A Vietnamese Fisherman Casts His Net
Photographer Trung Pham captured a striking image of a fishing net being sunk deep into a large body of water in Vietnam. The colors of the net stand out boldly against the dark ocean, creating an arresting visual that could not have been achieved from the boat.
Fishing is a major source of income for Vietnam, and the striped catfish trade alone boasts over 500,000 fishermen. The Pangasius catfish, locally known as Basa, is the most common fish found. It is no wonder then that the boat in the picture was equipped with such a large net. It is a reminder the country is dependent also on its sea.
Plane in the Forest
David Kovalenko, an Oregon-based photographer, recently shared an unusual sight on his Instagram account: a plane in the middle of a forest! While the origin of the plane remains unclear, it is obvious that it isn't an old model, leading one to believe that it wasn't an accident but rather, it was intentionally put there.
The sight is all the more surprising as planes are usually found in more populated and open areas. The photo taken by Kovalenko captures the beauty of the American landscape in Oregon. It is a breathtaking shot that showcases the creative eye of the photographer.
A Tale of Feathers and Flight
It was a day like any other when the drone flew above the countryside. To the surprise of both the drone and the duck, their paths crossed in the sky. It was a rare sight, for not many people have seen a duck take flight.
These birds are capable of reaching speeds of up to 50 miles per hour, thanks to their long wings and the ten primary feathers located furthest from the body. These feathers increase the lift of the bird and are essential for flight. Unfortunately, some ducks are born with deformities and have their primary feathers cut off to prevent them from wandering too far.
Story of Chinese Waterfall Diver Di Huanran
Di Huanran is an incredible example of what age is no barrier when it comes to sports. Despite the odds, Huanran has honed his skills in waterfall diving since his twenties, and has proven his prowess in this craft by entering and bagging a second place in a 2017 photo contest. His daring dive off a waterfall in Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang province, is a testament to his skill and bravery. While it may look simple from above, Huanran is an expert at this, and his story is a reminder that age is not a limitation when it comes to sports. Indeed, only a superhuman can do this jump of faith.
An Introspective Look at Our Oceanic Friends
For those who suffer from fear of the ocean, the mere sight of this image may cause a sense of anxiety. But, despite its impressive size, the creature pictured here is far from intimidating. The humpback whale is a gentle giant, whose loud vocalizations are actually less powerful than a jet engine. These mammals are known to follow people out of curiosity, and they have a unique feature: tubercles, a pattern of white bumps and knobs on their heads.
Despite the common misconception, humpback whales pose no real harm to humans, and they are instead a source of beauty, mystery, and fun.
Mystery of the Yellow Scarecrow
Have you ever seen a bright yellow figure standing in a field, usually dressed in human clothes? This is known as a yellow scarecrow, an object that is used to ward off flying animals. According to The Atlantic, these scarecrows have been used to protect properties from evil spirits in other parts of the world.
At first glance, this figure may seem familiar, almost like Big Bird from the iconic children’s television program “Sesame Street”. However, it is highly unlikely that flying animals would be scared of this bright, oversized character. It is a mysterious figure shrouded in its own unique history, with different meanings and interpretations in different cultures.
Waiting to Chomp
In a rare moment of curiosity, a lone lion looked upwards as a drone flew above it. The lion, part of a pride of related females and their offspring along with one to four unrelated males, is a fascinating creature indeed.
This is a stark contrast to the lifespans of other animals, making the lives of lions even more fascinating. Drone owners, with the aid of their high-tech gadgets, can now get a closer look at these majestic creatures. The genius of drone ownership allows us to observe and appreciate the fascinating lives of mighty lions from a safe distance.
Portal To Underworld
Descending into the depths of the Kraken Hole, one is immediately struck by its awe-inspiring presence. Nestled away in the heart of Napa Valley, this artificial spillway was designed to prevent flooding in the event the reservoir becomes too full. From a distance, it looks like a vortex that could swallow up any unsuspecting individual.
The sinkhole reveals a deep, dark pool of water in the area. It is an incredible geological feature that serves an important purpose. Taking a moment to stand in its presence, one can’t help but be in awe of the magnificent power of nature and the human ingenuity that created such an incredible feat.
Davis-Monthan Air Force Base
Stepping onto the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona, one cannot help but be amazed by the sprawling 2,600-acre lot before them. This is the home of the Davis-Monthan Air Force Boneyard, where retired US military aircraft come to rest when they are no longer needed for active service.
The Boneyard is an impressive sight, with hundreds of aircraft of all sizes and varieties filling the horizon. It serves multiple functions, such as storing planes in case they’re needed again, repairing them, and disassembling them for scrap and spare parts. This is an incredible testament to the incredible achievements of military aviation and the technology that powers it.
The Gentle Giant Who Shares And Cares
High in the sky, the drone captures an image of a giant baby-like creature. Its size and manner of being portrayed evoke a sense of mystery and suspense. It is almost as if the creature is watching your every move, waiting for you to make a mistake before pouncing. This piece of art is especially eerie, due to the fact that it was crafted by a notorious criminal.
From the air, you can feel the creature's gaze and sense the danger that it may present. The use of drone photography to craft this piece of art is a testament to its eerie power.
Exploring the Unusual
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to experience a cruise liner without ever leaving dry land? Well, you don't have to imagine any longer! Located in Hung Hom, Kowloon, is the unique Whampoa Cruise Mall, a shopping and entertainment complex shaped like a grand cruise liner.
This luxurious complex pays homage to the area's past as a dockyard and is quickly becoming a must-see attraction for visitors to the area. Inside, shoppers can find a wonderful selection of international and local fashion and lifestyle brands, as well as a plethora of entertainment options, such as karaoke rooms, a mini golf course, and a 4D theater.
Cheetah Says Hi
The owner of a drone had no chance of keeping up with the speed of a cheetah when they got too close, resulting in the drone being punched out of the air. Cheetahs are renowned for their ability to move quickly, and their bodies are designed for speed.
Unfortunately, even with their incredible speed, cheetahs are listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to their dwindling population, which is likely caused by hunting or lack of food sources. This highlights the need for us to take action to protect and conserve these magnificent creatures before their population declines further.
Dangers of Overloaded Truck
Trucks that are overly laden with cargo can lead to hazardous conditions on the roads. Drivers of such vehicles face the risk of being overworked and underpaid, while the cargo they carry may be damaged due to the extra weight. To avoid such calamities, truck drivers should be trained to properly and safely load their trucks and the vehicles should be inspected regularly.
Companies must also take extra precautions to ensure that their trucks do not become overloaded, as this is a very serious issue. Through proper training and regular inspections, we can all work together to create a safer environment on the roads.
A Rumor of Feline Haven
The notion of a Cat Island is enough to fascinate and entice, yet the truth is that it is nothing more than a rumor created by photo and story manipulation. Located in the Bahamas, Cat Island is a district with a population of 1,522 people, yet no reports of an abundance of cats living there.
We can only imagine what it would be like to be surrounded by purring creatures in this mythical land. Unfortunately, the truth is far from the fantasy of a haven for cats, but the dream of such a place remains alive in our hearts.
Awe-Inspiring Engineering
In 2005, the Viennese art group Gelitin created an impressive feat of engineering that was sure to leave its mark on the art world forever. Constructed on the side of a mountain, the enormous pink rabbit was estimated to be 200ft long and 20ft high on its sides. Made from soft synthetic fur, its entrails were visible from the outside, giving it an eerie and otherworldly appearance. Appropriately named "Hase," the German translation of hare, the sculpture was often referred to as the "Pink Rabbit."
Everyone expected this incredible piece to last until 2025, but it had almost entirely decomposed by 2016.
Unveiling the Mystery of the Aquatic Beast
The thriller movie "Jaws" is one of the most successful of its kind, and it’s not hard to understand why; with up to 3,000 teeth in their lifetime, sharks are certainly a cause of fear in many people. However, one species of shark, the hammerhead, is nothing to be afraid of.
This hammer-shaped structure is said to heighten the animal’s sensory perception, enabling it to detect prey more easily. Although the movie may have instilled fear in many viewers, the species of shark depicted in the movie should not be feared. Instead, they should be appreciated for their fascinating anatomy and their specialized ability to detect prey.
A Miraculous Escape
On August 16, 2020, Pegasus Airlines Flight 2193 flew from Izmir in Turkey, to Trabzon City in the Black Sea. Unfortunately, the Airbus A-320 skidded off the runway after landing and came to rest on a muddy slope. Miraculously, no one was seriously injured, but this incident served as a reminder of the importance of safety and security in the industry.
Luckily, the aircraft didn’t nose-dive directly into the body of water, and the 162 passengers recovered from minor inconveniences. Everyone, including the personnel, was evacuated from the vehicle immediately. This drone shot is a reminder of that unfortunate event but still teaches a lot about accidents.
Florian Ledoux's Award-Winning Drone Photography
Few can capture nature's breathtaking beauty like Florian Ledoux. In 2018, his talent was recognized at the Drone Photography Awards, where he won the coveted title of Photo Of The Year, and he was also named Drone Photographer Of The Year at the Siena International Photography Awards.
The polar ice caps are an essential part of our planet, and Ledoux is devoted to capturing their beauty. They play a vital role in moderating global temperatures and providing a habitat for wild animals, such as the cuddly bear visible in his award-winning image. With Ledoux's stunning photos, we can appreciate the beauty of these magnificent places before they disappear.
Exploring the Majestic Wonders of Morrison's Quarry
Tucked away in the countryside of Canada lies a remarkable natural wonder, Morrison’s Quarry. Boasting a stunning landscape, this lake is surrounded by a majestic limestone cliff, offering visitors a unique and breathtaking experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities year-round, including swimming, fishing, picnicking, and ice skating.
While it is a popular spot for divers, it is not recommended for those with a fear of heights. Nature photographers will be especially delighted by this picturesque location, with its limestone cliffs and abundance of wildlife. Whether you are looking for a peaceful day outdoors or a breathtaking photo opportunity, it's an ideal destination to explore the wonders of nature.
Crocodiles Are Amazing (From Afar)
One of the best things about drone photography is that it enables people to get a closer look at things they wouldn't usually get close to. Crocodiles, as depicted in this stunning drone photo, are one of many examples. Even though they're utterly scary, the largest reptiles on earth are fascinating animals.
These cold-blooded predators do have the distinctive ability to produce tears, hence the expression "crocodile tears." Interestingly, they are not able to chew food, which is probably the reason why they cry! And according to Newsweek, they also have the strange habit of swallowing rocks to improve digestion.
A Fire in the Neighborhood
The suburbs: if there's a place where nothing ever goes wrong, it's got to be here, right? Well, the suburbs are usually relatively safe, but bad things happen in the city outskirts too. And when they do, they tend to be especially shocking. This residential explosion, captured by an everyday drone photographer's lenses, proves our point.
Such a mess could have only been caused by a major short-circuit issue or downright criminal activity. Surprisingly, though, the overwhelming number one source of house fires is unattended cooking. That's probably why some people are so paranoid about leaving—and not leaving—the oven on.
Humpback Whale vs. Crocodile
"Humpback Whale vs. Crocodile" sounds like an excellent title for an upcoming Syfy channel movie. Sadly, we don't think any crocodile would ever stand a chance against a mighty humpback whale. After all, this fantastic drone photo illustrates the dramatic difference in size between the two animals quite well.
Even though, as we've learned before, crocodiles are the largest reptile on the planet, they look like the tiniest of lizards compared to humpback whales! This massive sea mammal can grow up to 60 feet long, live up to 90 years old, and complete migrations of more than 5,000 miles.
A Vision of War
Syria's ancient culture gave us things as delicious as the kibbeh and as fascinating as the sword dance. However, the Arab nation has been engulfed in a brutal civil war since 2011. It has mostly subsided, but there are still occasional flare-ups in 2023, and it has undoubtedly taken its toll on more than just Syria's cultural landscape.
This drone photo shows that the war's events altered Syria's topography. Regrettably, a country once one of the most desirable tourist destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean now looks like this. It's yet another brutal testament to the importance of peace and political stability.
Redefining Private Property
When drones first became commercially available, many people wondered if we should do something about issues related to people's privacy. Unfortunately, those people are yet to be heard. According to Denha Law, flying a drone over private property is perfectly legal as long as such a drone doesn't land there.
Accustomed to the privacy and tranquility of her swimming pool, the woman in the photo isn't happy about being inadvertently featured in a stranger's drone footage. And can you blame her? According to Aero Corner, damaging drones is illegal even if they're flying over private property, which doesn't consider both sides of the story.
Aliens? No, Gangsters!
Sorry History Channel, but this drone photo of a 100-foot statue isn't (further) proof that aliens exist. The reality, shocking as it is, is even more improbable. This Scottish sculpture (which has since been removed) was made by the infamous Jimmy Boyle, a convicted gangster who became an artist and novelist after changing his ways.
Inspired by the art therapist Joyce Laing while still in prison, Boyle quit his days as a '60s Glasgow gangster to focus on writing and sculpting. While his sculptures were undoubtedly ambitious, Boyle is best known for his novels. His autobiography "A Sense of Freedom" was even turned into a film.
Chinese Traffic Jam
This Chinese expressway has a staggering 50 lanes, but more is needed to move traffic during rush hour. Fortunately, air traffic in China is better than land traffic, meaning drones can still roam freely to snap pictures like this. So, is it time for China to halt car production and sales?
With a population of 1.4 billion, China has a reported 193 million vehicles. That's 1.9 times more than the previous decade. But before pointing a finger at China, remember that there are 268 million vehicles in the United States, which has a population of just 329 million.
A Fall From Grace
We regret to inform you that decay is the world's natural order. Old people don't get younger, the dead don't go back to living, and neglect doesn't lead to anything new. This drone photo of the abandoned Pontiac Silverdome stadium is another victory lap for decay, that terrible, all-consuming force.
Once a glorious arena that hosted events as magnificent as the Super Bowl, the 1994 FIFA World Cup, and even a 1975 Elvis Presley concert, the Pontiac Silverdome was consumed by decay and looked like this. In 2019, Amazon announced its plans to turn the site into a new distribution center.
New Lenses but the Same Ancient Magnificence
It's funny how the Pontiac Silverdome couldn't resist for more than a few decades, but the mighty Pyramids of Giza in Egypt have retained their glory for over 4,500 years. The ultimate anti-aging monument, the Pyramids of Giza, are the last remaining of the world's seven ancient wonders.
Even though the Pyramids have been there for a long time, drones are a relatively new invention. This drone photo offers a different perspective of the iconic Egyptian landmark and is a sight to behold. Contrary to popular opinion, experts believe that the Pyramids were built by paid workers, not slaves.
Let's Talk About… Urban Planning?
Urban planning isn't the kind of subject that usually gets people excited. Still, this drone photo of the city of Barcelona, in Spain, shows plenty to be excited about when it comes to a city's setup and design. Barcelona looks like this thanks to the successful Eixample Plan, a model which introduced "a new social mix into deprived neighborhoods."
The Eixample Plan was a 19th-century creation revolutionizing Barcelona's looks, safety, and inclusivity. Unlike other successful examples of urban planning, such as Brasilia, in Brazil, Barcelona has been there since Roman times! Nowadays, it's considered one of Europe's top touristic destinations.
When Nature's the Best Model
Before photography was invented, important people posed for hours so artists could paint a portrait of them. The camera revolutionized the notion of a portrait by allowing people to get a picture of themselves in a fraction of a second. Later on, mobile computation (i.e., smartphones) ensured everybody could always carry a camera in their pocket.
Drones, of course, changed the landscape of photography yet again. Because of their wide range, they can snap portraits of the most beautiful model of all: nature. If this stunning photo of the sunset over a group of mountain climbers doesn't prove our point, we guess nothing will.
An Airview of the French Coast
Oh, magnific France! The land of good cheese, wine, art, and philosophical existentialism, France looks even more beautiful when seen from above. This particular drone photo was captured on the coast of Pornichet, and don't you wish you could bathe in these blue waters and catch some sun in one of those yachts?
A commune in Western France, Pornichet is one of the many dreamy coastal towns of the world-famous Côte d'Amour (which translates as The Coast of Love) and sits just a few miles off Saint-Nazare. It's no coincidence that France is the world's most visited country, with 89 million annual tourists.
The Piraeus Harbor
The Piraeus harbor, in Greece, is the fifth busiest passenger port in Europe and the perfect place to land on some solid ground while enjoying a cruise-ship vacation. This summery drone photo also reveals part of the city that gave the harbor its name; remarkably, it's been sitting there since the 26th century BC!
Like most Greek things, the booming city of Piraeus has a history that dates back to prehistoric times. It was fortified by Hippias, Athen's final tyrant, improved by the Athenian reformer Cleisthenes and refortified by the great general Themistocles. Today, it's home to roughly 500,000 people.
Caribbean Mountains—Yes, Caribbean Mountains!
When one hears the word "Caribe," pictures of stunning white-sand beaches with warm, clear water come to mind. But things are a bit different in the fascinating Caribbean country of Haiti. Haiti is the most mountainous country in the region, boasting a few cool-looking ridges like the one in the photo. But that's not all.
Haiti was the first independent Black republic in the world and the first nation in the Western hemisphere to ban slavery. Haiti is also embroiled in rich folklore traditions, rotating primarily around voodoo—which is recognized as an official religion in the country. It was discovered in 1492 by Christopher Colombus.
Welcome to Arequipa!
Many miles below the Caribe (and quite a bit to the left if we're being honest) sits the Latin-American country of Peru. While Peru is a nation torn by human rights abuses and political corruption, things may look a bit more peaceful when seen from above. Someone snapped this beautiful drone photo at the Plaza de Armas de Arequipa.
In Latin America, Plaza de Armas (translated as Weapons Square) is the name given to the main squares of cities. This one belongs to Arequipa, where more than one million people reside. Arequipa's historic center was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.
Portugal Drone Footage
One of Europe's Westernmost countries, Portugal boasts remarkable natural diversity. From the mountainous cities in the North and the desert-like aridness of Alentejo to the glowing beaches of the Algarve in the South, there's a little bit of everything to see in Spain's less-known neighbor. Portugal's diversity is even more extended if we account for Madeira, one of its two autonomous regions.
Even though Madeira—where someone captured this breathtaking drone photo—is technically a part of Europe, it's perhaps more similar to Morocco than to mainland Portugal. Filled with banana trees and blessed with moderately warm weather year-long, it makes for a must-visit archipelago.
Snowy Paradise
A postcard from paradise doesn't need to come from somewhere warm. This stunning drone photo proves that the adjective "paradisiac" can fit as easily in a snowy mountain as it does on a beautiful beach. So, instead of sipping Piña Coladas by the water, why don't you enjoy some morning coffee in the French Alps?
More than just snowy mountains and cozy bungalows, the French Alps offer many other attractions, including lavish ski courses for all winter sports fans. There are also underground tunnels, Middle-Age forts, and dreamy railway trains. The Alps cover an area of more than 115,000 square miles.
Głogów, a Gem Waiting to Be Discovered
The bucket lists of many tourists feature cities like Paris, New York, Rio de Janeiro, Tokyo, and Cairo. Sadly, few include the little-known Polish city of Głogów. It's not surprising: even though it was first established in the 10th century, Głogów is home to a mere 65,000 people and was almost destroyed during World War II.
However, it's hard to argue that this drone photo of Głogów at night makes it compelling to buy a plane ticket to the Zielona Gora Airport and explore what the city offers. For now, it's best known for its ancient castle and exciting jazz festival.
Another Great European City
Surely more recognizable than Głogów (after all, it's the capital of Slovenia), Ljubljana is a must-visit city for all people who enjoy beautiful European-style historical centers. Divided by waterways filled with lovely cafés, bars, and historical monuments, Ljubljana deserves more credit than it currently gets.
A cultural hub in Eastern Europe, Ljubljana is known for its medieval castle, its centuries-old philharmonic orchestra, and its iconic dragon banner. The mood is amazing too, as Ljubljana seemingly combines the best a big city has to offer with a charming small-town vibe that's hard to resist. It's home to less than 300,000 people.
Why Do People Love Sunsets?
Once in a while, even drones need to land and stop to watch the sunset. The sunset in the picture is so naturally beautiful that even the drone operator decided it was time to rest. This begs the question, though: why do people love sunsets so much? And why can't we get enough of them?
According to psychology, the exposition to sunsets provides a desirable stress-relieving effect. Culturally, sunsets are traditionally interpreted as symbols of peace, harmony, and fresh starts. Anthropologically, sunsets represent the final moment of safety before the night, which used to pose many lurking dangers to men.
Sweet, Sweet California
California is home to the world's biggest movie stars, the famous Hollywood sign, and some of the most beautiful national parks and trails one can find in the United States. The inspiration behind countless songs, the sunny state of California looks even prettier when seen from above, especially if a drone happens to be passing by Newport Beach.
Yet another milestone of California, Newport Beach is one of the most famous recreational beaches in the United States and draws in up to 100,000 tourists daily. Fortunately, Newport's iconic harbor doesn't look so crowded in this breathtaking sunset-time drone photo.
Corniglia, a Well-Kept Italian Secret
There is only one sun, but there are many, many different sunsets. While they are all beautiful in their own way, they're also incredibly different. From crowded Newport Beach, we move on to Corniglia, a tiny hamlet in the Italian commune of Vernazza that's home to a mere 150 people.
Those lucky 150 Italians do get to enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets around, though. Corniglia is still not a tourist landmark quite like the Colosseum or the Tower of Pisa, but it does have a unique charm to it. It was mentioned in Jennifer Egan's novel "The Invisible Circus."
Mountain Sunset
Mountain sunsets are underrated, and so are mountains. They cover one-fifth of the world's land surface and are home to an estimated one-tenth of the world's population. Out of all countries, a hefty 75% have mountains. They are also highly fertile, as 80% of the world's freshwater originates in mountains.
Mountains can be formed due to the collision of tectonic plates (fold mountains), volcanic activity (volcanic mountains), and due to the vertical displacement of large land areas (block mountains). Either way, they all look stunning at sunset, especially if you can fly over them with a drone to get a bird's eye view.
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Prienai is a charming city in Lithuania surrounded by lush forests and grasslands. The region is mainly known for the beautiful Paukščiai mound, but there are plenty of other astonishing secrets in Prienai's outskirts. One of the best ways to explore the area, it seems, is to use a drone to uncover never-seen-before secrets.
Imagine how surprised the drone photographer behind this picture was when he or she realized that these three small lakes in the forest of Prineai made a perfect emoji. That's something people would never be able to see from the ground, and that's why drones are excellent.
The Land of the Volcanoes
Iceland is another fantastic place to take a drone. The small European nation is known for its friendly population, charming towns, and massive collection of active and non-active volcanoes. Luckily, out of Iceland's estimated 130 volcanoes, only 18 erupted since the island first became inhabited (around 871 AD).
The last time one Icelandic volcano decided to say hello, though, it made headlines all over the world. In 2010, the unpronounceable Eyjafjallajökull ice cap erupted. It didn't affect the local population in any dangerous way, but it did disrupt air travel all over western Europe because of the endless release of fumes.
Good Drivers & Bad Drivers
This drone photo of a parking lot in the United Kingdom is undoubtedly good for the ego of a British driver. There's not one vehicle out of line, and everything works in classical British fashion. But are the British good drivers? The question is tricky, and answering it even more so…
While the United Kingdom has a very low level of road fatalities, more than 70% of British people lack confidence in other drivers. In 2019, The Independent even published a piece bluntly titled "The British are a nation of bad drivers," which sounds just too harsh if you ask us.
Hey Kitty, Kitty!
Only a drone could have been used to capture such a photo of a lion. This close-up picture of a curious lion seems to show a different, kinder side of a magnificent animal most people wouldn't dare look at straight in the eyes. Everybody knows lions are amazing, but how amazing?
Seen as a worldwide symbol of strength, lions live in groups of roughly 15 animals which are called prides. Even though they're fierce predators and their roar can be heard 10 miles away, lions are surprisingly lazy and can spend up to 21 hours per day resting and sleeping.
Lake Washo
This is a drone photo of the largest alpine lake in North America. Lake Tahoe divides California and Nevada but doesn't divide opinions when it comes to its beauty. Formed roughly two million years ago, it's a beauty regardless of the angle but looks even more glorious from above.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in the United States, Lake Tahoe is a gift that keeps giving: it's used for sports in the winter and for bathing and relaxation during the summer. Its name derives from the Washo word for "lake." Washo is an endangered Native American language spoken by the Washo tribe.
The Power of the Wind
What is it that makes this photo of a Romanian wind farm such a breathtaking sign? It's not just the fact that it's beautiful, but also what it represents. In a moment when it's so important to watch out for our planet, it's relaxing to know there's a place in Europe where more than 200 wind turbines are producing green energy.
Humans have relied on the power of wind at least since 2000 BC by using mills. Wind turbines, however, are a modern-day invention and highly complex machines. Most wind turbines are about as tall as the Statue of Liberty.
Consumed by Nature
It's funny how the world works. A drone photographer with a good eye found this abandoned ship in the middle of the sea even though it can be hard to spot due to all of the vegetation. At one point, the ship was a sight of degradation, but now, it's booming with life and covered in lush trees.
It goes to show that everything that "dies" doesn't really go away: it simply becomes part of nature, consumed by its vegetal and animal species. Decomposing isn't the process of disappearing, but rather of being broken down into simpler organic and inorganic matter.
San Diego at Sunset
When people think of the United States, visions of large cars, famous entertainers, and big hamburgers come to mind. But the Land of the Free lacks no natural beauty too. This drone photo of one of La Jolla's stretches of beach in San Diego is but one example of all the American landscape has to offer.
One of downtown San Diego's must-visit locations, La Jolla, is a seaside area of over seven miles home to roughly 46,000 lucky residents. It's known for its steep over-the-sea hills, booming wildlife, and fascinating geology. Have you noticed it's another great spot to watch the sunset?
An Indonesian Retreat
Out of all of Indonesia's thousands of islands, the tourist-friendly island of Bali has got to be one of the most beautiful. Far away from the booming beach cities of Denpasar and Uluwatu, Ubud is an irresistible retreat for all visitors who fly to Bali in search of silence and relaxation.
This aerial photo of a swimming pool in Ubud is but a small sample of everything Indonesia's most famous island has to offer. But Bali isn't just about glowing beaches and sipping coconuts by the water: it's also filled with rich cultural traditions, mainly inspired by Hinduism, the island's main religion.
A Tour Through South Portugal
This drone photo of a beach in Alvor, Portimão (one of the main cities in South Portugal) would look great on a postcard, don't you think so? Even though it's a small country, Portugal has much to offer tourists who enjoy hiking, spending time at the beach, and surfing—particularly in the South.
Near Portimão, tourists can find many beaches with warm water and perfect white sand. A little bit up, in Nazaré, they can surf Europe's biggest waves. And a little bit to the right, they can enjoy the many charms of the arid region of Alentejo, with its many irresistible culinary treats.
World City
Long before drones were around, aerial photos of New York City were already a classic. Used in the opening of countless moves, this picture is recognizable even to people who have never set foot in the world's most famous city. Glorious NYC is home to more than eight million people and has been sitting there for about 400 years.
Rightfully called a "melting pot," New York City is as close as we have to the capital of the world. More than 800 different languages are spoken in the Big Apple, which is also known for sites as iconic as Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, Fifth Avenue, and Central Park.
The Elemental Philippines
The four main elements are earth, water, wind, and fire, and the Philippines has them all in abundance. Earth is represented by the country's vast forests, water is represented by the ocean that surrounds its many islands, the wind is symbolized by its rich topology, and fire comes from the nation's many volcanoes.
As if the natural beauty of the Philippines wasn't enough to justify a visit, the Asian country is also known for its highly amicable population. According to 12Go, the locals have imported some cool traditions from the United States, as they're said to be colossal shopping and basketball lovers!
Tear-Drop Island
Even though there are no shopping malls or basketball courts in the photo, the Philippines' Guyam Island is a popular destination for people who enjoy spending some time at about 250 feet of land lost in the middle of the ocean. Guyam Island is known for its tear-drop shape, but don't worry: it's a tear of joy, not sadness!
For tourists who enjoy island hopping (the practice of traveling from one small island to another), the Philippines are undoubtedly worth visiting. Out of the many hopping-worthy locations in the country, Guyam Island is one of the best and most famous.
An American Bargain
Well, why would anyone want to live in Alaska, a state that's home to 100,000 glaciers and where summer is still cold and cloudy? We guess this breathtaking drone photo of Fairbanks woods kind of answers the question. A place unlike any other in the United States, Alaska was once a part of Russia.
In the 19th century, though, the United States paid $7.2 million to the Russians to acquire the whole territory of Alaska. At less than two cents per acre, Alaska was probably one of the best deals the Americans ever made. Talk about a bargain!
Santorini, Greece's Crown Jewel
Santorini, in Greece, is the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history (the Minoan eruption), but now is best known for its constant outbursts of tourists. Even though Santorini is hardly a well-kept secret anymore, it's impossible to blame anyone for choosing the obvious and booking a vacation to this beautiful place.
This drone photo of Santorini at dusk makes us want to drop everything, catch the next flight to Greece, and explore its seaside streets filled with charming white houses. A place of rich historical tradition, Santorini has everything from medieval forts to Byzantine Empire churches.
Chinese Rice Terraces
Rice is the kind of food that works better in the company of some tasty protein or curry sauce than on its own. But while having only rice on a plate can be kind of bland, nothing is boring about the place where rice is made, especially if we're talking about Chinese rice.
This award-winning drone photo is a beautiful display of the amazing colors of a Chinese rice terrace. There are many unforgettable rice terraces to see in the country, but the Yuanyang, Jiabang, Longji, Yunhe, and Ziquejie rice terraces are listed by China Highlights as the five best.
The Stuff of Fairytales
Are fairytales real? Gazing at this breathtaking aerial photo of Mont-Saint-Michel in France, one is tempted to believe they are. This tidal island in Normandy is known for its garrison, which was once used as a prison. A reported 29 people live in Mont-Saint-Michel, according to the 2019 census.
Many more, however, come from abroad and other sites in France to experience what it's like to be "trapped" inside a fairytale scenario. Quite appropriately, legend states that the island was first inhabited because Saint Aubert had a vision in which the archangel Michael instructed him to set up a monastery there.
Two Cows and Their Shadows
Cows: some people love them, others love to eat them, and others praise them religiously. Whatever the angle, there is nothing not to love about this very special animal. According to World Animal Protection, cows are very social and sensitive, and can even remember which people have—or have not—been kind to them.
Even though cows are constantly exploited by humans, they are vegetarians and enjoy chilling for a cool ten hours per day. Like this drone photo of two cows and their shadows, cows live on the threshold of light and darkness, or peaceful farm life and brutal mass slaughtering.
Time for a Mud Bath!
This well-framed drone photo shows a group of hippos enjoying a mud bath. Surprisingly, hippos love spending time in the mud for the same reason some humans do: to protect their skin from drying out under the blazing sun; think of it as a natural version of sunscreen!
In addition to being big fans of 100%-natural cosmetics, hippos are known for being very protective and active at night. They get to enjoy the best life, too, not only because of their spa-like activities but also because they eat about 77 pounds of food and sleep a relaxing 16 hours daily!
A Photographer's Day at the Beach
The French professional photographer Romain Gaillard is one of the country's most reputable. Perhaps best known for his portraits of top French politics, such as Emmanual Macron, Alexis Corbière, and Nadine Morano, Gaillard has quite an impressive portfolio!
Nevertheless, one of his best photos was captured with a drone during an afternoon he spent at the beach with his children. He had the idea of using the sand as a piece of paper and made a funny drawing of a man struggling to avoid a shark's bite. Most people enjoy sunbathing and swimming while at the beach, but photographers do see the world differently.
The Ocean as a Dress
According to a study by The Knot, weddings cost an average of $266 per guest, which adds up to a hefty $28K per ceremony. Getting hitched is quite pricey, so it's only understandable that people try to save money wherever they can. However, is it a good idea to go for a low-budget wedding photographer?
Considering wedding-day memories are supposed to last forever, we don't think so. Sometimes, paying extra for a talented wedding photographer is worth it, especially if they know how to work with a drone. Have you ever seen a more stunning (and well-thought) photo of a bride?
Formerly Known as a Desert
As recently as 2005, the famous Arab city of Dubai looked like a modest set of buildings on top of the sand; it was pretty much a small desert town. Nowadays, there is nothing desert-like about one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Middle East, resulting from an investment of roughly $400 billion made by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government.
The goal of the UAE government was to turn Dubai into a worldwide tourist attraction and financial center, and this beautiful drone photo shows they're on the right path. The city is best known for landmarks as iconic as Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain.