Student Combines Passion for Engineering and Photography to Capture the Magic of Flight

Most aeronautical engineering students spend their time studying aircraft aerodynamics and airframe mechanical systems, but 19-year-old Zak Baldwin has found a unique way to combine his technical knowledge with creative flair - by turning his lens to the skies.

Currently studying a Level 4 HNC in Aeronautical Engineering at ASI Newark, Zak is known for his breathtaking aviation photography – with his work proudly decorating the HE classroom at ASI’s new £15.4 million campus.

From the standout Red Arrows to golden-hour takeoffs and the raw power of fast jets slicing through cloud cover, his images capture the drama and elegance of flight in ways that speak to enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Zak said: “ Having spent my childhood living close the runway at RAF Waddington, being able to capture and have a visual library of military aircraft from all over the world has become a passion.”

Zak first picked up a camera in 2022 when he was 16. Zak credits his Grandfather for giving him his first digital camera and inspiring his photography passion, learning to use Adobe editing software to really bring the images to life.

Since then, his skills behind the camera have grown alongside his understanding of aircraft design and performance.

Laurence Roberts, Aeronautical Engineering Lecturer and HE Course Coordinator at ASI, added: “It’s a privilege to have Zak, a talented student, on the course and to exhibit his photos on the classroom walls too”.

Zak hopes to pursue a career in the Aerospace industry as an engineer after graduating, but he’s not putting down his camera any time soon!

Learn more about our HNC Aeronautical Engineering course on our website.