The Best Drone Photography of 2016

Too frequently associated solely with warfare, the invention and rollout of drone technology over the past few years has proved a controversial topic around the world. Yet drones do also present exciting new opportunities in arts such as photography, enabling photographers to capture landscapes and experiences from once-unattainable, breathtaking new angles. The International Drone Photography Contest is now in its third year and this year’s entries—which are welcomed by everyone from seasoned professionals to amateur drone enthusiasts—were judged by a panel of experts including National Geographic Deputy Director Patrick Witty as well as Emanuela Ascoli, Photo editor of National Geographic France and Dronestagram. The competition is split up into three categories—travel, adventure/sports, and nature/wildlife—and as you can see from this year’s winners, the results are pretty spectacular.