For the third year in a row, one of my favorite aerial photos was selected for the 2026 AZDroneFest! My image was chosen as a nominee for Best Photography in the 2026 AZDroneFest nominations on February 21, 2026.

The image is titled Golden Winter Light. Taken during a stunning sunrise in Flagstaff, Arizona just after the first snowstorm of the new year in 2025. I submitted the image for consideration in the event on November 2, 2025.

Golden Winter Light
A golden band of light breaks over emerald trees, leading to a sparkling snow capped mountain in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Days of watching the weather forecast, reviewing airspace authorizations, pre-fight maintenance and preparation, and a site assessment. The planning and preparation to capture this image was worth it. The week I captured the image, I watched the light. The angle, the movement of the sun, all to determine the perfect time to capture the image. The planning and preparation resulted in the line of light, leading toward the mountain over the emerald trees you see in the image.

AZDroneFest History

AZDrone Fest is an aerial cinematography and photography festival/UAS expo historically held at Grand Canyon University. I have attended and volunteered at the event since its inception and always love my experiences at the event. The drone fest continues to grow, year after year. This year should be the biggest yet, with so many valuable demonstrations, educational panels, the highlight of the event. The film screening. The experiences I’ve had at the event and the connections I’ve made have been invaluable the past six (6) years.

The festival is one of the best in the state to recognize the top aerial experts. Award categories include Advertising, Arizona, FPV, First Responders, FPV, Industrial, Landscape, Narrative/Documentary, New Pilot, Showreel, and (my favorite!) Still Photography.  The FPV submittals are always so awe-inspiring seeing the films the pilots put together. My favorites are the beautiful landscapes across the globe and daring flights through famous facilities!

The educational presentations connect attendees with Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) industry specialists in a number of ways. Through panel discussions, lectures by keynote speakers, and workshops for both commercial and recreational drone pilots. It is a great way to stay on top of the ever-changing landscape of the drone industry, with innovative new devices and regulations changing year after year.

Thank Yous

As a photography finalist again this year, I have to send a huge thank you. 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 14, 2026 for the 2026 AZDroneFest nomination ceremony to see who the final winners are!

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!

If you’re interested in working with me as a Part 107 FAA certified, licensed and insured pilot for commercial images, construction images, professional portraits, real-estate images, or videography services, you can learn more at my Drone Services page.