Photographer's Night Run

The Photographer’s Night Run is an add-on experience and does not include admission to the Sky High Aerospace Expo. You must purchase a general admission ticket separately to attend the event. Add-On Price: $100 per photographer Limited slots available. Registration required in advance.

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Get ready for the Photographer's Night Run! | "Engines hot. Ramps wet. Shutters clicking."

Step onto the ramp after dark for an unforgettable night of engines, exhaust, and extraordinary imagery. The Photographer’s Night Run is your exclusive opportunity to capture stunning visuals of vintage warbirds and high-powered machines in a dramatic, controlled setting. This year’s lineup features the legendary P-51 Mustang, the rugged FM-2 Wildcat, and the crowd-thrilling Hotstreak II Jet Truck — all brought to life under custom lighting, misted pavement, and active engine runs. Whether you're after motion blur, silhouette shots, or the perfect light trail, this is the shoot you’ve been waiting for.

The 2025 Night Run Lineup

FM-2 Wildcat

Rugged, compact, and full of character, the Wildcat offers a gritty, close-quarters warbird aesthetic with vintage Navy vibes under the lights.

Hot Streak II Jet Truck

A flame-spitting, ground-pounding spectacle on wheels — this jet-powered beast lights up the ramp with heat, noise, and pure visual chaos.

P-51 Mustang "Gunfighter"

The iconic long-range fighter of WWII, the Mustang brings sleek lines, raw power, and a propeller blur that photographers dream about.

📋 Photographer’s Night Run – Rules & Guidelines

🎯 Pre-registration is required

Only credentialed and registered photographers will be permitted on the ramp during the Night Run. No walk-ups or unapproved guests.

🦺 Safety vests must be worn

High-visibility vests are required at all times while on the ramp during the event.

🚫 No flash photography

To protect the safety of crews and fellow photographers, flash use is strictly prohibited during the Night Run.

📷 Tripods and gear must be kept tidy

Tripods, bags, and other equipment must be kept out of active pathways and must not obstruct other photographers.

🛑 Do not cross marked safety boundaries

Certain areas around aircraft will be clearly marked. Never step beyond ropes, cones, or barriers — even for a better shot.

📵 Follow crew instructions at all times

Ground personnel and safety staff are there to manage movement and engine operations. All instructions must be followed without hesitation.

👥 No assistants or guests unless pre-approved

Each registered photographer is allowed one assistant only if cleared in advance.

⏱️ Be respectful of timed setups

Aircraft may only be staged in specific lighting/positions for short periods. Be efficient and courteous so everyone has time to shoot.

🌧️ Event subject to weather conditions

Rain or unsafe conditions may delay or cancel engine runs or certain lighting elements.

📸 Commercial use of photos requires approval

Personal and portfolio use is encouraged. For commercial sales, publication, or licensing, please contact us for proper clearance.

Behind the Night Run | What is it?

Once the sun sets and the crowds clear out, the real magic begins. The Photographer’s Night Run transforms the ramp into a cinematic environment where machines roar, light reflects off misted pavement, and every frame tells a story.

Aircraft will be staged with special lighting and water to create dramatic effects. Engines will run for added realism, giving you the rare chance to capture prop blur, afterburner glow, heat distortion, and motion blur — all under controlled conditions. Our team coordinates each phase to maximize your shooting opportunities while ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.

💡 Themed ramp lighting

💦 Water mist for dramatic reflections

🔊 Engine runs for authentic action

🚫 Limited access — photographers only

⏱️ Timed photo ops with repositioning of aircraft

Credit to Lerro Photography

Gear Up for the Night Run | Tips for the Best Shots!

Whether you’re a veteran aviation photographer or stepping onto the ramp for the first time, these tips will help you make the most of your time behind the lens.

📷 Bring a sturdy tripod – For long exposures and low-light shots

🔦 Use a headlamp or flashlight – For gear changes in the dark (just keep it off during runs)

🧰 Wide and fast lenses are your friends – Think f/2.8 or wider

💨 Shoot during engine runs – Capture heat blur, prop motion, and exhaust flames

🎯 Plan your angles ahead of time – Aircraft will only be positioned briefly in each setup

🧍 Stay clear, stay safe – Respect the safety lines and listen to crew direction

📸 Shoot RAW – You’ll want that flexibility in post

✨ First time shooting something like this?

No problem. We’ll have crew on site to guide you, and fellow photographers are usually more than willing to share advice and settings.