This month saw the International Professional Aerial Photographer print competition take place in Charleston, USA – and although I couldn’t be there in person (work commitments keep me here in Australia), I’m honoured to join remotely and see my mounted prints represent me on the other side of the world.
I’m humbled to share that my work has been awarded Best Artistic Aerial, Best Landscape Aerial, Best Vertical, People’s Choice, and multiple Judges’ Choice awards. To have these images resonate with both the expert panel and the wider audience is incredibly rewarding. Here’s a closer look at each of the winning photographs:
Best Artistic Aerial
Photographed from a helicopter for the City of New York and One World Trade Center, this image presents Lower Manhattan in a dramatic “planet view” perspective. The dusk light casts a glow over the skyline, creating an otherworldly effect that feels both surreal and iconic.
Best Landscape Aerial
This print has become one of my most iconic New York images. Captured from above Central Park during a rare, crystal-clear evening, the high-resolution panorama reveals the greenery of the park contrasted against the dense city skyline, glowing under the last light of the day.
Best Vertical Aerial
This ultra-high-resolution vertical was created as part of aerial mapping for the Australian Open. Photographed high above Melbourne and coordinated with both event organisers and Air Traffic Control, the image captures the vibrancy and scale of one of the world’s greatest sporting events.
People's Choice - Best Aerial Photography
Voted by the audience, this vertical aerial shows New York City’s incredible density, with Central Park perfectly framed between the East and Hudson Rivers. It’s a perspective that highlights the city’s sheer scale and the striking contrast between built form and open space.
Judges Choice - Best Aerial Photography - Multiple Categories
Awarded across multiple categories, this unique high-resolution print captures Central Park bathed in golden hour light. The greenery of the park is surrounded by the soaring density of Manhattan, producing a striking contrast that stood out to the panel of judges.
Even from afar, this recognition is a career highlight. These awards reinforce that aerial photography isn’t just about documenting from above, it’s about creating work that inspires, surprises, and connects. I’m grateful to the International Aerial Photographers Association and the panel of judges for the recognition, and to the pilots, crews, and clients who make every flight possible.
Aerial photography of Downtown Manhattan at Dusk
High above Central Park Sunset
Planet New York - Captured for the City of New York.
Aerial Photography above Central Park at Dusk
Mapping the 2018 Australian Open Mapping from a helicopter
Helicopter aerial of Melbourne at Dusk
Melbourne CBD captured at dusk from a helicopter