There is arguably no force of nature stronger or more terrifying than an F5 tornado. Years ago, one photographer inadvertently came face to face with one, and he had his camera ready. Here is his incredible story.
Coming to you from Blake Naftel, this video narrates the experiences of George Davis, a photographer who unwittingly captured a pivotal moment in history. On April 3, 1956, as he returned from a photo assignment, the photographer noticed ominous weather conditions. With his Speed Graphic camera by his side, he witnessed the formation of a tornado funnel. Positioned against his house for stability, he began documenting the event, not initially sure of the tornado's direction but prepared to seek shelter if necessary. His collection of images, taken approximately every minute, offers a rare, sequential view of the tornado’s path.
This experience was the photographer's first encounter with a tornado, despite being familiar with images of such phenomena. The intensity of the moment was heightened by the realization of the tornado’s rarity and potential devastation. He quickly understood the significance of what he was capturing.
In a race against time, the photographer chose to use his Speed Graphic camera, regretting his inability to retrieve his 16mm color film camera. Despite this, he successfully captured stunning images of the tornado, a feat he attributes to quick thinking and a lack of time for fear. The storm would go on to kill 18 and injure 333 as the last F5 or EF5 tornado in Michigan history.
After the event, understanding the rarity and potential impact of his photographs, he processed the images with a friend at the Grand Rapids Herald. These photos were later disseminated nationwide through the AP and UPI wire services, marking his first work to receive such widespread attention.
Reflecting on the day, Davis recalls the absence of any weather warnings and his serendipitous presence at the right time and place to document the tornado. This event marked a significant point in his career, not only for the public recognition it brought but also for the profound respect it instilled in him for nature's power.
The video serves as a testament to the importance of being in the right place at the right time, equipped with the right tools and the presence of mind to capture history as it unfolds.
