A photographer's dream come true! Michael Meighan's perseverance paid off as he successfully recreated a beloved scene from the classic movie ET. This achievement, two years in the making, is a testament to his dedication and creativity.
The Quest for the Perfect Shot
Meighan and his friend Nathan Edwards embarked on a challenging journey to capture the iconic moment when Elliott's BMX, carrying ET in its basket, soars past the Moon. They faced numerous obstacles, from finding the right location to aligning the Moon's position with their desired shot. But their determination never wavered.
A Perfect Alignment of the Stars (and the Moon)
The breakthrough finally came during the first full Moon of the year. Edwards, a plasterer by trade, pushed his bike uphill to the perfect spot on Eglwysilan Mountain, Rhondda Cynon Taf, while Meighan, a care support worker, watched through his camera lens from a residential street in Treforest, Pontypridd. The pair coordinated their efforts via phone, attracting curious onlookers who wondered about the strange activity.
"They came out, wondering what was happening, when they saw a man with a huge camera lens next to their house," Meighan recalled with a smile. He showed the curious householders the scene through his camera, capturing the moment when Edwards, "huffing and puffing," got into position after a five-minute uphill bike ride.
The Creative Touch
Edwards' ingenuity was on full display as he fastened a plastic wash bowl, complete with a teddy bear wrapped in a blanket, to his bike. This clever setup made it look like ET was riding along with him. He then patiently waited for Meighan to capture the shot they had been planning since 2024.
"We've attempted to get this shot a few times," Meighan explained. "The weather has been a challenge, and getting the alignment right with the Moon's position has been tricky. But we finally nailed it!"
A Friendship Built on Passion
Meighan praised his friend's commitment, noting that their collaboration began after a full Moon photoshoot two years ago. "He's an incredible person and a fantastic friend. Without his enthusiasm and dedication, this would not have been possible. The way he jumped at the chance to grab his bike and drive to a random location just for this image is truly inspiring."
The two friends shared a heartfelt embrace and celebrated their achievement in a nearby pub. Their story serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that require the most patience and creativity.
And this is the part most people miss... the journey behind the photo. What do you think? Is it worth the effort to pursue your creative passions, no matter how challenging they may seem? Share your thoughts in the comments!
