Stunning Aerial Pictures taken With Just a Kite And A Camera

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Stunning Aerial Pictures taken With Just a Kite And A Camera

These incredible aerial photographs have been taken with the aid of a simple kite. Soaring high above temples, coastlines and cities, the giant kite enables photographer Nicolas Chorier to manoeuvre his lens where no camera has been before. His stunning pictures cast new light on iconic buildings and give a bird's eye view of landscapes in India, Uzbekistan and Laos.

It also allows him to capture simpler compositions from unique angles, like this image of a fencing match on a beach in India. 'From above it's a completely new vision,

new perspectives, new ways to understand the landscape and heritage,' said Nicolas. 'Every place has something interesting to show from above. The results are full of discovery, showing new perspectives, new shadows. 'Getting so close to subjects is magical, exquisite and thrilling.' Photography has always been a part of Nicolas's life. 

The 47-year-old grew up in France with weekly slide shows around the fireplace. He was given his first camera when he was 12-years-old and quickly became a photography enthusiast. As a teenager he also loved flying kites and one day decided to combine his two passions. Nicolas, who lives in Pondicherry, India, makes his own kites using siliconised nylon and carbon sticks. The photographic equipment is mounted in a small cradle hanging on a line under the kite. Only when his kite is in position and flying smoothly does he send the camera up. An air-to-ground video link beams live images back to a portable TV screen strapped around the photographer's neck. Nicolas then uses a remote control to move the cradle and camera into the best position to take the picture. 'Each site has its own challenges,' he said.