Photograph the Blue Angels - Round Two

The Blue Angels are at their winter training home in El Centro!

Join us for one of two opportunities to photograph the Blue Angels from outside the base where the famous hay bales used to be. From this location you are able to get shots of the two solos taking off just yards in front of you as the flight of four take off directly at you. The entire performance is directly overhead.

Three Important Notes: 1. There are no facilities at the shooting location. 2. You will need ear protection - it's not optional!! 3. The schedule is subject to change right up until the last minute.

You will want long lenses for this shoot, anything 200mm to 400mm, will be great. If you want to carry two cameras, put a mid-range lens on the 2nd one for "fill the frame" shots of the planes as they come right overhead.

We will meet at 7:30 at the location where the Hay Bales used to be and get set up. The Blue Angels typically begin at 8 a.m. and fly for 45 minutes. We'll do our group photo when they finish the morning practice, so be sure to look for our group before heading out! I'll post a message with my location once I arrive and get parked.

There is a possibility that "Fat Albert" will be practicing before the Blue Angels, so there may be photo opportunities before 8:00.

Please allow enough time to travel to El Centro and get to the meeting location on time. The practice typically lasts about 45 minutes, so if you're late you may miss it! There is sometimes a second practice scheduled for early afternoon, but nothing is guaranteed. As a group, we will not be staying for the (potential) afternoon practice, but you can stay if you like.

The meeting place will be at the shooting location (former Hay Bales spot). Coordinates are 32°48'55.1"N 115°39'17.6"W. Google Map link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XaBkYehF9rtaAbP16

Here are the directions to the hay bales from the freeway:

• From the 8, use Exit 107 for Drew Road, turn left (North) on Drew Road.
• At the four-way stop (about 1.2 miles), turn right on Evan Hewes Highway and go 2.2 miles then turn left on Low Road (it's tiny, don't miss it!).
• Drive until the pavement ends, then drive some more (1.3 miles total). The military base and flight line will be on your left, on the other side of the fence. Choose your favorite spot and park.

(Please drive slowly in the dirt to keep the dust down, as a courtesy to others).

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