Alex MacLean
"I believe that photography has the power to educate, inform, and inspire change."
Aerial photography has the power to provide unique and breathtaking perspectives on the world we live in. Among the most influential and highly-regarded practitioners of this art form is Alex MacLean (website). With a career spanning over four decades, MacLean has captured countless stunning images of landscapes and urban environments from the skies, providing viewers with a fresh take on familiar scenes.
Early Life and Career
Born in 1947 in Massachusetts, USA, Alex MacLean was fascinated by photography from a young age. He pursued this passion by earning a Master's degree in architecture from Harvard University, where he honed his skills in composition and design. In 1975, MacLean obtained his pilot's license, combining his love for photography and aviation to create a successful career in aerial photography.
Photographic Style and Techniques
MacLean's photographic style is characterized by his attention to detail and his ability to capture the intricate patterns and textures of both natural and man-made landscapes. He often focuses on the contrast between these two elements, showcasing the dynamic interplay between humans and the environment. Through his lens, viewers are invited to explore the world from a new perspective, appreciating the beauty, complexity, and interconnectedness of our surroundings.
Career Highlights
Over the years, Alex MacLean has earned numerous accolades for his work, including multiple grants and prestigious awards. His aerial photographs have been featured in countless exhibitions and publications worldwide, and he has worked with clients such as National Geographic, The New York Times, and various environmental organizations. MacLean's images have also been used for educational purposes, illustrating the impact of human activity on the environment and promoting environmental conservation efforts.
Photography Gear
Some of the key gear used by Alex MacLean includes:
High-resolution digital cameras: MacLean relies on high-quality digital cameras to capture the fine details and rich colors of the landscapes he shoots. Brands such as Canon and Nikon are often favored for their exceptional image quality and performance.
Wide-angle lenses: To capture the vast expanses of land and cityscapes, MacLean often uses wide-angle lenses, which allow him to include more of the scene in a single frame.
Polarizing filters: These filters help to reduce glare and reflections, enhancing the clarity and contrast of MacLean's aerial images.
Light aircraft: MacLean pilots a light aircraft, such as a Cessna, to reach the altitudes and locations necessary for his photography.
Published Photo Books
"Impact: The effect of climate change on coastlines" offers a unique perspective on the consequences of climate change on coastlines worldwide, utilizing aerial photography to provide a powerful visual narrative. Alex MacLean's expertise in capturing the Earth's landscape from the sky is evident in this book, making it a valuable resource for photographers interested in environmental issues and the power of aerial imagery.
"Designs on the Land: Exploring America from the Air" showcases a stunning collection of aerial photographs that reveal the patterns and designs of the American landscape. This book offers practicing photographers insights into the techniques used to capture these images, as well as inspiration for their own aerial photography projects.
"Up on the Roof: New York's Hidden Skyline Spaces" uncovers the hidden world of New York City's rooftop spaces, providing a fresh perspective on the city's architectural marvels. The book emphasizes the importance of capturing unique viewpoints in photography and offers inspiration for photographers seeking to explore urban environments.
"Over: The American Landscape at the Tipping Point" is a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of human activity on the environment. Through striking aerial photographs, Alex MacLean highlights the tipping point faced by the American landscape and offers inspiration to photographers interested in documenting the relationship between humans and nature.
"Renaissances" is a captivating collection of aerial photographs that capture the architectural wonders of the Renaissance period in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France. Commissioned to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Renaissance in 2019, renowned landscape photographer Alex MacLean took to the skies in July 2018 to photograph the region's historic castles. The book features stunning aerial images of these UNESCO World Heritage sites, revealing the quintessence of a time when kings and patrons inspired an extraordinary revival of art and thought. "Renaissances" offers photographers inspiration for exploring new perspectives and techniques while documenting the beauty of historic architecture and the stories it holds.
Quotes
"Aerial photography allows us to see the world in ways that are not possible from the ground."
"The challenge is to capture the essence of a place or a moment, while also conveying a sense of the larger context in which it exists."
"I believe that photography has the power to educate, inform, and inspire change."
Legacy and Influence
Alex MacLean's pioneering work in aerial photography has left an indelible mark on the field, inspiring countless photographers to explore new perspectives and techniques. His images have not only served as powerful tools for education and environmental advocacy but have also pushed the boundaries of photographic art.
Other notable photographers with similar styles are:
George Steinmetz: Known for his stunning aerial images captured from a motorized paraglider, Steinmetz's work often showcases remote landscapes and the impact of human activity on the environment.
Yann Arthus-Bertrand: A French photographer and environmentalist, Arthus-Bertrand is celebrated for his aerial photography projects, such as "The Earth from Above," which aim to raise awareness about environmental issues.
Vincent Laforet: A Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer, Laforet has captured breathtaking aerial images of cities and landscapes around the world. His "Air" series, featuring nighttime cityscapes, is particularly renowned.
Tommy Clarke: A British aerial photographer, Clarke is known for his vibrant and abstract images of coastal landscapes, often taken while hanging out of helicopters.
Through his dedication to the craft and his unwavering commitment to showcasing the beauty and fragility of our world, Alex MacLean has solidified his place in the history of aerial photography. Aspiring photographers can learn much from his unique vision, technical prowess, and passion for the environment. By appreciating and understanding the work of trailblazers like MacLean, the next generation of photographers can continue to push the boundaries of aerial photography, capturing the world from new heights and perspectives.
Tommy Clarke
"Color is such an important element in my work; it brings life to each image and creates a sense of depth and emotion."
From stunning coastal landscapes to vibrant cityscapes, Tommy Clarke's (website) aerial photography captures the essence of our world from a breathtaking perspective. His work, characterized by bold colors and striking compositions, has earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the most influential aerial photographers in the industry.
Early Life and Career
Tommy Clarke was born and raised in the United Kingdom, where he developed a passion for photography at a young age. He studied photography at the Arts University Bournemouth, and it was during this time that he began experimenting with aerial photography. After graduation, Clarke traveled extensively, seeking unique perspectives and capturing the world's beauty from above.
Clarke's big break came when he started sharing his aerial photographs on social media, quickly gaining attention for his unique style and impressive imagery. His work has since been featured in numerous publications, exhibitions, and galleries worldwide.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Tommy Clarke's photographic style is characterized by his ability to transform ordinary landscapes into extraordinary visual experiences. His images are marked by vibrant colors, bold contrasts, and geometric patterns that captivate the viewer's attention. Clarke often shoots from helicopters, which allows him to achieve the perfect aerial perspective and capture intricate details from high above.
Some key elements of Clarke's style include:
Emphasis on color: Clarke's photographs are known for their vivid colors, which add depth and visual interest to each image.
Abstract compositions: By focusing on the patterns and shapes created by natural and man-made landscapes, Clarke's work often takes on an abstract quality.
Unique perspectives: Clarke's aerial viewpoint allows him to capture scenes that are otherwise impossible to see from the ground, creating truly one-of-a-kind images.
Career Highlights
Clarke's work has been featured in numerous publications, including Vogue, GQ, and The Guardian.
He has collaborated with several high-profile clients, such as British Airways, Land Rover, and Sony.
Clarke's photography has been exhibited in galleries worldwide, including London, New York, and Sydney.
Photography Gear
Tommy Clarke's choice of photography gear reflects his commitment to capturing the highest quality aerial images. Some of the key pieces of equipment he uses include:
High-resolution camera: Clarke typically shoots with a medium format camera, such as the Hasselblad H6D, which provides exceptional image quality and detail.
Wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens, like the Hasselblad HC 35mm, allows Clarke to capture expansive scenes and create dynamic compositions.
Stabilization equipment: To ensure sharp images while shooting from a helicopter, Clarke often uses gyroscopic stabilization systems to minimize camera shake and movement.
Photography Books
"Up in the Air" by Tommy Clarke is a remarkable collection of aerial photography, showcasing a diverse range of landscapes and locations from around the world. Spanning six years of work, the book features 100 stunning color photographs capturing locations such as California, Australia's Shark Bay, Utah, and St. Tropez.
This book is a valuable resource for practicing photographers, as it highlights the unique aspects of aerial photography and the techniques used to achieve these captivating images. The photographs in "Up in the Air" showcase Tommy Clarke's progression from documentary travel photography to abstract art, offering insights into the creative process and inspiration for photographers interested in exploring aerial photography and the fascinating interaction between land and water.
Quotes
"I love the challenge of finding beauty in the everyday, and aerial photography allows me to do that in a unique and exciting way."
"Color is such an important element in my work; it brings life to each image and creates a sense of depth and emotion."
"The world looks different from above, and I want to share that perspective with others, to help them see the beauty that surrounds us all."*
"For me, photography is about pushing boundaries and taking risks; I'm always looking for new ways to capture the world from above."
"There's something magical about seeing a familiar landscape transformed into an abstract work of art through the lens of my camera."
Legacy and Influence
Tommy Clarke's impact on the world of aerial photography has been significant, with his distinctive style and exceptional images inspiring both aspiring and established photographers alike. His ability to transform ordinary landscapes into extraordinary visual experiences has earned him a place among the greats in aerial photography.
Other notable photographers with similar style are:
Alex MacLean: Known for his detailed aerial images of landscapes and urban environments, MacLean shares Clarke's fascination with capturing the world from above.
Cameron Davidson: A fellow aerial photographer, Davidson is recognized for his striking images of both natural and man-made landscapes, often exploring the intersection between the two.
Jason Hawkes: Like Clarke, Hawkes focuses on capturing vibrant, high-resolution images from a bird's-eye view, showcasing the beauty and complexity of the world from above.
These photographers, along with Tommy Clarke, have contributed to the growing popularity of aerial photography as an art form, pushing the boundaries of traditional landscape photography and offering unique perspectives on our world.
Vincent Laforet
"Photography is about capturing a moment in time and sharing it with the world. In a way, it's like writing a visual poem."
Vincent Laforet is a renowned aerial photographer whose breathtaking images of cities and landscapes from above have captivated audiences worldwide. His unique perspective and innovative techniques have garnered him numerous awards and recognition, solidifying his place among the most influential aerial photographers in the industry.
Early Life and Career
Born in 1975, Vincent Laforet grew up in Switzerland and the United States. From a young age, he displayed an interest in photography, which eventually led him to study at the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. After graduating, he began his career as a photojournalist, working for publications like The New York Times and National Geographic. Over time, he transitioned to aerial photography, where he discovered his true passion and talent.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Vincent Laforet's aerial photography is characterized by its striking compositions, vivid colors, and sharp detail. He often captures cities at night, showcasing their dazzling lightscapes and unique patterns. Laforet's approach to aerial photography involves shooting from high altitudes, often using helicopters to achieve the perfect vantage point. This allows him to create images that are both visually stunning and deeply immersive.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Vincent Laforet has achieved numerous accomplishments, including:
Winning the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography in 2002 as part of a team covering the events of 9/11.
Being named one of the "100 Most Influential People in Photography" by American Photo magazine.
Collaborating with major brands like Apple, Nike, and Adobe on various campaigns and projects.
Photography Gear
Vincent Laforet's photography gear includes the following:
Cameras: Laforet primarily uses Canon DSLRs, such as the Canon EOS 1D X and the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, for their high-resolution capabilities and excellent low-light performance.
Lenses: A variety of lenses, including wide-angle and telephoto options, allow him to capture different perspectives and compositions. Some of his favorites include the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM and the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM.
Gyro-stabilized mounts: To ensure sharp, stable images while shooting from a helicopter, Laforet uses gyro-stabilized mounts like the Shotover F1 or Cineflex systems.
Photography Books
"Up in the Air" by Tommy Clarke is a remarkable collection of aerial photography, showcasing a diverse range of landscapes and locations from around the world. Spanning six years of work, the book features 100 stunning color photographs capturing locations such as California, Australia's Shark Bay, Utah, and St. Tropez.
This book is a valuable resource for practicing photographers, as it highlights the unique aspects of aerial photography and the techniques used to achieve these captivating images. The photographs in "Up in the Air" showcase Tommy Clarke's progression from documentary travel photography to abstract art, offering insights into the creative process and inspiration for photographers interested in exploring aerial photography and the fascinating interaction between land and water.
Quotes
Here are some insightful quotes from Vincent Laforet:
"Aerial photography allows us to see the world from a different perspective, revealing patterns and structures that are otherwise invisible from the ground."
"Photography is about capturing a moment in time and sharing it with the world. In a way, it's like writing a visual poem."
"When I'm up in the air, I feel a sense of freedom and a connection to something much larger than myself."
"There's something magical about seeing a city's lights come alive at night – it's like watching the world's largest light show."
“Success in photography is about pushing yourself to be better, to evolve, and to never stop learning."*
Legacy and Influence
Vincent Laforet's impact on aerial photography is undeniable. His ability to transform cityscapes into mesmerizing works of art has inspired countless photographers to explore aerial perspectives in their own work. Laforet's dedication to innovation and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of photography have solidified his place as one of the most influential aerial photographers of his generation.
Other notable aerial photographers with similar styles are:
Alex MacLean: Known for his captivating aerial images of landscapes, architecture, and urban environments, MacLean's work shares a similar appreciation for patterns and structures found in the world from above.
Tommy Clarke: Clarke's aerial photography often focuses on natural landscapes and coastal scenes, utilizing bold colors and striking compositions to create visually stunning images.
By showcasing the beauty and intricacy of the world from a bird's-eye view, Vincent Laforet and other aerial photographers continue to inspire and influence both aspiring and established photographers. Their work encourages us to see our surroundings in a new light and to appreciate the world's complexity from a unique perspective.
George Steinmetz
“The sky is not the limit; it's just the beginning of a new adventure."
George Steinmetz is a renowned aerial photographer known for his breathtaking images that capture the world from a bird's-eye view. His work has been featured in numerous publications, including National Geographic, The New York Times Magazine, and Smithsonian. With a passion for exploration and a dedication to capturing the beauty of our planet, Steinmetz's photography offers a unique perspective on the world around us.
Early Life and Career
George Steinmetz was born in 1957 in Beverly Hills, California. He developed a love for photography during his college years at Stanford University, where he studied geophysics. After graduating, Steinmetz embarked on a solo journey across Africa, which fueled his passion for both travel and photography.
Steinmetz's career took off after he began experimenting with aerial photography in the late 1980s. He developed a unique method of capturing images using a motorized paraglider, allowing him to access remote and hard-to-reach locations. Over the years, he has honed his skills and built an impressive portfolio that showcases the diversity and beauty of our planet.
Photographic Style and Techniques
George Steinmetz is best known for his aerial photography, which offers a unique perspective on the world's landscapes and natural wonders. He often captures his subjects from low altitudes, providing a sense of intimacy and detail that sets his work apart from traditional aerial photography. Steinmetz's images are characterized by their stunning compositions, vibrant colors, and striking contrasts.
Career Highlights
Throughout his illustrious career, Steinmetz has received numerous awards and accolades for his photography. Some of his most notable achievements include:
Four-time winner of the prestigious World Press Photo award
Recipient of the National Magazine Award for Photography
Named a National Geographic Explorer of the Year
In addition to his many awards, Steinmetz's work has been exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide, further cementing his status as a leading figure in aerial photography.
Photography Gear
George Steinmetz's photography gear is tailored to his unique approach to aerial photography. Some of the key equipment he uses includes:
Motorized paraglider: Steinmetz's custom-built paraglider allows him to access remote locations and capture stunning aerial images with ease.
DSLR camera: Steinmetz often uses high-quality DSLR cameras, such as the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, for their exceptional image quality and versatility.
Wide-angle lenses: To capture the expansive landscapes he photographs, Steinmetz typically relies on wide-angle lenses, such as the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM.
Photography Books
"The Human Planet: Earth at the Dawn of the Anthropocene" provides a compelling look at the impact of human activity on Earth, as seen through George Steinmetz's aerial photography. This book offers valuable insights into environmental issues and serves as a source of inspiration for photographers interested in capturing the relationship between humans and the planet.
In "New York Air: The View from Above", George Steinmetz showcases his mastery of aerial photography, capturing the iconic cityscapes of New York from a unique perspective. This book is a valuable resource for photographers looking to learn techniques for capturing urban environments from above and finding inspiration in cityscapes.
"Desert Air" is a visual exploration of the world's most remote and fascinating deserts, captured through George Steinmetz's aerial photography. This book provides a wealth of inspiration for photographers looking to convey the beauty and mystery of these vast landscapes, while offering unique insights into the challenges of photographing such environments.
Lastly, "Empty Quarter: A Photographic Journey to the Heart of the Arabian Desert" showcases George Steinmetz's extraordinary ability to capture the beauty of the Arabian Desert's landscapes and people. This book serves as a valuable resource for photographers seeking to explore and document the unique aspects of this captivating region.
Quotes
Here are five inspiring quotes from George Steinmetz that provide insight into his passion for photography:
"I'm always looking for a new way to see the world and a new way to see the familiar."
"The best way to see the Earth is to fly over it."
"I think there's a lot of beauty in the world, and I think it's important to share it."
"Aerial photography offers a unique perspective that can change the way we perceive our planet."
“The sky is not the limit; it's just the beginning of a new adventure."
Legacy and Influence
George Steinmetz has made a significant impact on the world of photography, particularly in the field of aerial photography. His innovative techniques and passion for capturing the world from above have inspired countless photographers to explore new perspectives and push the boundaries of their craft.
Other notable photographers with similar style are:
Vincent Laforet: Known for his stunning aerial images of cities around the world, Laforet has gained widespread recognition for his unique approach to photography.
Tommy Clarke: A British aerial photographer, Clarke's work often focuses on vibrant, abstract patterns found in nature and man-made landscapes.
Alex MacLean: An American photographer and pilot, MacLean has been capturing aerial images of the Earth's surface for over four decades, with a focus on environmental issues and landscape transformation.
These photographers, like Steinmetz, have made significant contributions to the field of aerial photography and continue to inspire others with their innovative approaches and unique perspectives.
Yann Arthus-Bertrand
"The Earth is art, the photographer is only a witness."
Yann Arthus-Bertrand is a renowned French photographer, filmmaker, and environmentalist known for his breathtaking aerial photographs that capture the beauty and complexity of our planet. With a career spanning over three decades, Arthus-Bertrand has become a leading figure in aerial photography, creating images that inspire and provoke thought about the world we live in and our relationship with nature.
Early Life and Career
Born in Paris on March 13, 1946, Yann Arthus-Bertrand discovered his passion for photography and nature at a young age. He initially pursued a career in film and television production, but in 1981, he decided to focus on photography full-time. He began his career as a nature and wildlife photographer, but his interest in aerial photography was sparked during a hot air balloon ride in Kenya in 1990.
Arthus-Bertrand went on to capture aerial images in over 100 countries, traveling the world and using his photography to showcase the beauty, diversity, and fragility of the Earth. His work has been featured in prestigious publications like National Geographic, Paris Match, and GEO, and he has published numerous books of his photography.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Yann Arthus-Bertrand's photographic style is characterized by his unique perspective and composition, often capturing the Earth from above to reveal its patterns, textures, and colors. He uses a combination of helicopters, hot air balloons, and drones to obtain the perfect vantage point for his images, which often focus on the relationship between humans and their environment.
His photography emphasizes the need for environmental awareness and conservation, as he captures both the beauty of the natural world and the impact of human activities on the landscape. His images have been praised for their ability to evoke emotion and provoke thought, making them both visually stunning and deeply meaningful.
Career Highlights
The publication of his groundbreaking book, "Earth from Above," which features more than 150 stunning aerial photographs and has sold over 3 million copies worldwide.
The release of his critically acclaimed documentary film, "Home," which explores the impact of human activities on the planet and has been viewed by over 600 million people.
The founding of the GoodPlanet Foundation in 2005, a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental education and raising awareness about sustainable development.
Photography Gear
Yann Arthus-Bertrand has used various types of gear throughout his career to capture his incredible aerial photographs. Some of the gear he has used includes:
Helicopters: To get the perfect aerial perspective, Arthus-Bertrand often uses helicopters, which allow him to hover at specific heights and angles for extended periods.
Hot air balloons: For a quieter, more serene aerial experience, he has utilized hot air balloons to capture stunning images from above.
Drones: With advances in drone technology, Arthus-Bertrand has also incorporated drones into his work to obtain unique perspectives and angles.
Photography Books
"Earth from Above, Updated Edition" showcases Yann Arthus-Bertrand's exceptional aerial photography, capturing breathtaking views of our planet. This book serves as an invaluable resource for photographers interested in learning techniques for aerial photography and finding inspiration in the beauty of Earth.
"Turkey from the Air" highlights the unique landscapes and cultural heritage of Turkey, as seen through Yann Arthus-Bertrand's aerial photography. This book offers valuable insights into capturing the essence of a country from a bird's-eye view, providing inspiration for photographers who seek to explore similar subjects.
In "Earth from Space", Yann Arthus-Bertrand takes his aerial photography to new heights, presenting stunning images of Earth captured from space. This book emphasizes the importance of perspective in photography and serves as a valuable resource for photographers looking to broaden their horizons.
"Paris From Above" offers a unique perspective on one of the world's most iconic cities. Yann Arthus-Bertrand's aerial photography captures the architectural wonders and vibrant atmosphere of Paris. This book provides both inspiration and techniques for photographers interested in capturing urban landscapes from above.
Finally, "Earth from Above: 365 Days" is a visual journey through Yann Arthus-Bertrand's aerial photography, offering a daily dose of inspiration. This book highlights the beauty and diversity of our planet, serving as a valuable resource for photographers looking to explore and capture the essence of Earth from unique perspectives.
Quotes
"The Earth is art, the photographer is only a witness."
"We must learn to live more economically, to place limits on our needs and desires, in order to respect the constraints of the planet."
"A good photograph is one that communicates a fact, touches the heart, and leaves the viewer a changed person for having seen it; it is, in a word, effective."
"Taking care of the environment is not an obligation – our environment is our life."
"We must all be aware of the need to change our way of life, to make do with less, to show solidarity, and to fight against inequality and poverty."
Legacy and Influence
Yann Arthus-Bertrand's work has had a profound impact on the world of photography, environmental activism, and beyond. His stunning aerial images have influenced countless photographers and artists, while his dedication to environmental causes has inspired millions to become more aware of the planet's beauty and fragility.
Through his photography, activism, and continued dedication to raising awareness about environmental issues, Yann Arthus-Bertrand has left an indelible mark on both the world of photography and the global consciousness. His work will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of photographers and environmentalists alike.