This was taken Dec 2012, JPEG, and before I knew anything about processing. I had been at my new job at the shipyard for about 10 months and had never seen a launch before. If you're not familiar with the process, basically, the hull and outer frame are built in a hangar, then a house mover comes and moves the vessel to the water's edge. A structure is built that will allow the vessel to slide off into the water once the appropriate welds are cut. It's a major big deal when launch time comes, and work is done around the clock in the days leading up to a launch. All other work stops and the focus turns completely to the one vessel. Once the water level and conditions are exactly to the owner's standards, the welders fire up their torches, and everyone stands back and holds their breath, praying it will float! It's boat tossing at its finest. I stood there with my new camera and my cell phone, so got pics and video at the same time. It was seriously exhilarating, and over in just a few seconds. The owner of our company asked for copies of my pics when it was over, and this pic was chosen to go on the commemorative t-shirt that is given to all employees that are in attendance at each launch.
Sorry to be so absent these days. The wedding is this Saturday, and things are so busy leading up to it! The good news is that a REAL photographer has been hired to take pics, so I can relax and enjoy the experience as the mom of the groom!