The aerial image of the year looks almost unreal – "I prioritize capturing the 'money shot' in-camera," says award-winning photographer

Aerial view of a bird sitting in the middle of a reflective pond surrounded by red foliage. The sky and clouds are mirrored in the water — The award-winning image shows a birdie sitting on the water of a tiny, crystal clear lake with reflection of the sky and surrounded by red grass, somewhere in Dongtai, China (Image credit: Vitaly Golovatyuk)

Shanghai-based photographer and cinematographer Vitaly Golovatyuk has won over 100 awards throughout his career. Now his latest international recognition comes from an aerial image so surreal that many viewers might question whether it is real – but the artist's approach is refreshingly traditional.

The image that earned Golovatyuk the International Aerial Photograph of the Year award was captured above Elk Park, outside Dongtai City in Zhejiang Province in China. Surrounded by red vegetation with the sky and clouds perfectly reflected in the water, a bird sits in the middle of the lake.

In an era of AI-generated images and increasing questions around photographic authenticity, Golovatyuk's work shows what can be achieved through technical skill, composition and patience behind the camera or drone. "I prioritize capturing the 'money shot' in-camera," explains Golovatyuk.

International Aerial Photograph of the Year

Golovatyuk's trusted gear

Currently using a DJI Mavic 4 Pro and a Sony FX2 with Sony prime and zoom G Master lenses, he says, "Over the years, I've tried many different cameras and drones, but I’m happy with my current setup.

"I'm not a big fan of bulky camera bags, so I usually carry a more comfortable bag where I put my cameras."

DJI Mavic 4 Pro drone flying — "The Mavic 4 Pro is an exceptional drone, offering sturdy reliability in the air that reminds me, as a pilot, why there are advantages to having a little weight when you need stability," states DCW's Managing Editor Adam Juniper after reviewing the drone (Image credit: Adam Juniper / Future)

The story behind the award-winning shot

“After several days exploring the area during sunrise and sunset, I photographed this bird on a tiny lake surrounded by red grass," explains Golovatyuk.

The clarity of the sky's reflection creates a striking illusion, as if the bird is suspended weightlessly in the air.

He continues, "Aerial photography has fundamentally expanded my creative vision, pushing me to seek unconventional angles and compositions that stand out in an increasingly saturated visual landscape."

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Kim is a photographer, editor and writer with work published internationally. She holds a Master's degree in Photography and Media and was formerly Technique Editor at Digital Photographer, focusing on the art and science of photography. Kim covers everything from breaking industry news and camera gear to the stories shaping photography today. Blending technical expertise with visual insight, she explores photography's time-honored yet ever-evolving role in culture.