Fife-based aerial photographer, Thomas Haywood (51) has been awarded Aerial Photographer Specialist of the Year at the Corporate LiveWire Scotland Prestige Awards 2022.

The event, which took place on the 17th October at the Norton House Hotel, Edinburgh, celebrated businesses and individuals who consistently offer excellent products and services. 

Thomas was presented with an award and award certificate to commemorate the occasion during the fairly quiet ceremony, attended by some of the top names in Scottish business. 

The photographer, who recently moved to Dunfermline, Fife (from Edinburgh) with his partner, Mart, said he’d actually forgotten all about the award nomination when he received a phone call out of the blue in July telling him that he’d won. 

Thomas said: “I was absolutely gobsmacked. In one respect it’s nice to crow about, but in another I’ve been quite humble, and mainly kept it to myself until now. It’s very nice to know that my photography is appreciated, because when I first started up I didn’t think much of it. 

He continued: “At times I’m a perfectionist, but I don’t always realise it with my photography – we’re our own harshest critics, aren’t we?” 

Thomas has made himself well-known for his tenacity and can-do, team player attitude; from producing high quality images and film of £3.5 million properties, to sports adventure photography, and flying his drone on a film set in the Isle of Skye! 

Since Thomas first began working with drones seven years ago, he’s found himself travelling to historic sites, commercial buildings, sports events and so much more besides – and he’s always on the lookout for new challenges and experiences that push the limits. 

Why did he become an aerial drone photographer in the first place? Here’s the story from Thomas himself: 

“During my 12+ years as a professional photographer, I wanted to challenge myself to reach new heights in the fast-paced, innovative and ever-evolving world of drone photography. Having been a qualified drone pilot for nine and-a-half years now, I’m passionate about the benefits and opportunities aerial drone photography brings.”

With his distinct style and ability to nail a shot whether in the air or on the ground, it’s no wonder Thomas is in high demand. But there’s more to choosing a photographer than just popularity… 

Thomas said: “A photographer’s photo collection is like a signature on a page; you can take five photographers to an event, and have five different stories. You have to decide which style you actually like – which often has nothing to do with cost.”