Having flown in a helicopter twice in my life above this island in the sun, I know first-hand the awesome beauty to behold from an aerial view of Jamaica. The lushness, the vibrant hues and shades of greens and blues that not even the famous Crayola Company can replicate in their box of 64 colours. It is this panoramic view that photographer Robert Davis so skilfully captured through his lens and has shared within the pages of his latest publication ‘Jamaica by Air’.
With captioned photographs of the locations featured, you know exactly which breathtaking image is represented in the book, which by the way, is large as it had to properly display the images in all their glory. There was simply no acceptable way to ‘small up’ Ja eur and magnificence.The vistas, the views, the valleys, the peaks and the turquoise tranquillity of the Caribbean Sea are not only evident but are also symbolic of all that is right about our nation. Few countries can rival our natural beauty but none can imitate our extraordinary, unique land of lush mountainside that can in less than an hour, lead to a roaring river or a breathtaking beach. Such is the topography that Davis’ expertise highlighted in his book.
The pictures really are worth a thousand words as Davis showcased a myriad of sights and scenes including the majesty of Blue Mountain at day break; the panoramic ‘pristine-ness’ of Prospect Plantation, the cool cliffs by Rick’s Cafe, the flora of Tryall Golf course and the stark contrast of Negril’s lighthouse. Then there’s the sprawling landscape of Kingston at sunset, the frothy waves by Fort Clarence beach’s coast line, the bold brass bridge over the Rio Grande;the triumphant Trident Castle;the haunting beauty of Lovers’ Leap and the coolness of the Cockpit country. The single most iconic mage captured for me however, would have to be Portland’s coastal reef that bears a striking likeness to crystals lying in the sun.
‘Jamaica By Air’ is a must have for every coffee table conversation as well as a great gift idea for friends in the Diaspora who miss ‘yard’ and need a little reminder of why they need to come home more often.