing on the stones in her hand instead of the exhaustion weighing her down, or her brother's presence glaring into the darkness of the cave. “The way I see it, we have no other option than to accept his help.”

“We can’t find our way through this place on our own, even if we had a map.” Cole agrees, “There’s something… wrong with the earth here. When we were walking here it just felt off. I don’t think we could retrace out footsteps if we tried.”

“It’s just too easy.” Voice tight, Kai kneels next to them and picks up a piece of firewood, examining it closely, “Next thing we know this guy has a grudge against Wu for sending him here and he slits our throats in our sleep.”

“We don't even know if he’s from Ninjago,” Jay points out, “What are the chances of him randomly being an old enemy of Wu’s?”

Everyone pins Jay with a blank stare because, well… with Wu’s track record, the chances are pretty high.

“Yeah, don’t answer that.” Jay grumbles, running a hand through his hair. “You’re all right. We can’t trust this guy, but we need him.”

Lloyd picks up one of the sticks and draws a chart in the thin layer of sand on the stone floor, “Pros and cons,” he starts. “Pros: He seems to be an expert navigating this place and if we don’t accept his help, we could be stranded here for who knows how long, leaving Ninjago to whatever villain stole that gauntlet.”

“Cons: He could serial kill us.” Kai supplied, “Or trap us in a pit, or poison us, or sell us for our powers, or-”

“I think we get it.” Cole interrupts him, “It’s just… I don’t get that vibe from him.”

“We can’t risk our safety off of vibes.”

Nya gets Kai’s worries, she really does, “But we can’t just twiddle our thumbs and walk in circles while Ninjago is under attack! The people back there depend on us to keep them safe, and we have no idea what those girls- or whoever they’re working for- has planned.”

“I thought your whole deal was honoring our duties, Kai?” Jay questions in what Nya feels is a jab from a conversation she wasn't privy to, “Our job as ninja is to risk our lives to protect the people of Ninjago.”

“That’s our responsibility.” Lloyd agrees solemnly, “We have to get back to Ninjago while there’s still a Ninjago to protect.”

Kai frowns, placing the final stick into the fire pit and lighting it in the same movement. The flame flickers a radioactive green, “Okay.” He says finally, “Yeah, I’m with you guys now. We have to get home.”

“We’ll be cautious.” Lloyd assures him, “We won’t let our guard down.”

“But we just can’t look this gift horse in the mouth.” patting his back, Nya unties her gi top and folds it into a pillow on the sandy floor, dressed in just her tank top undershirt.

“I’ll take first watch.” Kai volunteers. Cole looks like he’s about to argue- it should be him or Lloyd, since they’d gotten more sleep, but he lets it go with a small sigh.

Lloyd also seems to understand that Kai needed this, “Wake me up in a few hours to swap out.” He says firmly.

The others dress down only slightly, Lloyd using his gi top as a blanket and Cole pulling off his waist wrapping to drape across his eyes like a sleep mask. Nya turns her back to the fire as everyone settles in, staring blankly at the shadows of the canyon around her. She couldn’t help but worry that this was the wrong choice.

"I'm hungry," Cole laments, and it's so surprising that Nya and the other bark out a laugh, chuckling as the night winds down. She's hit with a deep affection for her friends and a swelling in her chest that tells her everything is going to be okay. They were together again. Everything was right.

They're The Ninja! They've gotten out of worse binds than this!

(Not unscathed. Not without tragedy.)

Eventually, she falls asleep.

[cowboythirteen]

Southern Style Sweet Tea

A quick trip to the drug store

The thunderstorm blinked the lights

And we laughed while taking our time

Walking through the aisles

Carefully selecting candy and Arizona tea

Back when they were only 99 cents for a large can

We’d pick a new flavor

Check out

And brave the rain again

How many moments

Like this

Did I forget?

How many moments

Like this

Will I forget?

Every second gone is another you’ll never get back

And you may not even remember the ones you spent

Trying to bribe the sky to stretch each one out

As long as you can

The rain fell

Flooding this moment from my head

But the overcasted Walgreens

Brought it back

It’s funny

Time and it’s tricks

Pillars of the years

Seize beneath the surface

Like the only constant thing

About life is forgetting

Trading in aluminum

For plastic

Even the price of growing up

Is inflating

[usafphantom2]

Future airworthiness directive must land all B-17s in flight conditions

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 04/20/2023 - 20:00 In Military, Museums

Last Saturday (April 15), the Yankee Air Museum announced that it was landing its vintage World War II Boeing B-17G "Yankee Lady" in anticipation of a FAA Airworthiness Guideline (AD), expected within a few weeks.

Online sources, including a detailed article on Aerovintage.com, anticipate that the directive will likely land all B-17s currently flying due to "winch stringer problems" cited by the Yankee Air Museum.

The Michigan-based museum posted on its Facebook page: “Hello, the Yankee Air Museum decided to proactively cease flight operations of the B-17G Flying Fortress ‘Yankee Lady’. As a result, we expect a mandatory Airworthiness Guideline to be issued by the FAA in the coming weeks on the subject. With great caution, we are temporarily closing our B-17 flight operations and waiting for guidance from the FAA on the necessary inspections and repairs that will be necessary. It is expected that the B-17 will not fly during the 2023 flight season. Note that this only affects the B-17."

The announcement added that those who scheduled "Air Adventure" tours on the "Yankee Lady" will receive refunds and ensured that their B-25, C-47 and Bell UH-1 "Huey" helicopters will continue to fly with passengers. A 25-minute tour of the B-17 costs US$ 525 (US$ 425 for museum members), according to the museum's website.

The "Yankee Lady" is one of the few B-17 currently operating in the US. Others include the Commemorative Air Force's "Sentimental Journey" (N9323Z) and the Erickson Aircraft Collection's "Olde Pub" (N3701G). In the United Kingdom there is B-17 "Sally B". According to Wikipedia and other sources, there are currently nine airworthy B-17s worldwide, of the 12,731 manufactured by Boeing, Douglas and Lockheed between 1936 and the end of World War II in 1945.

The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)'s B-17 "Aluminum Overcast" has remained grounded since April 2021 due to problems with its wing stringers, and the next directive is believed to result, at least in part, from what was discovered in efforts to solve these problems.

Source: AVWeb

Tags: B-17FAA - Federal Aviation AdministrationMuseumsWarbirds

Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Dayton Airshow and FIDAE. He has works published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. Uses Canon equipment during his photographic work throughout the world of aviation.

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[learnhowtocreatemusic]

DIY Music Videos: Solving Lighting and Filming Challenges

Creating a music video is a powerful way to visually express your music and connect with your audience. However, if you’re an independent artist, budget constraints can make producing a professional-looking video seem daunting. The good news is that you don’t need expensive gear or a big crew to create a compelling music video. With some creativity and a few practical tips, you can solve common lighting and filming challenges to produce a video that looks polished and professional. Here’s how.

1. **Plan Your Video Concept Carefully**

Before diving into filming, it’s essential to plan your video concept. A well-thought-out plan will help you make the most of your resources and avoid unnecessary expenses.

- **Storyboarding:** Sketch out your ideas in a storyboard. This doesn’t have to be artistically perfect—just a simple outline of scenes and shots will do. Storyboarding helps you visualize the flow of the video and ensures you capture all the necessary footage.

- **Location Scouting:** Look for locations that align with your video’s theme. Public spaces, parks, and even your home can serve as excellent settings. Consider the natural lighting available in these locations, as it can save you time and money on lighting setups.

- **Keep It Simple:** Don’t overcomplicate your concept. A straightforward idea executed well can be far more impactful than an elaborate one that stretches your resources thin.

2. **Use Natural Light to Your Advantage**

Lighting is one of the most critical elements in video production. While professional lighting setups can be expensive, you can achieve great results by harnessing natural light.

- **Golden Hour:** The golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides soft, warm light that is flattering for video. Plan your shoot around these times to make the most of this natural lighting.

- **Cloudy Days:** Overcast days offer diffused, even lighting that eliminates harsh shadows. This is ideal for outdoor shoots, as it provides consistent lighting without the need for reflectors or additional equipment.

- **Window Light:** For indoor shoots, position your subject near a large window to take advantage of natural light. Use sheer curtains to diffuse the light if it’s too harsh.

3. **DIY Lighting Solutions**

If you need additional lighting, there are several budget-friendly options you can create yourself.

- **Reflectors:** A simple reflector can bounce light onto your subject, filling in shadows and creating a more even look. You can make your own reflector using a piece of white foam board or aluminum foil.

- **Household Lamps:** Standard lamps can serve as effective lighting tools. Use lampshades to diffuse the light, or bounce the light off walls or ceilings for a softer effect. Experiment with different bulbs to achieve the color temperature you want.

- **LED Light Panels:** Affordable LED light panels can provide consistent, adjustable light for your shoot. They’re portable, easy to set up, and can be powered by batteries, making them perfect for on-the-go filming.

4. **Stabilize Your Shots**

Shaky footage can make even the best-planned video look amateurish. Stabilizing your shots is essential for creating a professional-looking video.

- **Tripod:** Invest in a good tripod for steady, stable shots. There are many affordable options available that are lightweight and easy to use.

- **DIY Stabilizers:** If you don’t have a tripod, try using a stack of books, a sturdy table, or even a pile of blankets to stabilize your camera.

- **Handheld Techniques:** If you’re shooting handheld, use both hands to hold the camera, keep your elbows close to your body, and move smoothly. You can also use the camera’s in-built stabilization features if available.

5. **Use Your Smartphone Effectively**

Modern smartphones come equipped with powerful cameras that are more than capable of shooting high-quality video.

- **Manual Settings:** Explore your phone’s camera settings and experiment with manual controls like ISO, shutter speed, and focus. This allows you to have more control over the final look of your video.

- **External Lenses:** Consider investing in external lenses designed for smartphones. These lenses can give you a wider field of view, a sharper image, or even macro capabilities, expanding your creative options.

- **Filmic Apps:** Use apps like Filmic Pro to gain more control over your phone’s camera settings. These apps often include features like manual focus, exposure controls, and color grading tools.

6. **Focus on Composition**

Good composition can elevate your video and make it look more professional, even if you’re working with basic equipment.

- **Rule of Thirds:** Divide your frame into thirds, both horizontally and vertically, and place your subject along these lines or at their intersections. This creates a balanced and visually appealing shot.

- **Leading Lines:** Use natural lines in your environment, such as roads, fences, or pathways, to draw the viewer’s eye towards your subject.

- **Depth of Field:** Create depth in your shots by including elements in the foreground, middle ground, and background. This adds a sense of dimension and makes your video more engaging.

7. **Edit with Care**

Editing is where your footage comes together to create the final product. Even if you’re editing on a budget, you can achieve professional results with careful attention to detail.

- **Free Editing Software:** Programs like DaVinci Resolve, HitFilm Express, and iMovie offer powerful editing tools at no cost. These tools provide a range of features for cutting, color grading, and adding effects to your video.

- **Color Grading:** Color grading can significantly enhance the look of your video. Use it to correct any lighting inconsistencies and to create a cohesive visual style.

- **Keep It Simple:** Don’t overdo it with transitions and effects. Simple cuts and subtle transitions are often more effective than flashy effects that can distract from the music and visuals.

8. **Test and Adjust**

Before the actual shoot, it’s a good idea to do a test run. This allows you to troubleshoot any issues and make adjustments before you start filming.

- **Lighting Test:** Set up your lighting and film a short test clip. Review the footage to ensure the lighting is consistent and flattering.

- **Sound Check:** If your video includes live sound or dialogue, do a sound check to ensure clarity and minimize background noise. Consider using an external microphone for better audio quality.

- **Rehearsal:** Run through your scenes or performance to get comfortable with the camera and the space. This will make the actual shoot smoother and more efficient.

Conclusion

Creating a professional-looking music video on a budget is entirely possible with the right approach and a bit of creativity. By planning carefully, making the most of natural light, using DIY lighting solutions, and paying attention to composition and editing, you can overcome common filming challenges and produce a video that truly represents your music. Remember, the key to a great music video is not how much money you spend, but how effectively you use the resources you have. With these tips in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a visually compelling and polished music video, even on a shoestring budget.

[robotlearnstolove]

2024-11-01

Coloured Lights

There was litter all along the side of the highway and, judging from its weathered, sun-bleached condition, most of it had been here for a while. Almost all of it was food packaging — aluminum, styrofoam, clear plastics, papers and foil wrappings. One at a time, Tiffanie picked up each piece with her trash picker before indiscriminately dropping it into a large black bag tied to her belt. It felt wrong to her that she wasn’t sorting the litter for recycling but she didn’t have a choice in the matter.

She’d been tirelessly picking up trash all morning, only stopping to dab the sweat from her brow or to drink water. In the bed of the truck parked a hundred metres or so behind her, there were already six similar bags, packed full and tied down. She now barely noticed the cars and trucks that passed her at a hundred and ten kilometres per hours. At noon, she went back to the truck and ate the plastic tub of macaroni salad she’d bought at the gas station that morning. It was nothing like the macaroni salad her mom had made her as a kid but it was edible and filling and had kept surprisingly cool despite having spent the morning at the foot of the passenger seat. After lunch, she had a nap or, more accurately, she sat still in the driver’s seat with her eyes closed for a half hour.

It was only in the afternoon that she started noticing some of the strange happenings.

She’d been back at work for the better part of an hour when she first saw the coloured lights in the distance. Since lunch, the sky had gone from cloudy to completely overcast but there was nothing strange about that. If anything, she appreciated not having to intermittently work in the heat of the afternoon sun. The lights themselves were still fairly subtle when they caught her eye — just faint flashes of orange, yellow and green, close to the horizon and nowhere near the sun. She stopped and watched them for half a minute. They were kind of pretty but, even though they were strange, they seemed to be far enough away that she could easily ignore them. Deliberately, she pushed them from her mind and got back to work.

The next time they caught her eye, she stopped working altogether. By this time the lights had become much brighter and were appearing higher in the sky. Their colour had changed a little too — less green and more of a bluish purple. However, the biggest change was that she could now hear them.

[thestonecuttersguild]

So yeah, there's Aluminum Overcast. Sitting outside. On the north side of the airport. Oshkosh 2023

[nocternalrandomness]

Aluminum Overcast parked for the night at Deer Valley, AZ

[defcon-leppard]

Different Hero Forge direction because apparently I'm bored of not posting here even though nobody actually sees anything I post and Hero Forge is not art but whatever-

Upgraded my human versions of EAA's warbirds. They double as holoforms for the bot versions that I can't create because I am not and never will be an artist.

The taller one is Aluminum Overcast, their B17. She's been grounded the last couple years getting numerous repairs that were discovered after finding one of her wing spars cracked. The wing spar issue has been an issue in all B17s still considered airworthy. I do have hope she'll be back in the sky sooner rather than later.

The shorter one is Berlin Express, their B25 who's currently out on tour. If she's near your area I highly recommend you at very least take a ground tour.

I know what these warbirds represent. It's not pretty. I don't glorify it. But we have no right to erase what happened. If we don't learn from our past we're doomed to repeat it. Step by step. Maybe some of you want that. I don't know. I'll keep to my little Hero Forge hole and remind myself nobody actually cares about it.

[gse-renewables]

What are the Key Components of Solar Panels?

A conventional components of solar panels, including a layer of silicon cells, a sturdy metal frame, a protective glass enclosure, and a network of interconnected wiring that facilitates the smooth flow of electric current generated by the silicon cells. Silicon, despite being a nonmetallic element, possesses remarkable conductive properties, allowing it to capture and convert sunlight into electrical energy. This remarkable phenomenon is attributed to the “photovoltaic effect,” which serves as the fundamental principle underpinning solar panel technology.

In essence, when sunlight strikes a silicon cell, it triggers the movement of electrons within the cell, setting in motion an electric current. This process enables the solar panel to harness the sun’s radiant energy and transform it into a readily usable form of electricity. Remarkably, this energy generation continues as long as the sun is shining, making solar panels a dependable and sustainable source of power. Furthermore, even on overcast days when sunlight is diffused by cloud cover, solar panels are still capable of generating electricity, thanks to the sun’s persistent ability to penetrate the cloud layers. A few years ago, coal, wood, and biomass were the primary sources of energy, while renewable energy played a secondary role. However, today, renewable energy sources such as solar energy, hydroelectric power, and wind power have replaced traditional sources. Solar energy, in particular, stands out as a cost-free and environmentally friendly energy source harnessed from sunlight. Solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, commonly known as solar panels, play a pivotal role in converting sunlight into electricity during daylight hours. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the solar panel parts and components. In a subsequent piece, we will explore the installation process of solar panels.

Solar Panel Parts And Components

A solar PV module, or solar panel, is a complex assembly comprising nine essential components of solar panels, each of which plays a crucial role. Let’s explore these components one by one:

Solar Cells: At the core of every solar panel lie solar cells, which serve as the fundamental building blocks. Thousands of these cells are meticulously connected to form a solar panel. The assembly process involves soldering, encapsulation, mounting on a sturdy metal frame, and thorough testing. The efficiency of a solar panel is directly linked to the efficiency of its solar cells. Both the cost and performance of these solar cells significantly influence the overall effectiveness of the panel. Notably, solar cell efficiencies have steadily improved over the past decade. Various materials used in their production yield differing efficiencies. Even within the same technology, different companies may achieve varying conversion efficiencies. Two common types of solar cells are monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar cells.

Solar Glass: Another critical solar installation components is the solar glass, which serves as the outermost layer of the solar panel. This glass must possess both strength and reflectivity for optimal panel performance. Its primary function is to shield the solar cells from adverse weather conditions, dust, and dirt. Typically, tempered glass with a thickness ranging from 3mm to 4mm is recommended.

EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate): EVA is a highly transparent plastic layer used to encapsulate the solar cells. It forms a protective, laminated coating atop the cells, holding them together securely. This material must exhibit durability and tolerance to withstand extreme temperature and humidity conditions.

Back Sheet: The back sheet, located at the rear of the panel, serves a dual purpose by providing mechanical protection and electrical insulation. It essentially serves as a protective covering.

Aluminum Frame: The aluminum frame is a critical structural pv panel component that imparts strength to the solar panel. It is advisable to use a frame constructed from a strong yet lightweight solar panel raw material. The frame should be rigid and capable of withstanding harsh environmental conditions, including high winds and external forces. Typically, aluminum frames come in two varieties: silver and anodized black.

Junction Box: Positioned at the rear of the panel, the junction box serves as the central point where cables interconnect with the solar panel.

Interconnectors: Interconnectors facilitate the connection of solar panels to one another. These solar panel parts must exhibit exceptional weather resistance while enabling secure connections.

Silicon Glue: Silicon glue stands as the most commonly employed adhesive within a solar panel. Its robust bonding properties, along with resistance to chemicals, moisture, and adverse weather conditions, make it the preferred choice for affixing components. Notably, silicon is also the predominant semiconductor material.

Inverter: After the solar panels capture DC electricity, the next step is to channel it through a solar inverter. Your home’s grid and appliances operate on alternating current (AC) electricity. Consequently, the inverter plays a crucial role in transforming the DC electricity harvested from your panels into AC electricity, making it usable. There are two prevalent types of inverters: string inverters and microinverters. String inverters are typically affixed to the side of your residence, where they consolidate all the electricity generated by your solar system. On the other hand, microinverters are compact devices attached to the underside of each individual solar panel, allowing for the direct conversion of DC to AC power at the panel level. At GST, we offer both inverter systems. To determine which inverter system best suits your needs, we recommend consulting with your solar adviser for more information.

Conclusion

Investing in a solar panel system constitutes a significant financial commitment. Therefore, it is advisable to prioritize high-quality solar plant components. Most solar panels come with a 25-year warranty, underscoring the importance of assessing the quality and understanding the function of each constituent part. Prospective buyers should equip themselves with knowledge about the various solar panel parts and components involved in solar panel fabrication, their roles, and overall functionality to make informed decisions and avoid substandard components.

[zubermemon]

Mastering Product Photography on a Budget: A Comprehensive Guide by Zuber Memon

Product photography is an essential element for any business, and Zuber Memon is no exception. High-quality product images can help increase sales, enhance brand credibility, and create a lasting impression on potential customers. However, for small businesses or startups like Zuber Memon, investing in expensive photography equipment and professional photographers may not be feasible. That's where budget-friendly product photography comes into play.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore cost-effective strategies and tips to help Zuber Memon excel in product photography without breaking the bank. From equipment choices to lighting setups and post-processing techniques, we've got you covered.

Choosing the Right Equipment

The first step in budget product photography is selecting the right equipment. While high-end cameras and lenses are ideal, there are alternatives that can yield impressive results without the hefty price tag. Consider the following:

a. Smartphone: Modern smartphones boast advanced camera capabilities, making them suitable for product photography. Ensure you have a phone with a high-resolution camera and adjustable settings.

b. Digital Camera: If you prefer a dedicated camera, opt for an entry-level DSLR or mirrorless camera. Look for second-hand or refurbished options to save money.

c. Tripod: Invest in a sturdy tripod to eliminate camera shake and ensure stability during shots.

Mastering Lighting

Lighting is crucial in product photography. Here's how to create professional-looking images on a budget:

a. Natural Light: Utilize natural light by shooting near a window. Soft, diffused light on overcast days works best. Use white curtains or diffusers to further soften harsh sunlight.

b. DIY Lightbox: Create a DIY lightbox using inexpensive materials like white poster board and tissue paper. Place your product inside for soft, even lighting.

c. Reflectors: Reflectors bounce light onto your subject, reducing shadows. Use household items like white foam boards or aluminum foil-covered cardboard as reflectors.

Styling Your Products

Product styling plays a pivotal role in showcasing your merchandise effectively:

a. Background: Use a plain, clutter-free background. White or light-colored backdrops work well for most products. Consider purchasing affordable backdrop options or create your own using large sheets of paper.

b. Props: Add props to enhance the product's story or demonstrate its use. Be cautious not to overwhelm the product itself.

c. Consistency: Maintain consistency in your product placement and styling across all images for a polished look.

Camera Settings and Composition

Understanding your camera settings and composition techniques can significantly improve your product photos:

a. Aperture: Use a wide aperture (low f-stop) for a blurred background (bokeh) that isolates the product.

b. ISO: Keep the ISO as low as possible to reduce noise in the image.

c. Composition: Experiment with angles, rule of thirds, and the Golden Ratio to create visually appealing shots.

Shooting Techniques

Practice different shooting techniques, such as:

a. Bracketing: Take multiple shots at different exposure levels and merge them in post-processing for optimal lighting.

b. Focus Stacking: Combine multiple images with different focus points to achieve full product clarity.

Editing and Post-Processing

Post-processing can elevate your product images to the next level:

a. Free Software: Utilize free or budget-friendly editing software like GIMP, Pixlr, or Lightroom's mobile app.

b. Retouching: Remove imperfections, adjust exposure, and enhance colors as needed.

c. Consistency: Maintain a consistent editing style for a cohesive product catalog.

Workflow and Organization

Establish an efficient workflow for capturing, editing, and organizing your product photos. Consistency in file naming and folder structure will save you time and frustration.

Practice and Patience

Finally, the key to mastering product photography on a budget is practice. Continuously refine your skills and learn from your mistakes. Be patient with yourself, as excellence takes time to achieve.

Conclusion

Incorporating these budget-friendly product photography techniques will allow Zuber Memon to create compelling images that attract customers and boost sales. With the right equipment, lighting, styling, and post-processing, stunning product photos are within reach without breaking the bank. Start capturing your merchandise in its best light today!