SPOTLIGHT: WHEN AND WHY DID YOU FIRST PICK UP A CAMERA? WHAT DID YOU SHOOT FIRST?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “When I first picked up a camera, I was about 9 or 10 years old. My father would let me use the final four shots of his 24-shot film camera. My initial amateur photography venture took place on my grandmother’s tea plantation in Sri Lanka, where I captured images of her elephants and the butterflies fluttering around. Fast forward to my early professional years, when I was around 18 to 20 years old, my first shoot involved capturing the wildlife in Sri Lanka.”

SPOTLIGHT: HOW DID YOU CONNECT THE DOTS BETWEEN YOUR PASSION FOR PHOTOGRAPHY AND YOUR PASSION FOR THE OCEAN?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “I find immense fascination in observing cloud formations, water formations, and wave sets. Photography, for me, is a deeply personal journey where I constantly strive to express my creativity in my own unique way. My approach to photography is deeply intertwined with my emotions and the creative energy I feel both during shoots and in the planning stages. Rather than looking to competitors or following trends, I focus on capturing subjects in a manner that resonates with me personally. When I encounter a subject, I assess how to encapsulate its essence within a single frame, whether through intricate close-up shots or expansive wide-angle compositions. I don’t adhere to rigid plans; instead, I allow the subject and environment to guide my creative process. In connecting my passion for photography with the ocean, I see a parallel in the themes of movement and flow, both of which inspire me to capture the dynamic beauty of the ocean in
my photographs.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT IS THE MAIN THING THAT, IN YOUR OPINION, ELEVATED YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY ONTO A PROFESSIONAL LEVEL?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “Achieving recognition as one of the top 10 wildlife photographers of the year by National Geographic was a significant milestone which, in my view, elevated my photography to a professional level.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT’S THE MAIN AIM OR THE MAIN MESSAGE OF YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY? WHAT ARE YOU TRYING TO ACHIEVE?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “The main aim and message of my photography revolve around inspiration and education. By sharing my work, I hope to motivate more individuals to explore and embrace the beauty of the world through travel. I aspire for us to unite in efforts to safeguard our planet and its invaluable resources. Every small effort counts towards this goal. By showcasing the world in its present state, reflecting on its past, acknowledging its changes, and envisioning its potential for the benefit of all living beings and ecosystems, I aim to inspire positive change.”

SPOTLIGHT: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY STYLE? WHAT MAKES IT STAND OUT AND HOW HARD WAS IT TO DEVELOP YOUR OWN STYLE?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “I would describe my photography style as centred around capturing the environment and its subjects authentically. What sets my style apart is my focus on encapsulating detail, depth, storytelling, and vastness within a single frame. Over time, my style has evolved through a combination of innate creativity and dedicated skill refinement. I continually challenge myself and embrace challenges until I am personally satisfied with my work. Ultimately, I produce photography that resonates with my own aesthetic preferences, leaving the judgment of its uniqueness to others.”

SPOTLIGHT: BEFORE A SHOOT, DO YOU HAVE THE PHOTO IN MIND OR DO YOU IMPROVISE? HOW DO YOU PLAN THE SHOTS?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “Before a shoot, I predominantly rely on improvisation, with a large percentage of my work being inspired in the moment by creativity. However, my projects are meticulously planned with a clear vision in mind. Planning a shoot involves extensive research, preparation, and ensuring the necessary equipment is in place. Deciding when and where to shoot is influenced by various factors, including the season, weather conditions, and the desired environment, subjects, and locations. Weather plays a crucial role, often dictating the feasibility and outcome of a shoot. For instance, the availability of diffused light on cloudy days can be advantageous compared to the harsh, direct sunlight on clear days, especially during midday when subjects may risk over-exposure. Ultimately, if the shoot is directed by a client, planning becomes tailored to meet their specific requirements.”

SPOTLIGHT: HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE FIELD OF AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY? DOES ONE EVENT SPRING TO MIND?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “My fascination with aircrafts and space has been a lifelong passion. Exploring the world from various aerial perspectives during flights to different destinations sparked my interest in aerial photography. During my younger years, my involvement with remote-controlled aircrafts and training as a pilot further fuelled my enthusiasm for aerial endeavours. It felt like a natural progression to delve into aerial photography, given my deep-seated passion for all things related to flight and aerial perspectives.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY? HOW DID THE FASCINATION WITH THAT FIELD DEVELOP?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “My fascination lies in the captivating patterns, colours, and textures that are revealed from aerial perspectives, which are often unseen from ground level. The advent of drones revolutionised the aerial photography landscape, offering boundless opportunities to explore the aerial realm. Given my profound interest in all things aerial, specialising in aerial photography was a natural progression for me. This fascination with the field developed as I delved deeper into the possibilities presented by aerial imagery and witnessed the breath-taking views and perspectives that can only be captured from above.”

SPOTLIGHT: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY STYLE? WHAT ELEMENTS DO YOU TRY TO INCORPORATE IN YOUR IMAGES?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “Currently, my photography style is characterised by its diversity, encompassing aerial, oceanic, celestial, and terrestrial landscapes. I strive to integrate a wide range of patterns, textures, lighting effects, and dynamic movements into my work, resulting in imagery that is rich in visual depth and variety.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT DO YOU NEED TO LOOK OUT FOR IN AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY? WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHALLENGES?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “Ensuring safety and privacy, as well as being mindful of objects and people in the vicinity of both the photographer and the drone during flight, are paramount considerations in aerial photography. Challenges often arise from factors such as varying weather conditions, wind speeds, and adherence to location regulations.”

SPOTLIGHT: HOW DO YOU FEEL WHEN WORKING IN THE AIR?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “Working in the air, especially in an open-door aircraft, evokes a unique sense of exhilaration, freedom, and joy. Despite the challenges of height and exposure, once immersed in the moment, I find myself fully present and absorbed in capturing what ignites my creativity and passion.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “I utilise Canon mirrorless cameras known for their exceptional resolution capabilities, paired with mid-wide-angle lenses. These lenses are particularly suited for aerial photography, allowing for capturing expansive vistas and intricate details from above.”

SPOTLIGHT: OM: WHAT MAKES WESTERN AUSTRALIA SO SPECIAL? WHY DID YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH THE PLACE?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “Western Australia holds a unique allure due to its vast expanse and abundance of untouched areas, making it a truly special and raw destination for filming. The region boasts a rich biodiversity, encompassing vast oceans, diverse marine life, pristine landscapes, and a vibrant array of colours and textures. The sheer scale of Western Australia makes wildlife photography particularly captivating, although it can also pose challenges in locating certain species due to their adept camouflage skills. From an aerial perspective, the patterns, colours, and textures observed from above are unparalleled, offering a visual feast unlike any other. This distinctiveness is what sets aerial photography apart in Western Australia, providing a breath-taking glimpse of the landscape’s intricacies and natural beauty.”

SPOTLIGHT: IN WHAT WAY DO YOU EXPLORE WESTERN AUSTRALIA DIFFERENTLY THAN OTHER PHOTOGRAPHERS?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “My exploration of Western Australia differs from other photographers in that I immerse myself fully in nature. From dawn until dusk, on land and immersed in water, I relish the opportunity to film amidst the vast landscapes of WA, far removed from the hustle and bustle of cities and the glare of light pollution. This approach grants me the freedom to delve deep into the region’s diverse environments, capturing the interplay of natural light, mesmerising night skies, and the enchanting beauty of the Milky Way.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE IMAGE YOU SHOT IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “The thorny devil holds a special place as one of my favourite animals globally. Capturing an image of this remarkable creature in its natural habitat is particularly rewarding, albeit challenging, given its exceptional camouflage skills in the wild.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT ARE CONSERVATION CONCERNS IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA? HOW ARE YOU TRYING TO CONVEY THESE THROUGH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “One of the paramount conservation concerns in Western Australia revolves around preserving its pristine natural beauty amidst ongoing environmental challenges. Through my photography, I endeavour to highlight the unparalleled beauty of Western Australia’s landscapes, ecosystems, and wildlife, aiming to inspire viewers to cherish and protect these invaluable resources. By showcasing the breathtaking diversity and delicate balance of nature through my lens, I hope to foster a deeper appreciation for the region’s natural wonders and encourage sustainable practices that safeguard its ecological integrity for future generations.”

SPOTLIGHT: HOW HAS THE USE OF AERIAL VIDEOGRAPHY AND PHOTOGRAPHY IN DOCUMENTARIES CHANGED WITHIN THE PAST 15 YEARS?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “The introduction of new technologies in the market and industry has opened up opportunities for everyone to depict and capture the world in innovative ways. These advancements have significantly expanded the toolkit available to professionals, enabling them to create stunning imagery across various settings. In the past, helicopters were primarily utilised for aerial photography, but the emergence of drones has revolutionised the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of capturing aerial footage. This shift has led to a notable increase in the use of aerial videography and photography in documentaries over the past 15 years, as these new tools offer greater flexibility, affordability, and versatility, ultimately broadening the opportunities for filmmakers to capture captivating visuals from unique perspectives.”

SPOTLIGHT: HOW HAS SOCIAL MEDIA CHANGES THE FACE OF DRONE AND AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY? WHAT ARE THE POSITIVES AND NEGATIVES?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “The emergence of social media has revolutionised the drone and aerial photography industry, making content and experience more accessible to a wider audience than ever before. On the positive side, social media platforms encourage people to explore and experience the world from new perspectives, fostering a greater appreciation for diverse landscapes and cultures. However, there are also negatives to consider. Unfortunately, lax adherence to aerial and drone rules and regulations can lead to irresponsible behaviour especially on social media platforms, creating accessibility challenges for professionals who abide by safety protocols and legal requirements. Looking ahead, I envision the industry experiencing further growth and development, driven by advancements in technology. This will likely lead to the creation of more immersive content and innovative apparatus, shaping the future of drone and aerial photography in exciting ways.”

SPOTLIGHT: IN THE 2023 OCEAN PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR YOU HAD A COUPLE OF IMAGES IN THE RUNNING. ONE EXAMPLE IS THE POLAR BEAR SHOT THAT WAS A FINALIST IN THE FINE ART CATEGORY. TELL US A BIT MORE ABOUT THE IMAGE.

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “The Arctic is one of my happy places. Its environment can be like another world. I had high hopes of encountering, photographing and filming polar bears – it is not however guaranteed you will see them, especially a polar bear on a glazier. Lucky for me and believe it or not, my dream came true. This photograph was my first polar bear encounter. I couldn’t believe it – timing, setting, light, positioning – it was all picture perfect with the added bonus of a waterfall! The toughest job was me – standing in a small zodiac with waves making it sway and changing weather conditions, it took a prayer, a breath, and a second. I am really happy with the result.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT OR PHOTOGRAPH YOU EVER TOOK?

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “While I don’t have a single favourite photograph, capturing images of a polar bear in the Arctic holds a special place for me. The composition of the polar bear against the ice, coupled with the perfect lighting, vivid colours, and stunning environment, created a truly magical moment. As for favourite projects, I have to mention my work on the Planet Earth series and my travels to the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Experiencing both polar regions months apart allowed me to witness the stark differences in environments, making these projects incredibly meaningful and memorable.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE OCEAN EXPERIENCE TO DATE? 

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “One of the most unforgettable ocean experiences while filming was when a blue whale swam alongside our small vessel. It surfaced right next to us, exhaling gracefully, and lingered around for over 30 minutes, gracefully swimming in circles around us.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS AND TRICKS FOR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY? WHAT IS YOUR NUMBER ONE ADVICE?   

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “In regards to tips and tricks: Utilise minimal equipment and consider pre-programmed camera settings for efficiency. Before shooting, thoroughly familiarise yourself with your camera and lens to fully grasp their capabilities. As for advice: Don’t hesitate to experiment with manual mode. Challenge yourself by capturing an image with the camera set to auto settings, then try to replicate the same shot using manual settings to enhance your skills and understanding of photography.”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT ANIMAL WOULD YOU LOVE TO TAKE A PHOTO OF BUT HAVEN’T YET? 

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “That’s an easy one… the elusive snow leopard!”

SPOTLIGHT: WHAT’S NEXT ON YOUR AGENDA? ANY BIG PLANS FOR 2024 AND BEYOND? 

MICHAEL HALUWANA: “My next endeavour is to embark on travel photography across the African continent, completing my exploration of all seven continents on Earth. Stay tuned for upcoming plans and adventures in 2024 and beyond.”

Primarily focusing on capturing captivating aerial videos and photographs, Michael Haluwana aims to offer unique perspectives of Western Australia’s wildlife, landscape and seascapes. With over 18 years of experience in photography and cinematography, he was born in Sri Lanka before moving to Perth, Western Australia. Here, he has honed his skills as an aerial photographer and cinematographer and has won numerous photography awards. Michael has captured content for the BBC documentaries Planet Earth II and Planet Earth III which were both narrated by Sir David Attenborough, and has worked on other formats for National Geographic, Netflix and Discovery.