Read the interview below to learn more about his journey as a drone photographer, his passion for the ocean, and his top tips for budding ocean and drone photographers.
Great to meet you, Sébastien. How did your journey with the ocean begin?
My connection with the ocean started during my childhood when I first visited the beach on holidays with my family. It was during those early days that I realized the ocean was a place of wonder and tranquility. Since then, it has always been a source of inspiration and peace for me.
How was the technology for shooting ocean photography when you first started, and how has it evolved?
I began my journey as a drone photographer in early 2020 with the DJI Mavic 1st Gen. Back then, the range and wind resistance weren't as advanced as they are today. I often lost connection between the controller and the drone while flying over the ocean, which was quite nerve-wracking. As DJI's drone technology evolved, I upgraded to more powerful models. Today, I use the DJI Mavic 3 Pro and the Avata 2. Both offer exceptional quality footage, extended range, and robust wind resistance, making ocean photography much more reliable and enjoyable.
Why is the role of ocean photography more important than ever in light of climate change, and how have drones supported this?
Ocean photography has become crucial in the context of climate change as it helps monitor the transformations of marine environments. Drones provide access to remote areas, capturing high-resolution images and videos that reveal the impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems.
What has been your most memorable experience while out shooting?
My most memorable experiences involve moments spent with whales. Using my drone, I've been able to connect with these incredible animals in their natural habitat, and each encounter brings me immense joy.
What are your tips and tricks for ocean photography?
For successful ocean photography, always check the weather before heading out. Use a quality and reliable drone with a good camera and stable flight capabilities. I also recommend ND filters to manage exposure in bright conditions and achieve smoother video footage. Make sure all batteries are charged, and bring as many as you can because the ocean environment can drain them very fast. Lastly, fly responsively.
What is your message or advice to novice drone photographers?
Get comfortable flying your drone – practice in open spaces and understand the controls thoroughly, and familiarize yourself with local drone laws and regulations. Always prioritize safety, avoid flying over people, and be mindful of weather conditions. Learn about camera settings such as ISO, shutter speed, and aperture.
Photography is a continuous learning process, so watch tutorials, read articles, and follow other drone photographers to gain new insights and inspiration. Respect wildlife and natural environments, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Drone photography is rewarding and offers unique perspectives that ground photography cannot.
To see more of Sébastien’s photography, visit https://www.instagram.com/sb.drone.sessions/.
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Over the past few weeks, we invited the drone community to share their stories as part of our #DecadeWithDJI campaign. The ingenious, creative, and meaningful use cases we received have inspired us to launch a content series of the same name. This series celebrates the drone pioneers, communities, and organizations that have built careers, businesses, and demonstrated positive impact through our drones. Follow the series here. |