Raja Ampat drone photography
Exploring Raja Ampat’s Unique Ecosystem
Raja Ampat is not only famous for its stunning aerial views but also for its unique and rich ecosystem. The archipelago is home to one of the most diverse marine habitats in the world, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. While flying your drone, it’s fascinating to capture not just the landscape but also glimpses of the vibrant coral reefs and marine life beneath the water’s surface. This combination of above and below water beauty truly makes Raja Ampat a unique destination.
Drone Photography Tips for Capturing Eagles
Capturing the elusive White-bellied sea eagle in flight requires patience and a bit of technical know-how. When flying a drone in Raja Ampat, ensure you are aware of local regulations and respect wildlife habitats. Use a camera with a fast shutter speed to freeze the rapid movements of the eagle’s wings. Additionally, flying your drone during early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural light, which enhances the quality and mood of your photos.
Personal Experiences and Challenges
On my trips, I’ve learned that flying a drone near these majestic birds can be both thrilling and challenging. The eagles are sensitive to noise and movement, so getting too close may scare them away. However, with patience and respect for their space, it’s possible to capture breathtaking shots that truly tell the story of Raja Ampat’s wild beauty. These experiences have made me appreciate the importance of conservation and responsible tourism in such fragile ecosystems.
By Tommy Schultz.
For anyone visiting Raja Ampat for the first time with a drone – you’ll find the views just as stunning high above the reef as they are below the surface of the sea.
However, in some areas you might find an unexpected avian predator – the White-bellied sea eagle.
Normally these graceful raptors are beautiful to observe while they glide in front of the karst limestone islands of Raja Ampat, but if you happen to encounter one when you’re flying a $1,500 hunk of plastic and propellers with a camera attached, I can say from personal experience that it’s a lot less than fun.
I had just finished shooting an aerial panorama of the beautiful islands around Wayil, my battery warning blinking since I had stayed aloft as long as possible to take in the beautiful scenery.
Bringing my Mavic 2 in for a landing, I look up to see the shadow of an eagle’s outstretched wings.
Oh. S%@T.
The eagle was between me and the drone, like a great white shark waiting near the surface for you to run out of air and return to the surface.
With no choice but to try to bring the drone in for a landing, I started the descent.
When the Mavic came level with the eagle, the bird tucked in its wings in the unmistakable attack position.
Oh. S%@T!!!
My hands were shaking as I lunged with the controls, narrowly escaping numerous death blows by the bird.
I was too scared to take my eyes off the drama swirling above me to even check the battery level, fearing the eagle would capitalize on any moment of hesitation.
Somehow I managed to bring the ailing drone down to sea level, the eagle in hot pursuit.
In the end, the eagle only broke off its attack when it came close to the tender boat.
My hands were shaking so much I could barely land the drone.
When I got back to the Seven Seas, CD Alex told me that his friend (another cruise director) lost a brand new drone to an eagle in this same spot just a week before our trip.
When it comes to navigating the skies above Raja Ampat – you’ve been warned! ????
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Tommy Schultz
February 2020
Facebook: facebook.com/tommyschultzphoto
Website: tommyschultz.com
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