How did you manage to get such great results with this photograph?
Pre-visualization of what the final result will be helps me a great deal. I worked with my pilots as a team. I am also a pilot so we speak the same language when we’re working together.
To produce the best work for a client, what is the ideal working relationship between you and an art director or designer?
Trust in the vision of both the art director and myself. My favorite art directors and designers allow me to shoot the subject my way. Pre-planning and shooting briefs are important. It’s where we can discuss the message and the intent. Then, I am able to shoot with the message in mind.
How do you balance commercial work and personal work?
I shoot personal work when I am not flying. I have several long-term personal projects that are focused on watersheds and rivers. I use the same helicopter pilots that I hire for commercial work. For personal work, we are a team, but it is focused on my vision rather than the assignment.