It’s always interesting to see familiar surroundings from an entirely different perspective.

Like looking back at the coast from out to sea as you pass by on a ferry, or staring down from a plane window through the mist, soaring above a stretch of well-explored coves.

Cornwall based aerial photographer George Stephens creates work that aims to capture those moments of wonder and intrigue, immortalising them in photos rich in colour and texture. Recently, we caught up with him to find out more about his work.

Tell me about yourself and how you got into photography? 

I am George Stephens aka Gstee, an Abstract Aerial Photographer based in Newquay, Cornwall. I shoot land and seascapes, mostly around Cornwall, but now venturing further to explore new countries.
Since I can remember I have always had an interest in capturing moments on camera. I am self-taught and my techniques and use of equipment has evolved alongside my personal style. 

Tell me what attracted you to abstract aerial imagery in particular? 

For me, this style of photography allows my images to become a blend of reality and imagination. These photographs become dreamscapes. I can share this birdseye perspective, with room for imagination, and create conceptual art. It’s not always obvious what the image is, I like the process of your imagination translating the visual work, open to interpretation. 

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Growing up, I was fortunate enough to often see the world from an aerial perspective due to my family’s involvement and interest in aviation. Some of my fondest memories are staring out of plane windows, in awe of the world below. Seeing this view of the world is one of the most beautiful things about flying and being able to capture and share this emotive perspective is a privilege. 

What do you hope to prompt or evoke in the viewer with your work?

I want viewers of my work to be inquisitive, taking a minute to look deeper into familiar surroundings. I hope it evokes stillness, and gives you a true moment in the present. This world is so busy, it’s nice to get lost in something. 

Where next?

There is so much more of Cornwall left for me to explore. The changing seasons, tides and swells provide so much inspiration. I have recently been enjoying shooting alternative landscapes too, such as volcanic terrain in Fuerteventura and salt lakes in Spain.

View more of George’s work in his Instagram & website – where you can buy all his images as prints.

Click to enlarge:

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