James Knight – High Flying Aerial Photographer, Sydney

James Knight is a 29 year old Aerial Photographer based on the Northern Beaches in Sydney, Australia. In his spare time you can find him traveling in his self-renovated camper van with his  partner around some of New South Wales finest beaches. He’s an avid surfer and never too far away from the ocean, and as an established aerial photographer showcases a stunning array of images of the ocean below. We interviewed James to find out more about what makes him tick. All photographs used by permission.

What got you interested in drone photography/video?

I’ve always had the fascination with flight and with my father being a photographer it all just came together. After my first flight I was hooked. The different perspectives the drone gives you instantly drew me in.

What steps did you take to become an accomplished drone pilot and photographer?

Hours of practice!! It also helps with my partner being on side helping me and finding new locations. I’ve also surrounded myself with a lot of other drone pilots/photographers to get more of an insight into the industry. We all help each other out and share our tips, tricks and destinations.

What do you fly, and what do you love about it?

I fly the DJI Phantom 4 Pro. I love that it’s stable, reliable and has a long lasting battery. It also has a much better camera then most other sub 2kg drones. You can also buy a drone accessory backpack which makes it perfect to move around with due to its size, especially when you’re going on hikes or exploring.

What would be your next drone purchase? Why?

The Inspire 2, without a doubt. Who else wouldn’t want that bad boy. Bit on the larger size, but will take an awesome shot and epic videos. Perfect for my trip around Australia.

What ticks your box when it comes to capturing a great aerial moment?

That early morning glow. It’s seriously the golden hour, from a top down perspective it brings out colours that you don’t normally see from standing on the ground. Everything becomes much clearer. It’s all about timing, whether shooting surfers or wildlife.

What has been your best or favourite drone photo shoot?

Shooting inflatables for Sunnylife Australia. Getting up and travelling to remote beaches, shooting early mornings with not a soul in sight. You can’t get much better than that.

On your website, you say you love to travel and shoot the globe. Is there one bucket list location you’d love to have the chance to shoot?

Iceland. Top of the bucket list. I’ve already been looking into flights and it’s definitely on the cards for the near future. Iceland feels like you’re going back in time with its untouched lands, and prehistoric looking landscapes. I’ve seen some awesome photos around Iceland and cannot wait.

How do you see the drone technology expanding or changing in the next 5 years?

Smaller, faster, lighter and better cameras. It can only go up. Pardon the pun.

The next 20 years?

I dare say we’ll be travelling to work in them. With technology evolving at the rate it is, we wouldn’t even be able to begin to imagine the possibilities.

Where can readers find out more about what you do?

I update my Instagram daily. (@aero.aus) Feel free to drop me a DM with any questions. You can also check out my website..

About Jim Knight

Jim Knight is an Aerial Photographer based on the Northern Beaches in Sydney, Australia. Capturing one of a kind photos, one flight at a time.