California Baptist University

How did you get into drone photography?

Why did you end up making the account @fromwhereidrone?

I got into photography around 2007, so I was taking photos and posting online for years, but I started getting tired of my photography. I felt like I had shot all the stuff in my area, and I was no longer inspired like I used to be. However, in 2013, I heard of this thing called a drone that you could attach a camera to. My dad bought me a toy drone with a little toy camera which I thought was so cool.

I started sharing my work on (my personal) Instagram. People would leave a comment or message me and ask questions like, ‘Hey how are you getting

such a high angle? Are you renting a helicopter?’ I got tired of replying (and

After a few months with that I said, ‘I’m going to invest in a drone, figure out how to use it, get a GoPro

explaining), so I started an official Instagram account and, in 2016, launched my website.

and attach it to that.’ It got a lot more serious. It was no longer a toy; it was a semi-professional contraption. My toy drone only went so high, but this drone went all the way up, and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I’ve never seen my

Where do you get your inspiration?

neighborhood like this before.’ That’s when it clicked for me: All the spots I used to shoot could be totally be visited in a new way because I have a different angle. I loved it and I fell in love.

I see (drone photography) as a collaboration with God. I’m

STICKING THE LANDING Dirk Dallas catches drone its descent. His new book From Where I Drone showcases photos from all seven continents. taking a little frame in the world that he’s made, so for me like it’s a way to acknowledge him — to be immersed in his beauty. It’s also a way for me to hopefully inspire others.