For the second year in a row, one of my favorite aerial photos was selected for the AZDroneFest! My image was chosen as a nominee for Best Photography in the 2025 AZDroneFest nominations on March 1st, 2025.

The image is titled Cosmic Sandstone at Sunrise. Taken during a stunning two (2) day off roading and camping trip, we traveled to the border between Arizona and Utah just to capture these images. I had an amazing time hiking these spectacular sandstone landscapes, capturing awe-inspiring images during sunrise and sunset. Whenever I travel, I always make sure to have my drones and cameras on-hand. This image is a standout favorite of mine from the trip and shows exactly why.

AZDroneFest History

AZDrone Fest is an aerial cinematography and photography festival/UAS expo held at Grand Canyon University each year. I have attended and volunteered at the event since its inception. The event continues to grow, year after year and this year may be the biggest yet. I cannot say enough good things about the educational panels and networking opportunities I’ve experienced attending the past five (5) years.

The festival is one of the best in the state to recognize the top aerial experts. Award categories include Advertising, Arizona, First Responders, FPV, Industrial, Landscape, Narrative/Documentary, New Pilot, Showreel, and (my favorite!) Still Photography.  The educational expo connects attendees with Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) industry specialists through panel discussions, lectures by keynote speakers, and workshops for both commercial and recreational drone pilots. 

Thank Yous

As a photography finalist again this year, I have to send a HUGE thank you to the event board; judges; organizers; and all of the loved ones who plan to attend the drone festival. Thank you to everyone that has shown support so far for my aerial image.

Stay Tuned!

Be sure to tune in on March 15, 2025 for the 2025 AZDroneFest nomination ceremony to see who the final winners are!

Want to see the announcement video for the nominees? Check out the video for the Photography category!

If you would like to keep up with my aerial photography work, take a look at the other aerial photography on my website. You can also subscribe to my Youtube channel for new content soon!