WallMag: What led you to first getting started in aerial photography? How would you describe the work you do?

Initially, I was just doing phone photography as a hobby. I developed a liking for patterns n textures. However, they looked more interesting to me from above. That's when I gave a thought about aerial photography.

Basically, I am a travel photographer now, and seeing places from a bird's eye perspective gives you a different feeling altogether. It surprises you in many ways. All I want is to show people a different view of a place which is already well known to them.

WallMag: How long have you been shooting through drones? Do you remember what it was like your first time shooting from the air?

I have been doing this for three years now but, I can never forget my first takeoff and the feeling I had then. With zero experience and little nervousness, I just took it off, and once it was in the air, I was ecstatic!

WallMag: How do you choose your subjects?

Talking about choosing my subjects to photograph, whenever I come across something interesting while I am on the go, I try and frame the same with my drone. I even scout locations beforehand and shoot as planned.

I am happy to share with you that my work has been featured on prominent platforms like Natgeo, Google, Oneplus, and so on. I am also part of Team Pixel and was invited, for the launch of Pixel 3, Pixel 3a, along with the privilege of getting their devices as a content creator.

WallMag: How would you define your photography style?

My style of photography revolves around patterns and textures mostly. Also, I like to have frames with light and shadows with eye-catching subjects. Not to forget, the mainstream golden hour captures.

WallMag: Can you talk us through the process of capturing your images? what preparation or equipment is involved in the photography of this type, and how much planning goes into each project? Can you tell us about your gear and drone setup?

The drone model that I own is DJI Phantom 4 Pro+. This is heavier equipment when compared to other models but, the advantage is that it's robust with high wind velocity, has got 30 minimum of flight time, and 7kms of control range. Having these features, the control range I have touched to date is about 3kms. Planning my frames solely depends on the places I visit. Scouting locations is what I do before taking off my equipment. Keeping your batteries charged and not forgetting the memory card are the other key aspects.

One of my most challenging shots was when I was capturing the lake Pulicat. I had already drained my batteries with a few clicks, and just when I brought my drone back, a couple of fishermen appeared out of nowhere at all set for fishing. With just 30 percent of charge left (which is highly unsuitable for a flight) I took it off intending to frame the fishnet thrown into the water by the men. It surely was a task to click that at the very first go and bring my drone back without having it land and drown in the water. Happy that I was successful.

WallMag: As a photographer, how far do you think participating in awards/contests is important for a photography career?

Participating in contests always helps you to validate your position among the rest. It gives us a chance to take a look at other's work and learn a thing or two from them. Not just that, but any artist gets motivated and thrives to perform better whenever they are being recognized for their work. It works as a confidence booster.

Shadow cyclists!

I had always wanted to shoot this bridge from above. One fine weekend, I went to the place and took off my drone. To my dismay, it wasn't as interesting as I had imagined. Did think of getting my drone back and leaving. But, just as I thought, there appeared and a group of cyclists. And then, I began to compose my shot. Waited for the fast-moving cyclists, and as planned, they entered my frame. I managed to capture them before they could leave, and I was very happy with how it turned out in the end. That moment, I was so happy and will remain an unforgettable experience.

I use a Canon 5d mark4 with 24-70mm and 70-200mm lens. And the drone which I'm using is DJI Phantom 4 pro+.

WallMag: Are there any specific locations you would like to photograph from the air, that you haven’t had the chance to visit yet?

If given a chance, I wouldn't mind visiting all the places on the globe. Every place has it's own beauty that should be witnessed and experienced. So, nothing specific. I would capture everything that catches my attention.

WallMag: Can you tell us about your editing process as well as what some of your favorite apps are?

I use Adobe Lightroom, Snapseed to edit my pictures, and Adobe Premiere Pro to edit my videos with no particular process being followed.

WallMag: What would you say to the newbie photographers who want to build a career in photography in one line?

Consistency is the key. Don't stop shooting and don't pay heed to destructive criticism and practice with what's in hand.

WallMag: What keeps you motivated?

Nature and its beauty keeps me motivated and excites me to take out my equipment each time.

WallMag: In your opinion what will drones or drone technology look like in the future?

There's been a lot of development every day, and maybe, they might just come up with a waterproof drone, and we can still fly it without any interference like now.

WallMag: Could you please describe your experience of participating in WallMag Wildlife Photography Awards 2020 and marking your presence as top 1st winner? What tips would you like to give to upcoming participants?

Participation in Wallmag Photography Contest for Wildlife Category was a very different kind of experience. I was overwhelmed with the results knowing I had bagged first place with a drone photograph! To all the upcoming participants, create good content and never doubt to showcase your work.

You can follow Raj Mohan on Instagram to stay updated with his work.

You can also have a look at his Winning Photography Submission at WallMag Wildlife Photography Awards 2020.