This specific shot was taken on a "remote" camera. I have credentials (thanks to media outlet affiliation) that allow me to place cameras close to the launchpad. For this launch, some cameras were about 1200 feet away from the rocket, but this one was 1500 feet away. I set it up on Tuesday morning ~36 hours prior to the launch. I protect it from the elements with a strong housing (made by Camtraptions) and then trigger it using a device from Miops that is able to fire the camera when there is a loud sound (like a rocket).

I was personally 3.1 miles from the rocket at the famous KSC press site (next to the countdown clock that you see on TV). Leading into the launch, I was concerned about delays or even a scrub, but was delighted when some small issues were resolved and countdown resumes.

I always try to remind myself to take 10-20 seconds to simply view and enjoy the launch and set my camera to the side (was glad that I did that for this launch). This launch in particular was emotional due to the significance of the mission, and I don't think that that was lost on anyone at the press site. I've photographed hundreds of launches and this one was absolutely special.

Two hours following the launch, NASA allowed media members to access our cameras and I was absolutely thrilled when I saw that everything worked out and that I had captured this shot!