747s

"Can you light a 747 with an extension cord?"

For an AeroLineas Argentinas ad, I needed to light the interior of a 747 at JFK. I was first told I could run my strobes off the main generators while the jet was at the gate. That morning, someone from security at JFK called me to clarify my intentions and advised me that the plane's electrical system ran on a different cycle but I could still use an extension cord while we shot in the First Class cabin.

Our plans changed after we arrived and I had to use a jet that was parked out on the tarmac and supply my own power. My generator had to remain on the ground next to my car while I ran extension cords up through the door that had to remain closed. It was a hot, humid day with no air conditioning while we lit the jet from the outside and with strobes taped and hidden within the interior cabin. The models were so hot in their business suits that we hid ice bags in their clothes. There was also a melting ice sculpture with fresh fruit that we also had to photograph while everyone looked like they were having a great time.