Industrial Photography at Harland & Wolff: Navigating Drone Logistics in Belfast
As a commercial and industrial photographer based in Belfast, I often find that the most rewarding projects are the ones that demand the most preparation. To kick off my Flashback Friday series, I’m revisiting a significant commission from November 2021: a comprehensive aerial survey of the iconic Harland & Wolff shipyard.
At the time, the yard was a hive of maritime activity. If my memory serves me, there were seven different vessels in the docks simultaneously—a rare and impressive sight for anyone involved in maritime and industrial photography. The brief was to capture the sheer scale of the operations, showcasing the ships in for inspections, servicing, and structural repairs.
The Logistics of Industrial Drone Photography Capturing these images isn't as simple as just launching a drone. Because Harland & Wolff is situated in Belfast Harbour, it sits within high-security restricted airspace. This project required meticulous coordination and formal permissions from the Belfast Harbour Police and Belfast City Airport (BHD).
Flying a drone only a few hundred meters from a busy commercial airport runway is a high-pressure environment. Even with a licensed pilot's credentials, the safety protocols are rigorous. I was in constant communication with the control tower, who provided specific windows for flight. This meant I had to be ready to launch or land at a moment's notice to ensure zero interference with aircraft approach paths or taxiing maneuvers. It’s a side of industrial photography that clients rarely see, but it’s essential for maintaining safety and legal compliance in Northern Ireland.
Overcoming the Belfast Weather The biggest challenge, as is often the case in Northern Ireland photography, was the weather. Our initial schedule was grounded by uncooperative winds and poor visibility. We had to wait for a specific high-pressure system to move through, which eventually granted us a crisp, clear day that allowed the details of the ship hulls and the scale of the "Samson & Goliath" cranes to really pop.
Harland & Wolff Shipyard, Belfast
By the time the weather cleared, several vessels were already preparing to depart, which added a sense of urgency to the shoot. Looking back at these archives, I’m reminded of how crucial patience and technical planning are to the craft. Whether it’s corporate headshots or large-scale industrial surveys, the preparation behind the lens is what ultimately shapes the final frame.
