With a drone as his canvas and the world as his palette, Nick Bennett paints breathtaking aerial masterpieces. Discover the story behind the lens as we dive into the world of Tailwinds Aerial Media.
Get to Know Nick Bennett of Tailwinds Aerial Media
Tailwinds is proudly owned and operated by self-confessed beach bum and camera geek Nick Bennett. Who has been an avid photographer for nearly 20 years! Settling in Perth after first laying eyes on the Indian Ocean and falling in love with the blue beauty. After having travelled to all corners of world and across Australia, he knew Western Australia was home. Nick’s photography masterpieces highlight the beautiful people, stunning landscapes and best beaches anywhere on the planet right here in WA.
Surfers Circle
When asked about his favourite image he’s captured so far in his career, Nick first mentioned ‘Surfers Circle’. The shot was taken at Ocean Reef Marina on Perth’s northern Coastline with an important message behind it. The circle was staged by local surfers in the area to raise awareness of three local surf breaks being lost due to the development of the Marina. Taking to the water to show their solidarity and reinforce the promise given to them by local government for an artificial reef to be developed. The image is continuingly used by the group as they fight the local government. Nick says it was a privilege to be involved and to support the cause.
Bali Photography
Capturing images from above with a drone allows Nick to experiment with light and subject matter from new heights. Getting angles and seeing things that you normally wouldn’t be able to with on the ground photography. His recent images from Bali show this off perfectly! Captured from the centre of an island during sunrise, the rice terraces are bathed in morning mist with an air of peace.
Cottesloe Beach Photography
We also can’t go past this image! The perfect timing of the boy jumping off the pylon at Cottesloe Beach with the Tea House in the background is incredible. This image is so quintessentially Perth and something you could only capture with a drone. See if you can spot it next time you’re in the Cottesloe Beach Hotel. The image hangs in the entrance lobby, along with a selection of Nick’s work hanging throughout the hotel.
Artist Life in Western Australia
We asked the mind behind Tailwinds what it’s like being an artist in WA. He said “it’s such a creative place and there are so many like minded people like myself making some fantastic artwork.” Nick is also a keen contributor to local social media groups, where artists chat and share ideas about locations of where to shoot next. He’s even met a few people in person to offer some tips on how to fly drones, how to use the best filters and camera settings. However, he mentioned the struggle to grow his business Tailwinds Aerial Media. But it’s still in its infancy so we know big things are around the corner! Especially since his recent partnership with the Pan Pacific Hotel in the city. Who are exhibiting some of his photography in their hotel lobby!
The Future of Tailwinds
So what’s next for Nick and Tailwinds? Well he’s ready to tick off the long list of places around the world that he has earmarked for drone photography trips. Starting with Hutt Lagoon and Kalbarri, then Thailand and New Zealand. As well as hoping to expand his collaboration with Mullaloo Hotel. Where his images of Mullaloo are currently being exhibited in the bar and restaurant.
If you’re keen to get your hands on his wonderful photography, Nick sells prints and canvases of his stunning works on his website. The perfect addition to your home or gift for a loved one! You can also keep up with his latest works and travels on his Instagram and Facebook.
This article is apart of Perth Vibes initiative ‘Artist Spotlight’, which highlights the best locally grown artists, their stories and their art!
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Top Image Credit: Nick Bennett Of Tailwinds Aerial Media