Drones have opened the door to a seemingly infinite range of new angles for amateur photographers, bringing about some incredible shots that, in the past, would've required a helicopter and DSLR. SkyPixel, a community for aerial photographers and videographers, aims to celebrate the best of the best with its annual photo contest. To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Chinese drone maker DJI, a bunch of current favorites have been selected from thousands of submissions to this year's SkyPixel Photo Contest. Let's take a look.
Although it's only been around since 2014, SkyPixel has already attracted more than one million registered users who upload, share and comment on content from amateur and professional drone photographers. Last year's Photo Contest drew more 11,000 entries from 146 different countries.
Though the 2016 competition is still open to submissions, SkyPixel has released its pick of the 10 best entries sent in so far. We've included the top three below, head to the gallery for a look at all of SkyPixel's interim selections. From winding roads to barren winter forests, each image is totally different, showcasing the broad range of angles and images possible with drones.
Infinity Road to Transylvania, Calin Stan
Calin Stan took this photo over the DN1A road in Romania, which leads to Transylvania. Using a DJI Phantom 4, he took three gorgeous pictures of the switchback pass, which he says "only the best drivers dare to conquer."
Ship Wreck at L'Agulhas, Dirke Heydenrych
Taken with a DJI Phantom 3 Advanced, this photo showcases the Cape L'Algulhas headland in South Africa. The photo was captured at sunset on March 25 by Dirkie Heydenrych, who studies photography the Cape Town University of Technology.
Dronie, Manish Mamtani
This Dronie, or a drone-selfie, was taken on a bridge in New Hampshire. Having dressed up in their brightest winter gear, the photographer and his wife lay back in the snow and used a DJI Phantom 3 to take the photo. Sure beats a run of the mill snow angel selfie...
The 2016 SkyPixel Photo Contest is open until the end of December this year, so there is still plenty of time for someone to capture the winning shot. The contest is offering a top prize valued at more than US$5,500 – which includes an Inspire 2, Mavic Pro and Epson Moverio BT-300 smart glasses. Winners will be announced in January next year.
Source: SkyPixel
