Graeme Purdy

GRAEME PURDY ,UK

DRONE CATEGORY WINNER

Aerial photography is at best when it is used to show unique perspectives. We see so many images in life and even in today’s world aerial photography can create unique and interesting images. While we spent 10 days staring at sea ice, when you see the same scene from above it creates so much intrigue.

Altitude in itself is not always that liberating, we are able to climb hills or ascend tall buildings. Angle, on the other hand, can make the image quite unique, the straight down view is usually reserved for birds and since I first saw these images they have always excited me. So many of our everyday views can be transformed

Using a drone is increasingly difficult, it is frustrating but I do understand that regulations need to be in place. Drones must be used respectfully and safely. Saying that, the authorities can impose rules that seem to have no purpose than to stop creators flying, ultimately you need to respect the rules and work around them

I find it hard to visualize in advance, something I frequently do for standard photography. I find myself exploring the skies for unique views. If it is a view I can picture in advance then it is probably something I have seen before. I find aerial photography really challenges the mind and pushes you to use every second of battery life to make the most of a location.

scale is difficult as often you lose scale and wouldn’t know how far away the subjects really are. As for pattern, again, this is one of the beauties of aerial photography, seeing patterns in everyday scenes that are only visible from the skies. It makes the process of shooting these images very exciting.

Often I find myself shooting in high winds, this adds a degree of risk to the shoot and seeing warning notices on the screen is a constant worry. The drones are so stable and advanced now, they can take a lot of adverse conditions in their stride. Lighting for aerial photography is an interesting one as more often than not you need directional light and strong light to make colourful contrasty images that have shadows to create definition.

It has been wonderful to have my work recognised, it is such a thrill. My advice to drone pilots starting out is to fly as often as you can and master your equipment then master all locations close to you. It will take passion, time and commitment, but after all, all the best things come with an investment of time and heart and soul