London from the Air

by Jason Hawkes

Art derives less often from portraying the exotic than from depicting the familiar in a new light. These 150 stunning aerial pictures capture the everyday sights of London from striking angles and in many moods. Distant views show the shape of the city in summer and snow-bound winter, and from the night lights to midday sunshine--imbuing London landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Thames with a magical quality. Accompanying the photos is lively commentary illuminating details that a cursory glance might miss and explaining how the shape of modern streets, parks, and public buildings has been influenced by the city's ancient history. Panoramic, colorful, and majestic, this book will delight those familiar with the city of London, as well as those armchair travelers who have yet to sample its many charms. 10 1/2" x 11 1/2".

Genres: Travel, Photography, London, Reference

160 pages, Hardcover

First published September 27, 1992

About the author

Jason Hawkes specialises in aerial photography from helicopters. He is based just outside London in the UK, and works worldwide.

Reviews

[Kevin de Ataíde]

Interesting coffee-table picture-book depicting the streets of London from a three-quarter view that is more attractive than the vertical straight-down gaze of Google Maps. The book is dated (early 90s), showing pictures, for instance, of when Canary Wharf was young. Nevertheless, it is very informative; things such as the ancestry of some of London's most noble architecture is described briefly and interesting features such as Wren's fake walls on S. Paul's cathedral are well described. I have most liked discovering such things as the form and shape of places like Hyde Park Corner, which are not immediately apparent from the ground.

[JoJo]

Having always enjoyed seeing sights from aeroplanes and high buildings I really enjoyed seeing some of the London buildings and areas from above - a new perspective