Joe Cantwell
April 30th, 2024
From Air-Cooled to Water-Cooled
Behind the camera at Air & Water
I had the incredible opportunity to attend and photograph the Air - Water event in Costa Mesa, California. Known for celebrating two of the most iconic automotive worlds—air-cooled and water-cooled vehicles—the event was a visual feast that brought enthusiasts together for a shared passion for cars, creativity, and community.
The moment I arrived, I could feel the buzz in the air. Costa Mesa’s laid-back coastal vibe provided the perfect backdrop for a car show that marries classic and modern styles. The show was packed with vibrant personalities and stunning builds, each one telling its own unique story.
The blend of air-cooled classics—timeless icons like old-school VW Beetles and Porsches—parked alongside high-performance water-cooled machines created a dynamic visual contrast. It wasn’t just a show of cars; it was a meeting point of generations, all united by craftsmanship and passion for automotive excellence.
From a photographer’s perspective, Air - Water was an absolute goldmine. The lighting was perfect, with the California sun casting dramatic shadows and highlighting the curves of every vehicle. I found myself constantly drawn to the reflections of polished paint, gleaming chrome, and custom details. The juxtaposition of vintage patina on some air-cooled classics next to the sleek finishes of modern water-cooled models was something I couldn’t resist capturing.
I focused on telling the story of the cars through my lens, highlighting the artistry behind each build. If it was the intricate engine bay of a meticulously restored VW bus or the aggressive stance of a water-cooled Porsche, every car had its own identity, and I wanted my shots to bring those to life.
What stood out to me even more than the cars were the people behind them. Enthusiasts, builders, and collectors, all eager to talk about their passion projects. Everyone had a story, whether it was about a painstaking restoration or a custom build crafted from scratch. I took the chance to chat with a few owners, getting insights into their inspirations and challenges.
Meeting other photographers was another highlight of the day. It’s always a rewarding experience to exchange tips, techniques, and perspectives with others in the field. The collaborative energy fueled my creativity, inspiring me to take risks and try new compositions.
As much as the day was a visual dream, it wasn’t without its challenges. The sheer number of people attending made it difficult to get clean, uninterrupted shots of the cars at times. Patience became my best friend, and I had to time my shots carefully to avoid distractions. Also, balancing wide shots that captured the full scope of the event with tight, detailed shots to showcase individual elements of the cars required quick thinking. It was a constant dance between showcasing the whole atmosphere and zooming in on the intricate craftsmanship that each car offered.
Photographing Air - Water in Costa Mesa was an unforgettable experience. The blend of air-cooled and water-cooled machines, the community of passionate enthusiasts, and the California sunshine all contributed to a perfect day of automotive photography. This event wasn’t just a car show—it was a celebration of creativity, dedication, and the timeless appeal of car culture.
I’m already looking forward to the next Air - Water, but for now, I’ve got plenty of photos and stories to sift through, each one capturing the unique spirit of the event. Be sure to check out my gallery of my event coverage!
