Cover Feature: Jarrod Saw - Big Skies, Big Adventure: Photography in Australia’s North West

I write this seated by the plane’s window, gazing out over the vast expanse of the outback on my way to Broome. The landscape below stretches like an endless canvas, with the rich reds of the earth contrasting against the vibrant blues of the Indian Ocean. I love this view and am forever fascinated by it. It is a place of raw beauty that attracts photographers, adventurers, and storytellers alike. Every flight, road trip, and journey through these ancient landscapes feels like coming home.

Growing up in Dampier, I have always felt a connection to the North West. The iconic landscapes of the Pilbara and the Kimberley symbolise what we would fondly call “big sky country.” Today, I am fortunate to travel across the state, pursuing my passion and introducing others to the wonders of this extraordinary region.

The Pilbara is renowned for its stunning landscapes, where red earth meets blue skies and rugged gorges dot the plains. Exploring this region offers a chance to connect with its wild beauty, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the vivid colours are most striking. Each photograph taken here adds to the journey of first-time visitors.

Further north, the Kimberley presents a different landscape of gorges, waterfalls, and iconic ranges. The Gibb River Road is a must for first-time explorers, providing an adventurous experience and breathtaking views. Each season transforms the Kimberley: during the wet, rivers roar with power, while the dry season reveals tranquil gorges under clear skies. This region is a paradise for photographers, full of natural magic.

I believe the best way to see the North West is from the sky through aerial photography, changing familiar landscapes into beautiful patterns of colour and texture. I have spent a lot of time exploring the Pilbara and the Kimberley, and each flight brings me closer and opens my eyes to another new world. The feeling is both personal and endless. It helps us appreciate the beauty and size of “big sky country.”

Through Sailor Jay, we have been able to offer aerial photography workshops for those who want a new perspective of this stunning region. It is moving to see our participants awe as they catch their first glimpse of the area from above.

These workshops are not only about learning techniques; they focus on connecting with the land, appreciating its beauty, and enjoying the lively spirit around us. Each location shows a different side of the stunning beauty in the North West. By guiding others on this journey, I share the places I love. Photography, to me, is about building connections and telling stories, capturing lasting landscapes, emotions, and unforgettable moments.

The North West is a place of unmatched beauty and adventure, a paradise for photographers where every moment reveals a postcard view. Each trip takes me deep into the heart of “big sky country.” I cherish the privilege of capturing the essence of this land and sharing it with others. Each photograph represents a memory of a landscape that feels both familiar and mysterious—a piece of home that I carry with me wherever I go.

Instagram: @sailor.jay | www.sailorjay.com

👉  This story excerpt is from Issue #20 of Kickin Up Dust magazine: December 2024.