The 9 most stunning drone photographs of 2016

In the hands of a photographer drones can capture spectacular, unique images which we would otherwise go unseen

A social network specifically for drone photography, ‘Dronestagram’, emerged three years ago, which created a space where drone photography enthusiasts could share their images on a daily basis.

Although drones have been at the forefront of ethical and security debates, the unmanned flying machines, in the hands of a photographer can capture spectacular, unique images which we would otherwise go unseen.

For the third year in a row, the international Dronestagram contest has recognised outstanding photos in this emerging field which were selected from 5,900 submissions from across 28 countries. The aim of the contest was "to celebrate the beauty of drone photography, a new photographic language.”

Here we look at 9 of the most stunning drone photographs selected in the categories of 'Nature-Wildlife', 'Sports Adventure', and 'Travel'.

1. Demark’s Kalbyris Forest

PHOTO: Michael Bernholdt

2. Cable Beach, Australia

PHOTO: Todd Kennedy



3. Marpod, Romania

PHOTO: Szabolcs Ignacz

4. Piton de la Fournaise volcano on Réunion island

PHOTO: Jonathan Payet

5. Moab, Utah

PHOTO: Max Seigal

6. Cúcuta, Colombia

PHOTO: Juan Pablo Bayona

7. Cordova, Alaska

PHOTO: Tj Balon



8. Gran Canaria Island

PHOTO: Karolis Janulis

9. Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi in Assisi, Italy

PHOTO: Francesco Cattuto

PHOTOS: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC