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Exploring Stunning Locations: Stories Through Photography
Welcome to the DJ Aerial Photography blog page, where we take you on a journey through the stunning locations we've captured from above. Each blog post highlights a different place, offering insights into its history, beauty, and significance. Whether it’s a historic landmark, a hidden gem, or a breathtaking landscape, we provide you with a unique perspective on the locations we explore. Join us as we uncover the stories behind each site and share the beauty of these remarkable places through our aerial photography.
South of Scotch Corner (The Midlands Apparently) – A Grand Day Out in North Yorkshire
Today’s explore took me a little further south than usual—though whether you call it the Midlands or still Yorkshiredepends on which side of Scotch Corner you’re from! Either way, I headed down towards Ripon and the surrounding area, and what followed was an epic day of exploring. From soaring abbeys to towering castles, cathedrals, halls, and atmospheric ruins, it was the kind of trip that made every mile worth it.
David James
Apr 22, 20256 min read
From Rievaulx to Unexpected Finds – Exploring Around Helmsley & Thirsk
After yesterday’s explore around Leyburn and Wensleydale, and a bit of a mix-up where I mistakenly said I’d visited Rievaulx Abbey (when it was actually Jervaulx Abbey – easy mistake, right?), I thought it only fair to make it right. So today, I headed out towards Helmsley and Thirsk to put that right and squeeze in a few other locations along the way. What followed turned into one of those brilliantly varied days, full of grand landmarks and a couple of unexpected gems that
David James
Apr 17, 20257 min read
A Calm Morning Over the Toon – Aerial Views of Newcastle’s Landmarks
Although the day started with a blanket of overcast skies, the near total absence of wind made for ideal flying conditions - especially for a city shoot, where still air means a safer and steadier flight. With that in mind, I grabbed the chance to head into Newcastle, one of the North East’s most iconic cities, to capture some of its famous landmarks from above.
David James
Apr 15, 20255 min read
Perfect Conditions on the Coast – Hartlepool & the Historic Headland
With clear blue skies and barely a breath of wind, the conditions were spot on today—so there was only one place to go: the coast. I made my
David James
Apr 7, 20257 min read
Wandering the North Yorkshire Moors – A Lesson in Getting Lost (and Finding a Few Gems)
Today was one of those days where I set off with no clear plan, just the camera, the drone, and the hope of stumbling across something speci
David James
Mar 27, 20254 min read
Bridges, Battlements & Borderland History: A Day Exploring Corbridge & Hexham
With a spell of fine weather, I decided it was time to venture somewhere a little different - Northumberland. It’s a region I haven’t spent
David James
Mar 26, 20258 min read
South of the Tyne: An Afternoon Exploring Gateshead’s Quayside
With clear skies and low winds, this afternoon seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore somewhere I’ve not spent much time—Gateshead.
David James
Mar 24, 20257 min read
Bridges, Beacons & Heritage: A Morning Exploring Sunderland
Today’s shoot included a mix of engineering and heritage—from bridges old and new, to a historic lighthouse on the coast, and a beautiful ch
David James
Mar 21, 20255 min read
Exploring the North Side of the River Tees: A Day of Stunning Locations and Engaging Encounters
Today was one of those days that had it all—spectacular locations along the north side of the River Tees between Darlington and Gainford, co
David James
Mar 11, 20257 min read
A Day of Stunning Skies – Historic Houses, Ancient Priories & Nighttime Railways
Today was one of those perfect weather days—clear skies, almost no wind, and golden light that made every location shine. With such ideal co
David James
Feb 27, 20254 min read
From Ancient Ruins to Industrial Icons – A Day of Exploration Across the North East
Another action-packed day exploring and capturing the rich heritage of the North East. The weather was near-perfect—clear blue skies, no win
David James
Feb 6, 20255 min read
Grey Skies and Hidden Gems – A Day of Exploration
The heavy clouds may have muted the colours today, but that didn’t stop me from getting out and capturing some fascinating locations.
David James
Jan 31, 20256 min read
From Racing Tracks to Historic Towers – A Day of Contrasts
After yesterday’s epic journey through Weardale and Teesdale, today felt like a more relaxed exploration. That being said, it was still a gr
David James
Jan 30, 20255 min read
A Day Exploring Bishop Auckland and Beyond
Today the skies were grey, but the weather stayed dry enough for me to head out and capture some fascinating locations around Bishop Aucklan
David James
Jan 20, 20253 min read
A Day Closer to Home: Exploring Durham and Its Rich Heritage
It’s been an incredible week of exploration, and today I decided to stay closer to home. With clear skies and calm conditions, I set out to
David James
Jan 17, 20253 min read
An Adventure Through North Yorkshire and Beyond
The clear skies set the perfect scene for a day of exploration in North Yorkshire. From ancient churches and intriguing ruins to mysterious
David James
Jan 15, 20253 min read
Blog for Today: Coastal Gems and Sunset in Durham
This morning, with the perfect weather of clear skies and calm winds, I set out along the coastline to explore some of the Northeast’s most
David James
Jan 14, 20254 min read
An Afternoon in Darlington: Exploring History from Above
This afternoon, I ventured towards Darlington, a town steeped in industrial heritage and architectural charm. While the skies were slightly
David James
Jan 13, 20253 min read
A Snowy Day Exploring County Durham’s Treasures
Today was one of those magical winter days where the frost seemed to amplify the beauty of every scene. With clear skies and the lingering s
David James
Jan 10, 20254 min read
A Frosty Morning in Durham and Snowy Weardale Adventures
With the temperatures dropping well below freezing, I set out early this morning to capture some of Durham’s hidden gems. The clear skies pr
David James
Jan 9, 20255 min read
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