A photographer's dream come true! Michael Meighan's perseverance paid off, resulting in a stunning recreation of a classic ET scene. This achievement, two years in the making, showcases the power of dedication and a bit of celestial alignment.
The Quest for the Perfect Shot
Meighan and his friend, Nathan Edwards, embarked on a mission to recreate the iconic moment from the 1982 film ET, where Elliott's BMX, carrying ET in its basket, soars past the Moon. They faced numerous challenges, from finding the right location to dealing with unpredictable weather and Moon positioning.
But last weekend's full Moon brought their vision to life. Edwards, a plasterer, pedaled his bike uphill on Eglwysilan Mountain, Rhondda Cynon Taf, while Meighan, positioned 1.4 miles away in Treforest, Pontypridd, captured the moment through his camera lens. The pair coordinated via phone, attracting curious onlookers who wondered about the man with the giant camera lens near their homes.
"They came out, wondering what was happening, seeing a man with a huge camera lens next to their house," Meighan, 39, from Cardiff, recalled.
Edwards, 33, from Cwmbran, Torfaen, had prepared a plastic wash bowl with a teddy bear wrapped in a blanket, creating the illusion of ET riding his bike. He stood and waited, ready for Meighan to capture the shot they had planned since 2024.
The Challenges and Triumph
Meighan and Edwards scouted various locations and attempted the scene multiple times, using a phone app to pinpoint their positions relative to the Moon. However, with only 12 full Moons in a typical year, opportunities were limited. Last Saturday's perfect weather conditions and Moon alignment finally made their dream a reality.
"We were over the Moon (pun intended!) to finally get this one," Meighan said. "The planning was the hardest part, but once it was planned, executing it was simple."
The friends shared a heartfelt embrace and celebrated their achievement in a nearby pub.
Meighan praised Edwards' commitment, recalling how the idea first emerged after another full Moon photoshoot two years ago. "He's an incredible person and friend. Without him, this wouldn't have been possible. His enthusiasm and dedication to grab the bike and drive to a random location for this image are truly remarkable."
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the final image; it's the journey, the friendship, and the dedication that make these artistic endeavors so special.
What do you think? Is this a masterpiece or just a fun hobby? Share your thoughts in the comments!
