What was the inspiration for becoming an Aerial Photographer?
Views from airplane windows have always captivated me, and the idea of shooting things from a bird’s eye perspective inspired me to begin aerial photography.
What are the specific technique or photographic methods you use?
I mostly like to chase a good story. One specific technique, I love is droneception, It is a technique where we have to take multiple pictures from different perspectives and blend them into one final output.
How does your style stay unique when compared to other aerial photographers out there?
I didn’t try to shoot in any unusual methods when I first started aerial photography. I enjoy photographing landscapes and have attempted to incorporate my own flair. Also, it is possible that post-processing played a significant role. In certain ways, I believe that all photographers will develop their own distinct style over time.
Do you think post-production is as important as the actual shoot?
Post-production is a critical component of my workflow. I believe we may use it to convey our mood in a variety of ways. I spend a lot of time practicing dodge/burn.
What do you believe makes your images successful?
Apart from the technical aspect, what makes me feel images are successful is when we are able to express the story we want to convey, and when the final output is as close as to our pre-visualization.
How do you enhance your photography skills and widen your knowledge?
Learning photography is a never-ending process. I began by studying books and subsequently a variety of tutorials. Shooting with other photographers is quite beneficial. I also spent a lot of time looking over the portfolios of my favourite photographers
Can you tell us about your most satisfying project and how did you meet that challenge?
My recent project for Vivo movies is to shoot wildlife and some unexplored landscapes of eastern ghats. It was challenging and exhausting as we were shooting continuously with very less sleep. But the end-product was very satisfying.
According to you, what is the most important element one should master in aerial photography?
To make the image look 3 dimensional when trying to show more depth. Without which, I feel such aerial images look flat. Including shadows or some elements may help.
What is your major achievements as an aerial photographer?
Most of my major awarding-winning shots were taken using drones. Beyond the different perspectives, to be able to tell those powerful stories through aerial photos is my major achievement.
Is there any specific favourite location you wish to shoot – and why?
Iceland during summers is my favorite location to shoot. Highlands there is magical along with some waterfalls and glaciers.
What is the one lasting impression you want to leave in your photos?
one lasting impression I want to leave in my photos is that paradise is not just flights away, you can find it around us.
Of the countless aerial photographs you have taken, do you have an all-time favourite?
Absolutely not. I love almost all my images and very tough to have one favorite.
Do you have any iconic places or locations that draw you back for more photography?
Kerala is one place that always makes me wanna shoot.
What are some of your future projects and goals?
My cute goal is to shoot more unexplored places and untold stories
What methods do you use to review sets of photographs to select the best work from a shoot?
While shooting itself, I will review all images which helps a lot to pick the best ones when picking from the laptop.
What preparations you do before you go to a location to do aerial photography?
Spending hours on google earth helps a lot to get a sense of the place. Apps like photo pills come very handy as well. Also, doing some research about drone permission and other aspects is essential.
As a photographer what do you think of the role of social media in photography?
To showcase our work on social media to a wider audience is a good thing. Many can resonate with our works and the ability to connect with others through our stories is a great feeling.
What is your advice for upcoming aerial or drone photographers and opportunities in the field?
To practice as much as possible and to master the craft. Have a pre-flight checklist and make sure you are not flying in restricted zones.
There are many opportunities in this field and having a good portfolio and a good social media presence helps a lot.
