Every year, the Drone Photo Awards deliver a fresh look at our world, and 2024 is no exception. From sweeping landscapes to human impact and environmental conflicts, these aerial images offer perspectives that you won’t find at ground level.
Photographers are asked to zoom out—literally—using drones and other flying devices to capture the breathtaking beauty of our planet, but also its fragility and the challenges we face.
The winning photos provide a broad view of global events, showcasing everything from vast elephant herds roaming the African plains to a shepherd diligently protecting his endangered sheep. Take a look at the awardees below and find your inspiration. For additional information, be sure to visit their website.
A massive sperm whale was stranded on Perth’s beaches for nearly four days, ultimately passing away on the fifth day. The photograph was taken the following day when a tiger arrived to carry out nature’s final tasks.
2. “Ground vein” by Xiaoying Shi. Winner, Nature.
Drawn to the extraordinary rock formations of Factory Butte in Utah, Xiaoying had made three trips to explore its beauty firsthand. After purchasing a drone, she eagerly returned for additional aerial photography sessions. On the third day, the gentle, golden light finally graced the landscape, bringing out richer textures and adding a captivating depth to her shots.
3. “Rocket” by Yuriy Stolypin. Winner, Urban.
This breathtaking shot of Lakhta Center, the tallest building in Europe, is the result of months of preparation and patience for the right weather conditions. Taken from the maximum height a drone could achieve, it offers a unique perspective on the iconic structure.
4. “Love from Above” by Joanna Zdancewicz. Winner, Wedding.
“From the sky, a Volkswagen Beetle provides a charming backdrop as newlyweds share a tender kiss.”
5. “Resting in the safe arms of Mother Nature” by Pravin Shanmughanandam. Commended, Wildlife.
Under the bright midday sun, a group of Asian elephants, including a playful calf, rests peacefully on a vibrant green meadow after a morning of feeding. These pristine grasslands and secluded shola forest patches are essential refuges, providing safe and undisturbed environments that are crucial for the survival of elephants in the wild.
6. “Tree of life” by Isabella Tabacchi. Winner, Abstract.
An aerial perspective of Iceland's highlands unveils nature's artistic touch. The convergence of grooves, rivers, and vegetation creates a pattern resembling a tree, showcasing the delicate yet powerful artistry that defines this dramatic landscape.
7. “Shepherd with herd” by Ivo Danchev. Runner-up, People.
Shepherd Nikola stands proudly with his small flock of the endangered Karakachani sheep, one of the last remaining purebred herds. This breed survived despite the Karakachani tribe, forced to abandon their nomadic ways under the communist regime, losing much of their livestock and way of life.
8. “Blue Adrenaline: The Surge of Pipeline” by Matt Dusig. Highly Commended, Sports.
This photograph presents an artistic, impressionistic view of a lively surf day at Pipeline on Oahu’s North Shore. The scene is gracefully blurred, capturing the energetic motion of both the crashing waves and the surfers riding them.
9. “The eye of the Dragon” by Miki Spitzer. Runner-up, Nature.
In Iceland's rugged highlands, a geothermal pool bears an uncanny resemblance to a dragon's eye. With its unique hues and the texture of the ground, the pool creates a mesmerizing illusion that resembles the reflection of a watchful eye.
10. “Sea of pink” by Paul Mckenzie. Winner, Series and Runner-up, Wildlife.
Lesser flamingos, known for their graceful flight, sometimes gather in staggering numbers when feeding conditions are perfect at select soda lakes. This photo captures just a small portion of the more than one million birds that descended on Lake Logipi in Kenya for several weeks.
11. “Welcome to the hell” by Andrea Curzi. Commended, Nature.
In Iceland, the magic happens as the sun rises over Mount Litli Hrutur, casting the perfect light on the volcanic spectacle after hours of anticipation. Mount Litli Hrutur is a striking, isolated peak located in Iceland, known for its dramatic landscapes and unique geological features. It offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is part of the larger volcanic landscape that characterizes the region.
12. “An early winter wonderland morning” by Maksym Gogolyev. Commended, Urban.
This stunning drone shot captures Neuschwanstein Castle basking in the soft glow of a winter morning. Draped in a pristine layer of snow, the castle's impressive architecture rises gracefully above the peaceful scenery, conjuring an atmosphere of magic and awe.
Perched gracefully in Germany’s scenic Bavaria region, this breathtaking 19th-century palace looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. Commissioned by King Ludwig II, Neuschwanstein Castle features whimsical architecture and captivating spires, drawing millions of visitors each year
