Portugal Farol do Cintrão, Azores

Perched high above the Atlantic on the dramatic northern coastline of São Miguel, Farol do Cintrão is one of those places where the unpredictable Azorean weather can completely transform a scene. I captured this aerial shortly after heavy rainfall, just as the clouds started to open and a small window of sunlight illuminated the green fields around the lighthouse. The contrast between the dark storm clouds, rugged cliffs, and warm light made the conditions far more interesting than a clear day.

This location works particularly well with a drone, as the air reveals the cliffs' scale and the beautiful patchwork of fields surrounding the lighthouse. Rather than flying directly overhead, try moving out over the ocean and pointing the camera back towards the coastline. And don't pack away your camera when it rains – on the Azores, the few minutes immediately after a shower can produce some of the most dramatic light of the entire trip.

Farol do Cintrão is located on Ponta do Cintrão near Ribeirinha, on the north coast of São Miguel. The area is easily incorporated into a road trip around this part of the island and is especially worthwhile for its rugged coastal scenery. Weather changes incredibly quickly here, so bring a waterproof jacket and be prepared for rain even when the forecast looks promising. For drone photography, the exposed coastline can also become very windy, so always check the conditions and current local flight restrictions before taking off.