My journey into aerial photography began – more or less – unexpectedly.

I was on a trip to Iceland, a land of stunning contrasts and unique landscapes. While hiking to capture the sweeping panoramas of this incredible place, I realised that I was limited by my perspective on the ground. The vastness and complexity of the landscape could not be fully appreciated from where I stood. I decided I had to take to the skies.

I had my first photography flight in a small Cessna airplane. Getting up in planes and helicopters or by using drones, I was able to explore and capture the world from an entirely new vantage point. The aerial perspective revealed patterns and details that were invisible from the ground. Rivers snaked through valleys like veins, forests appeared as textured carpets, and coral reef systems transformed into abstract artworks. This newfound perspective was not only visually stunning but also deeply moving. And it all gave me a greater appreciation for the delicate balance and interconnectedness of our planet’s ecosystems.

Over the past several years, my journey as an aerial photographer has taken me across the globe, capturing the breathtaking beauty of our planet from above. Through my lens, I have documented the ever-changing landscapes, from the vast deserts of Namibia to the massive glaciers in Alaska, and the intricate, fragile coral reefs of the world’s oceans. This journey has been as much about witnessing the beauty of nature as it has been about observing its transformations, many of which are stark reminders of the impact we have on our environment.

As part of my ‘Beneath the Surface’ project, I got to dive deeper into the aesthetically stunning worlds of coral reefs; one of the most beautiful and diverse ecosystems on our planet. These underwater marvels are home to thousands of species of marine life, including vibrant fish, sea turtles, and anemones. The colourful and intricate formations of the coral itself also contribute to the breathtaking beauty of the reef. One of the most stunning features of coral reefs is the way they shimmer and glow in the sunlight. Reflecting off the water, it creates a magical – almost otherworldly – effect that is especially visible from the air. The vibrant colours of the coral and the fish add to this beauty, creating a visual feast that is truly awe-inspiring.

But the beauty of coral reefs goes beyond their visual appeal. These underwater ecosystems play a vital role in our planet’s health, and their protection is essential for the well-being of both the environment and human society. Coral reefs support a vast array of plant and animal species, including commercially important fish that provide food and income for millions of people worldwide. They also act as natural barriers, protecting coastlines from storms and erosion, and providing habitats for a variety of marine organisms that help regulate the earth’s climate. In addition to their ecological importance, coral reefs also have significant economic value. Tourism associated with coral reefs generates billions of dollars in revenue and supports many jobs in countries around the world. They also absorb and store carbon dioxide, helping to regulate the global climate.