Day in My Life as an Air Force Photographer

[@SamEckholm]

I hope you guys enjoyed this one! As I always say, there are some pretty incredible career fields available in the Air Force. If you had your pick of any of them, which would you choose?

[@tanks6868]

Are there more women or men in the American army? 🇺🇲sorry for the question🖐

[@SamEckholm]

@@tanks6868 Statistically speaking, there are more men, but the number of women has grown substantially! In 1973, there were about 42,000 women serving in the Army, and now there are upwards of 160,000+. Awesome stuff!

[@raysaintchrist8782]

Hey Sam, Big fan😊....Do they teach you how to fly an F25 when you are in the air national guard?

[@spiralplayz5868]

Pilot (B-52)

[@mllrd.768]

do you think it is worth it to be a fighter pilot? Like all the years of school and training? (I’m considering doing USAFA) thanks for the help

[@cxptain3vil193]

I swear you have the coolest job ever and honestly, I was thinking about pursuing this career. You’re a good role model, keep it up 🙌📸

[@nathanleaman4073]

Same bro! Am still sm

[@sharkusify]

What is your gear specifically. I enjoy air shows .My longest lens is the Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8 D.

[@erik2494]

pretty sure flying a jet is cooler than taking photos.

[@SZAVIATIONa319]

@@erik2494not everyone can fly a jet so why not be an airforce photographer

[@jamtrack7867]

Finally you did it! Photography is not what I expect from the Air Force, but I guess there is a job for everything.

[@SamEckholm]

Literally everything 😁

[@hail2287]

@@SamEckholm I wanna be a pilot but have never flew a plane, what happens if a start pilot training with the Air Force but end up hating it. Can I drop?? Or is that seen as bad?

[@benjamin-rn5zn]

@@hail2287 there is a minimum period of service that you must do before you can leave the air force

[@thegreyladm8547]

@@hail2287 I suggest you take flight lessons and try to get your pilots license before you join. That way you get a feel for flying and when you do join you’ll already have a bit more experience and competitiveness. Though you will have to complete the same training whether you have a license or not

[@karenabeyasekere1724]

You do realise that nobody would know what was going on, or know what the Air Force does (for all parts of it, not just planes/pilots) if it wasn't for public affairs photographers... Everyone just takes seeing photos and video for granted, so yes, it is actually a worthwhile job

[@joelfeuer619]

Photographers are important for investigative purposes, if there is a mechanical difficulty or an accident, you need someone on scene to record reasonable evidence. Also relevant for ceremonies, parades, promotions, very useful to have someone who can show higher management what is going on. I'm not in photography or military industry, but just my experiences, people everywhere get very happy and eager to get a free photograph of themselves, and to be able to relate it to your company or your work, makes it even more meaningful.

[@jacobdenning9759]

That Shot of the Thunderbirds with the F-35 Pulling Up after take off was incredible 🔥 Great Job!

[@terrydouglas5008]

The military had almost every job you can find in civilian life. Including radio/tv announcers, producers, engineers.

[@TyeBelcher]

Anyone reading this comment and wanting to look into it. Look for the MOS 25R, 25V and 46S

[@maxbass9812]

@@TyeBelcher currently a 46S , not worth it lol

[@siyanflores]

@@maxbass9812 why

[@samanthabeaty4578]

Former USAF 3V0x2 (still photographer) here! When I was in Photographers were still under Comm and not PA. I was stationed at Langley when the F-22s first rolled out and it was so awesome getting to see them and photograph them! I think out of all of the things I shot the most gratifying stuff was the forensics, and our hurricane rideout photography team helped the base get millions of dollars of recovery money from congress whenever a hurricane wreaked havoc on our base. Love our AFSC!

[@dprovisuals1890]

Dropping the lens next to the camera at 7:04 and hearing the lens hit the the camera was heart breaking. Irrespective you have an amazing job thanks for sharing.

[@marcelvanlierop]

Same here!

[@danielw1968AG]

I've been a pro photographer for over 35 years and yes I cringed at that also!

[@praetorxian]

I cringed as well.

[@NHX610]

I had to laugh - my first thought was well here's a guy with government issued gear! ..But I love this channel, sir. Well done!

[@robrobbirds3282]

I was a 3VOX3 and then 35P ('94-'02). It was a great job with a lot of cool experiences. I'm currently a STEM teacher. I would like to thank you for your videos I use to bring the modern Air Force experience to my students that are interested. Great work.

[@clintgillespie8579]

"You a photographer?" "No, I'm a combat correspondent" "Oh, you seen any combat?"

[@itsmejongee]

LOL! We had air force combat photo come on a patrol one time to take OTW pics of Iraq, and I had to reassure the dude over and over as we were rolling out of the gate that we would not let him get shot. I could not believe how scared he was.

[@watchjaredwork1487]

😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@evilload]

Me: Rolling pallets of Mk 82 bombs onto aircraft while combat camera is taking photos Right Brain: Lets pretend the bombs are cooking off and run away screaming... Left Brain: That might cause some undo mental stress to all the parties involved... Me: Fine. Stupid Left Brain...

[@anaxco447]

I have seen a little on Tv.

[@kokomel23]

I just retired 3 years ago as an Air Force photographer and I have alway said, I literally have the coolest job in the Air Force! I’ve seen and done things people would only dream about! Awesome work Lt!!!

[@BL4NK43V3R]

Would you say that being an AF Photographer is a difficult position to obtain? I heard that the position and ones surrounding it are kind of a difficult position to get into. I'm asking because I love to do photography and I'm trying to get good enough with my Sony camera's to be able to try to get this kind of job in the airforce!

[@kokomel23]

@@BL4NK43V3R when I joined I came in “open general” and they gave me photography. You’d have to ask your recruiter. But also the career field is actually public affairs so you wouldn’t just be a photographer, you’d also be a writer. I’m not sure if they’ve combined broadcasting with the career field as well. The job that the Lt is doing is a special duty assignment. You wouldn’t be doing that type of job unless you applied for it once you’re in. Finally, the AF uses Nikon camera gear (unless they’ve changed within the last 3 years that I’ve been out). I don’t think you need a portfolio and they’ll teach you what you need to know so talk to your recruiter and go for it!

[@BL4NK43V3R]

@@kokomel23 sorry for the late reply, but I'm planning to talk to a recruiter later this week, and it kinda bums me out to know that it's mainly nikon as a Sony cultist but I'll find out more from the recruiter, thanks!

[@kokomel23]

@@BL4NK43V3R you know what’s cool about our career field... it’s so small, anyone can make major changes. So if you can tell your leadership why Sony is better and more cost effective than Nikon, it’s possible that you can get your shop or even the career field to switch to Sony. I’ve oversimplified it here, but anything is possible. Most major changes are made by the airmen! I hope the recruiter tells you good things and you join! I really miss the Air Force!

[@BL4NK43V3R]

@@kokomel23 definitely a better line, not very cost effective compared to Nikon; but to counteract cost Sony has a much larger quality line of both cinema and photography cameras with some great lens combos from companies like Sigma

[@stevealaskaman5680]

Sam, I was a 23152 as well, AF Vet, 1975 thru 1980. Served at EAFB when the F-16 and A-10 cold weather tested as new aircraft. My 6years was the best experience ever....looks like you’re doing well, only the best of best get selected to serve on these teams.

[@vinuezaer]

I signed up for that in '86. They made me a nurse. Im still a nurse. Take photos with my cell phone. It was a huge fork in my life.

[@guyphoto9437]

You definitely got forked.

[@jtmnavy]

I didn’t know the chair force needed someone to take Pictures of chairs 🪑 all day 😁

[@ej9925]

oh word, jt is here?

[@Quothos]

Flying supersonic chairs

[@kokomel23]

Hater!! Lol

[@Quothos]

@@tastycows1 In case you couldn’t tell, it’s a joke

[@SpaceRanger187]

talk shit til..wahhhh were pinned down..come save us again

[@BecomeAPrime]

I got to Photograph the F-22 Demo Team back in 2019 and it was one of the coolest things I ever got to witness.

[@cyabits1]

meanwhile a army photographer trying to dodge bullet down range

[@TyeBelcher]

lmao, 55th?

[@MisterBunbao]

Sniper vs Sniper. Sounds fair to me.

[@Trystero_]

Mean while a marine photographer filming a crayon eating contest.

[@tyronejones8848]

combat camera ain't no joke

[@writehse]

I lowkey died inside when I saw u toss the camera gear like that

[@f-15estrikeeagle35]

Cool! Thank god there is someone like you! A PA officer who doesn’t mess up plane names! Hope you have a wonderful time!

[@smithnyiu]

I was a photographer on the Thunderbirds and I'm glad to see young Lieutenants picking up cameras now. Especially PAOs. The AF has come a long way. Looks like you got some good shots too. Sorry about your lighting at showtime though haha. Been there. Keep up the great work, you make the AF better with this channel.

[@craigmiller4741]

Watching your video is a real treat Sam. You are a special part of your career field and the Air Force. That is apparent. You have taken your position as a photographer in the Air Force to another level which many have never seen before or even thought possible! Great job! With the Air Force Core Values as your guide the sky is no limit for you. The stars will gladly welcome you upon arrival. Don't leave others in your con trails as you progress in the Air Force, make them Wingmen.

[@SamEckholm]

Appreciate that ☺️

[@stevehuddleston6886]

Your content is second to none!! You're even a pleasure to watch in front of the camera. You have a very bright future ahead of you sir!!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻

[@MikeVinKC]

My dad was an Air Force Photographer. He loved the job. This was in the 70s and 80s. I remember seeing him in a swing from the bottom of a helicopter taking pictures of the Base. He has folders of negatives with great pictures.

[@avia3455]

Wow!

[@zinedinezethro9157]

Bro this is the coolest damn job I've ever heard

[@TyeBelcher]

Army, Navy, Marines and Coastguard all have this job too!

[@Austin-gb1cq]

I remember working on these in the 43d AMU back in 2007. We were standing on the flightline while we watched the first F-22 certification flight for demo flying. Very cool experience. If you work around these, take the opportunity to experience after burner runs in a fish bowl. It will be the loudest thing your body has ever felt.

[@ericteoshunquan]

Really love this video!! You're a real inspiration:) Brings me back to the time when I was serving my nation as a photographer in the Air Force media team, it was really a fulfilling experience. When the journey ends you will really look back at the photos that you took and be like "Woah, I really got to shoot that??" Anyways, showing love from Singapore:) Followed you ever since I came across you and the F-22 demo team at the Singapore Air Show!!

[@TheLevel52]

I am 20 years retired from the US Air Force...........Lifesupport ..1T171.....and I can tell this guy is cool........keep rocking it Sam...

[@willie1155]

OMG Can't believe Ive finally find my favorite KZbin channel. I have a huge passion for aviation and the army, and me myself is being a photographer. Jesus, can't believe, really great content.

[@SamEckholm]

Welcome to the fam bro!

[@mjohnson9563]

Best of all Sam, your position in the military as a photographer is one of high importance as it is related to recruitment. Every year each branch needs new enlistees and new officers, and it is a lot and without new recruitment, the US military would not be the best in the world. These types of videos are very inspirational for a great cause and glad you enjoy the work.

[@birdsofray]

I wish the F-22 was a two-seater so you can get a ride with Cabo. That would be awesome! Keep the great content coming!

[@Elfrontu_1972]

As former Combat Documentation Specialist myself, this is in fact the coolest job hands down. The job took me to many places such as Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan, among other places. Although I enlisted as a cameraman/video, I got to learn still photography on my own once I got to Army Combat Camera. I never had the opportunity to serve in a environment like this, I got stuck documenting war, which is the reason why I don’t take pictures any longer. To anyone who is seeking joining the service and likes photography, this is the job right here!

[@DaMastaMax]

Respect from an ex-Finnish Navy photographer. Your job seems sick.

[@alannorthdevonuk763]

Would that be 'Slick'?

[@dukesdayoungin3379]

@@alannorthdevonuk763 sick as in cool

[@AuthenTech]

Awesome video man, very well done!! 👏 Keep up the hard work 💪

[@liam2hil]

That camera bag tour was way too brief! Would love a more in-depth look at the gear you use. Great video, really enjoyed it!

[@martyscheall9626]

Right! What lenses are you using? But PLEASE treat it kinder!

[@Itscoltonmartin]

@@martyscheall9626 As a photographer, I had a heart attack when he tossed the lens on his camera lol

[@jv_lamsen10]

Bro I swear you should have more subscribers than you currently have! This content is sick! Amazing work, man you're one lucky guy I swear! I wish I could be there with you, it's always been my dream to stand next to one of the air force aircraft... so damn cool...

[@kelseyfitz8923]

Frick - I’m a photographer. And I’ve been pursuing the Air Force for months and had NO idea this was a thing whaaaaattt

[@isaacstebleton6408]

The Ocean City Airshow was a blast! I'm happy I was able to meet you on the beach!

[@TJWallaroos]

You represent the Air Force well. Great job sir.

[@EricPalmerBlog]

Awesome! Former USAF photog (uniform 1980-92) , GS civilian 1999-2008. Happy landings.

[@buck43201]

Wow, you have a great job. Seeing all the planes was very cool. Will you be coming to the Dayton Air Show?

[@SamEckholm]

My time on the team actually concluded at the end of last season, so while I won't be there, hopefully the F-22 Demo Team still will!

[@Astro-ls1zq]

ive been watching for a while, and i think youve inspired me to take action to actually join the airforce. my grandpa was a simulator expert in the 70's, but not only that, he was also cleaning guns, helmets, the works. i belive that your job is the right way to go for me, because ive always been interested in photogrophy and video editing. so, im gonna go talk to my requirter this friday and get some more details. i hope i make it whenever i take my ASVAB and my PT test.

[@johnquintana3570]

Amazing video! I’m currently waiting to get shipped out at the end of April! I’m extremely excited about heading to BMT and officially becoming part of the 1 percent! Keep up the great work!

[@pepeguitarcovers3202]

Bro you literally live the Ace Combat 5 journalist life. I love how great you're doing at the Air Force. I want to study electronical engineering and get a spot there as well!

[@057rcbartman]

enjoyed the video , love shooting jets at home here in newcastle australia , thanks for sharing , also i must add your commentary is excellent , clear , precise and informative, well spoken .

[@SamEckholm]

Thanks so much!

[@madisynlange7402]

Hey Sam! Just wanted to say that I love your content so, so much! I cannot describe in words how much I love aviation and planes (I plan on taking lessons and actually start flying a little Cessna or something this year), so I'm super excited about that! Someday, just maybe, I could join the Air Force and actually experience the things you do. But your videos always brings a smile to my face from seeing your positive attitude, the planes, and the great editing. I cannot believe that you only have 30k subs, you deserve a whole lot more! Keep it up, Sam! Have a great day/night!

[@JonathanChuter]

You are such a talented dude, and your job looks pretty sick XD awesome work Sam. Love your videos.

[@ivanovzargoff901]

I think I met you a couple years back at the Las Vegas Motor speedway. I was mind blown when you told me about your job and thanks for making a video for more people to enjoy.

[@dylanstraub9612]

OMG this must be a dream job despite the hard work. Glad I stumbled on this channel.

[@nerilamadrid471]

Was a UPAR. Had my share on some aerial photography aboard the C-130 and a Pave Hawk. And lots of deployments. Deployed with the PJs on an exercise. Was in Maryland on an exercise. Sure miss it a lot. One of my airman that i used to worked with is now a combat photographer.

[@zachm1313]

"Also if you were wondering this uniform is extremely hot" I was pretty disappointed when he did say it was available on his online shop with a link in description... :(

[@Tazandd]

You make every CC's retirement gift that much better. May God bless who ever does your DTS vouchers.

[@kalynd8556]

Was just thinking about how much this guy makes in per diem 😂

[@Drewinsk]

Ive been waiting for this video for so long!

[@SamEckholm]

Hope it lives up to the hype!

[@beatboxbuggi6884]

@@SamEckholm seems great to me!

[@Drewinsk]

@@SamEckholm It definitely did!

[@Billyboy70]

I have to say Sam along with everyone who watches your channel, you have the perfect job. When you speak about your job, it is so so calming and interesting. This is for sure another fantastic video so Thank you for sharing🤗👍🤗👍 🤗👍

[@SamEckholm]

I appreciate that!

[@ghashpl]

That gear cost more then I can earn in 3 years - how could you just trown them like that? My heart broke :(

[@JasonMcClaren]

"Military spec" strength

[@ghashpl]

@@JasonMcClaren if it's hardened gear it would cost even more and still optics are rather fragile :)

[@JasonMcClaren]

@@ghashpl Yeah, just joking around.

[@SpecterX]

Ikr. Definitely not the way to treat all that gear 😬

[@davisviews5669]

Two reasons, professional gear doesn't break that easy. There tools, you need to be able to use them you can't work if you only treat them like fragile babys, and for a professional photographer those prices just become normal

[@deltabravo1257]

This has to be the coolest USAF career ever! Thanks for your service. Just stumbled across your channel so I subscribed. USAF veteran here, at FAFB, WA.

[@tcmg4ar]

Very cool! A few questions! 1 - Did you go through all the boot camp training? 2 - Does the AF supply you with the camera/funds to buy the equipment? 3 - Do you film and photograph at the same time or screen grab from videos?

[@mr.ajayjose]

q2: the way he threw the gear around, I would assume so.

[@dubious6718]

You have probably already found this out, but he did got though the same training as everyone else.

[@WIYD88]

Yes he had to go through basic training, and his tech school was at DINFOS. Gear is provided but you can also use your own if you want to, depending on your unit’s funds. You generally wouldn’t do a screen grab from video because quality of stills would be inadequate.

[@kathy0698]

Awesome video! I had the pleasure of working on Nellis AFB in the early 70's. I was in a position to meet and greet many of the Thunderbird pilots. Love your videos!

[@wi_spotter]

This is awesome! I’ve been waiting for a video like this!

[@charlesdaniels1647]

Great job Sam... Went to that show. Just wishing we had that Friday weather both Saturday and Sunday. I remember seeing "Cabo" shredding the skies as I was driving across the bridge to get to the beach.... Always enjoy your work. Keep em coming.

[@timruskowski4923]

Let’s gooo! Can’t wait to show my family this bc I wanna follow in your footsteps!

[@SamEckholm]

Awesome man!

[@djlhobbies2579]

Stumbled on this...neat job. I worked on the Boeing team that built the wings and aft for those F22 beasts...great job, ended way to soon. Spent 20 years in the AF too, but not with a camera.

[@braedongirnius973]

Awesome video!!!! Love everything you do thanks man!!!

[@egress1977]

Thank you for sharing. I was lucky to work with some USAF photographers when I was active duty on the Thunderbirds, many years ago. The pictures my fellow Thunderbirds took and the the one you take are just great. Keep it up. Us old-timers like to see them!

[@Adam_Gray]

Awesome video Sam! Way to "raptor" things up!

[@rachellulich737]

The A-10 will always be my favorite aircraft. Got to see them at work once in Afghanistan, and loved seeing them fly over our base and hearing that relatively quiet, high-pitched engine whine.

[@Sp00kq]

This might be the single job I'd take in the military if I were to go in, which I probably won't. Or maybe a pilot for like a tanker (is that what they're called?). I love the US military, but honestly I don't think it's really for me. Photography has always been a topic I'm interested in.

[@donovancarter6464]

Don’t be a marine than. “Every marine a rifleman” is a literal term

[@Holsonbacked]

A combat photographer was in my section at NCOA (way back in 2003). I was pretty jealous of his AFSC (I was a 1N3X3A - Russian linguist). Great stories from him.

[@alejandroli2]

Damn I didn’t know you could be an officer and a photographer

[@SamEckholm]

Public affairs officer. I was in a unique spot on the demo team

[@alejandroli2]

@@SamEckholm that’s so cool! I am an 18 year old avionics guy on the f-16 dreaming in one day becoming a pilot haha

[@TAnimations]

@@SamEckholm Wow I didn't know public affairs was an officer job, thought it was enlisted. That's interesting.

[@Mikertt]

I had no idea you had a KZbin channel. I've been following you on Instagram for the past half year. Keep up the great content as always and thank you for your service.

[@_ducjk]

never gone to ocean city (bit too party-like for me if that makes sense) but I live nearby and I really wish I knew about this air show sooner! Edit: oh hey wallops island! I’ve been there a ton!

[@AirDotShow]

Someone just sent us the link to this, we agree, it is one of the coolest beachfront air shows in the world 😎 Thanks for doing a feature on us, hope you're doing well. If you want to come check out one of our tour destinations let us know! BL

[@michaelramirez4170]

So sweet! I'll be leaving to BMT April 6th 🤧

[@SamEckholm]

Best of luck!

[@dewbaby5010]

I leave April 27th🤟🏾

[@Trevor10122]

Yooo I leave April 6th too

[@KennethDAstonJr]

Wow very well done. I was a 3VO72 from 96-2001 and still shooting for the "military" too 30+ yrs great video

[@beatboxbuggi6884]

Ah, the “sound of freedom” is so true!

[@SagetheRomantic]

This is SOOOOO cool! I’m currently in the process of choosing a job, and this job was my first choice, but unfortunately, it’s not available. Anyways, I’m glad you had a chance to photograph this event! Keep up the good work!!!!

[@sciolifilms]

How did you land this job? Did you go through a recruiter or what? I am somewhat interested in the same career path. Also, does the air force supply you with the cameras and such?

[@SamEckholm]

All starts with contacting your recruiter. And yep they do!

[@happylifegrace4674]

@@SamEckholm former athletic performer and now I'd like to be photographer doing your line of work or film.

[@dmole9054]

Nice work Sam, I served in the 94th FS (AFE) many years back when they flew the F-15C.

[@BayTrades]

Become a Air Force photographer, steal all the incentive flights from the crew chiefs who actually do the work😂

[@SHWELL11]

lofl... Ive "Stolen" a few as a Controller.. 🤗

[@davegrenier1160]

You should put a gear list in the video description. Most pro photographers do so, knowing that the gear heads out here want to now what your shooting with.

[@deathman6452]

Not gonna lie, this is sick as fuck. I'm in the Army and maaaaad jealous. If I ever do it over, I would go Air Force hands down cause no sense in being miserable.

[@TyeBelcher]

Army has this job too. MOS is 25V

[@CookedLight]

Superb piece 🤘🏻

[@natw1875]

man i would kill to be a PAO in the air force.

[@jessicankatha1683]

I have never heard if thus job but this is the coolest thing I have ever seen omg I'm jealous! Your really lucky to be doing what you love as you travel the world. Everyone should do what they love whether it pays or not because its better to live your life happy and content than to feel like the money you earn is what defines you. No amount of pressure or difficulties should stop you from pursuing your dream.

[@moritzhofmann7190]

7:02 Oww

[@waydagotc]

I love your channel and insta. You do an amazing job at representing the AF and F22 team. Your work is incredible.

[@SamEckholm]

I appreciate that!

[@AmendMD]

Yo Sam, I'm gonna be a reserve pilot once I'm done with UPT next year. How can I incorporate my photography career with my flying? Can I get permission to travel with my photography gear? The air force Instagram page is a huge source of inspiration for me. Some of the photos you guys capture!!!!

[@SamEckholm]

Yah! Lots of pilots also do photography on the side

[@STANDARDISSUE_]

Your job is SICK! I am thinking about joining the Air Force but not being a pilot, and I’m also trying to get into photography, so this seems perfect for me. You might have a bit of competition in 10 years or so ;)

[@ahargrov1]

Love your page, and your bf page as well, very entertaining! Thanks!

[@yourfam1]

You're a pro photographer that's defined at first place by your thumbnail.

[@wyattwilliams2457]

I am planning to join the air Force once I am out of high school

[@mr.spaceboy9785]

You should go to college to be an officer my dad's biggest regret is not becoming an officer

[@wyattwilliams2457]

@@mr.spaceboy9785 thanks for the advice

[@beatboxbuggi6884]

Same, I’m aiming to fly Raptors

[@LauderdaleJoeM]

Be sure to talk to recruiters from the other equal 2 AF branches: Air Force Reserve & Air National Guard, both have active positions & awesome immediate benefits.

[@wyattwilliams2457]

@@LauderdaleJoeM I live 30 minutes from a FANG base

[@jsr8884]

Been there done that, now a veteran...enjoying photography nowadays. Happy landings (shootin’) buddy.

[@michaelsearnest]

US Navy Blue Angels were the stars of this show like all the rest... sorry zoomies, not today!

[@Roronoa1062]

Finally I found the person whose pic I saw on planespotters, that pic was of sukhoi with blazing steams over the cockpit.. that was amazing 00:18

[@gracecg3131]

What did you score on your asvab?

[@MikeD-dl5lk]

Sam, your videos are great. They're fun to watch, but also a good source of inspiration for young people who are thinking of life and career choices. It's been such a lame year, so these videos are a wonderful escape!

[@SamEckholm]

I appreciate that!

[@donovancarter6464]

Shows hotel room stating it’s “pretty nice” Laughs in motel 6 noises

[@chetfalkenhainer1626]

Not to shabby glad to see photogs doing what they do. Bravo Zulu from a former Navy Combat Photographer

[@historicallyaccurate2880]

You should do a Q&A

[@SamEckholm]

Yah I'll have to do one! Got any questions?

[@beatboxbuggi6884]

@@SamEckholm I’ve heard you have to be single to get into Air Force Academy. Since I’m planning to take this path into the USAF, I’d like to know whether this is true

[@SamEckholm]

@@beatboxbuggi6884 just can’t be married yes

[@historicallyaccurate2880]

@@SamEckholm How did you decide the Airforce? And are you still a Photographer working with the F-22 Demonstration Team? also love this channel.

[@SamEckholm]

@@historicallyaccurate2880 Finished up with the team last December

[@existingme285]

how can I be your apprentice?? literally two of my favorite things in the world, f-22 and photography. great stuff Sam!

[@721gamegona7]

So being in the Air force is not only about flying?

[@phoenix-king779]

Only like 2% of the jobs are pilots.

[@riskfactor5686]

I believe the most populated career field in the usaf is security forces

[@beatboxbuggi6884]

Not at all. Obviously there’s a need for ground crews to take care of the planes, ground control to manage radars, etc

[@dewbaby5010]

you can deadass be a chef in the Air Force.

[@riskfactor5686]

@Booby Belly well yeah, the airforce's mission is mainly all about air superiority, but that doesn't mean it's only about flying fast and gunning loud.

[@tylerwickham5677]

You deserve way more than 33K subscribers but keep up the amazing work!