Airports & Runways
May 14th, 2008I love the temporary nature of airports. Every time I am in an airport I am drawn to empty space, the ignored places that only get used when they are needed. Unused gates. The long way to the terminal. The odd corners.
As I wait in the negative space, I am usually aware of the fact that people are in such a hurry in airports, and we have little to no control as to when we leave or arrive.
I sit in my chair and watch others rush to get in line at the gate when the flight attendant calls for rows 40-45, and it’s interesting to see so many individuals get upset about this or that, press in line against the next person so they can edge out those behind them to beat them onto the plane.
To get their stuff in the overhead bin first? To claim their reserved seat?
I find that I become aware of more when I am around less, and this realization is strongest at airports and on runways. I get the same feeling when I look out the window of the plane over the endless terrain and sky.
I strung some short clips together yesterday during my travels from Seattle to London to Edinburgh. Maybe this will give you a glimpse into what I am trying to convey.
I love the notice of small and ordinary places and events.
And watching the footage of the plane flying in that context was good. Very good. I have been afraid of flying since last summer, and I don’t want to be.
Diggin’ your video footage mate. I linked it on my site. This one was a good one. Hope London and Scotland are treating you right.
i liken the impatient nature of people at airports and wanting to get on their seat first to the nature of people in traffic and how they will at times drive like crazy to get in front of another driver just in time to slow down for the traffic signal 50 yards ahead..
[...] or spiderman backpacks. Here’s a fun little post/video if you’re looking for some airport loving. But, most of all, I love the airport pick-up. Classic and perfect. Especially when someone [...]
I too find airports fascinating, sometimes haunting when they’re empty or when you find yourself in an old and almost unused terminal. Great video and great choice of using “Samskeyti” by Sigur Rós.
I like this. I hope you have a great time in Edinburgh.
I think that was great. Very good choice on the song.
I dislike using excessive metaphors to get my point across, so pardon this, but to me at least, a lot of what you said is so applicable to life and this journey and our story. We have no control over when we get here or when we leave. Why try to beat others or cut in line when our seat in eternity is reserved anyway? Why rush through things instead of walking slower and taking it all in (unless you are like me and are good at being late or missing flights)?
Good stuff, thanks for that.
I love airports and nearly everything that goes with them. My favorite section of the video was the clouds racing past out the window of the terminal. It made me miss the UK! The music of SR can make almost any footage emotive - nice one.
i spend a good majority of my time in airports for work–
and this very clearly captured the things that i myself
love to spend time watching and observing.
beautiful.
also, way to have your electronic devices on after the flight crew has told you to turn them off, haha.
although for the sake of art,
i suppose exceptions can be made.
I get the same feeling…and I have consequently realized my love-hate relationship with traveling. Mostly love, though, if I am able to tune out the impatient and/or socially awkward folks around me…or better yet, engage them. Hm. Perhaps I should try for the latter more often.
Loving these clips, as well. Thanks for sharing!
Hey Josh, what kind of video camera(specifically) were you using for this video? The footage is nice and clear. Love your blog!
Love you photo’s of Edinburgh. I totally believe Edinburgh is the best city ever! Have fun at Jo’s wedding.
What is the piano music use in your vimeo. It is fantastic. Really enjoyed all the pictures too.
Ohh! I recognized Heathrow! Have fun in Scotland with those accents (I lived in England for 3 years. We had a rough time “translating” the thick Scottish accents. That bus tour was a trip!)
ha ha, my college roommate used to go to the aiport with her boyfriend to go people watching as a source of entertainment. i as well am always fascinated by what heightened anxiety of the uncontrollable and unknown can create in people at an airport. this video reminded me a bit of the terminal with tom hanks and how it brought to light some interesting airport phenomenons.
impressed.