This aerial shot is unforgettable – offering everything from technical precision and perfect timing to a depth of cultural storytelling rarely seen in drone photography.
The image, titled Containment, capturing a container ship passing through Hong Kong residential building's famous "dragon gate," has now been shortlisted for the LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 Awards – and there's no question why.
Captured by self-taught, award-winning British photographer, videographer, and visual artist Derry Ainsworth, the shot reflects his ongoing commitment to present Hong Kong through his unique perspective.
Finalist in the category: Travel
Containment by Derry Ainsworth
Tech info
Gear: DJI Mavic 2 Pro (Hasselblad L1D-20c + 28mm f/2.8)
Exposure: 1/320 sec, f/5.0, ISO 400
Ainsworth says about the image, "A lone container ship passes by the front of a residential building in Hong Kong. The ship can be seen through the building's 'dragon gate'-a feng shui design feature said to allow dragons to pass through from the mountains to the sea.
"Taken with a drone after patiently waiting for a container ship to pass by through the view of the gate."
Why it could win
1. Masterful geometric composition
The residential tower features a strong vertical pattern, while the "dragon gate" frames the container ship like a natural portal. This deliberate alignment showcases the architectural rhythm and the fleeting element within it.
2. Patient orchestration of timing
Capturing the container ship precisely at the gate demonstrates extraordinary patience and foresight. The single moment unites structure and motion, turning the scene into a visual narrative of chance and control.
3. Dialogue between human culture and industry
The "dragon gate," a feng shui feature, contrasts with the utilitarian container ship passing through. This juxtaposition explores Hong Kong's layered identity – tradition alongside global commerce.
4. Drone perspective for visual impact
Using a DJI Maic 2 Pro enables an elevated viewpoint that emphasizes scale and symmetry. The resulting image transforms a mundane urban scene into a striking, almost abstract composition.
Update
Containment didn't take the top spot in the Travel category at the LCE Photographer of the Year competition.
At the live awards ceremony at The Photography & Video Show 2026, it faced strong competition, including The Crossings by Uku Sööt and Fish Eyes by Sophia Spurgin.
The category win went to Sophia Spurgin's Fish Eyes, and this image also earned her the LCE Photographer of the Year title.
To discover more winning images, visit the LCE POTY website.
You might like...
Browse the best drones for beginners, the best travel drones, and the best camera drones for aerial photography and video
Looking for competitions to enter? Here are 10 global photo contests now open for entries from March to July.
