Orlando Photographer Wins Top Prize for SpaceX Moon Shot
Pascal Fouquet, an Orlando-based photographer, recently won first place in the United States for the 2024 Sony World Photography Awards with his stunning image of a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket carrying the X-37B spaceplane into orbit silhouetted by the moon. Fouquet is known for incorporating Orlando landmarks into his rocket launch photos, creating unique compositions. His winning photo showcases the rocket against a full moon, with the boosters blazing with over 5 million pounds of thrust.
A Unique Approach to Rocket Launch Photography
While many photographers in Central Florida capture rocket launches, Pascal Fouquet takes a different approach by incorporating local landmarks into his compositions. He has captured rockets launching out of Volcano Bay, Plaza Live, downtown Orlando, and even above the Eatonville sign. For the award-winning photo, Fouquet captured the SpaceX Falcon Heavy and X-37B spaceplane rocket silhouetted against a full moon.
Fouquet's compositions juxtapose the foreground and background, resulting in visually striking images that showcase the power and beauty of rocket launches. His photos stand out for their unique perspective and ability to capture the essence of Central Florida.
The Winning Shot and Recognition
On December 28, 2023, Pascal Fouquet took the winning shot from Titusville, approximately 14 miles away from the launchpad. The photo, which captured the rocket against the moon, impressed the judges of the 2024 Sony World Photography Awards. This prestigious competition received over 395,000 images from more than 220 countries and territories.
As the United States national award winner, Fouquet will receive Sony digital imaging equipment and be featured in a book and exhibition showcasing the winning images. The exhibition will be held in London during the upcoming spring.
A Skyward Passion
Pascal Fouquet has always had a fascination with gazing upward at objects in the sky. In addition to rocket launches, he enjoys plane watching and bird watching. He believes that capturing anything in the sky is his specialty. As an Orlando-based photographer, he has found success in his hobby and has received recognition from the Central Florida arts community.
Fouquet's work has been exhibited in various local galleries, including the College Park Gallery, Gallery MCO at Orlando International Airport, and the City of Orlando's Black History Month exhibition. His photography has gained international attention, expanding his reach and showcasing his talent on a global scale.
The Photographer's Tools and Approach
To capture his stunning rocket launch photos, Pascal Fouquet relies on his trusted Nikon D850 camera and a Nikkor 200-500mm lens. He purchased these tools from Colonial Photo & Hobby, a renowned photography equipment store. Along with having the right equipment, Fouquet attributes his success to dedication, hard work, and the element of luck.
Being at the right place at the right time is crucial for capturing award-winning shots. Fouquet frequents Colonel Joe Kittinger Park, situated on the western side of Lake Underhill, for his photography outings. From this unique vantage point, he can observe planes, rockets, and other celestial objects in action.
