MARTINS FERRY — From several hundred feet up, the Ohio Valley communities we call home are a much different place.

Just ask Jeremy Lewis, owner of Flying Dreams Aerial Imaging Services in Martins Ferry.

When Lewis considers who we are as a community of towns and small cities, he’s doing it through the eyes of his aerial drone — and what he sees might come as a surprise to many area residents.

Instead of witnessing an area that’s in dire need of an economic revival, Lewis instead sees the region’s inherent beauty — something often overlooked as we go about our everyday lives.

“I really don’t think we always realize what we have here,” he said when asked to describe his view of the Ohio Valley. “When you look at this area from above, you’re in awe. It’s such an awesome place.”

His interest in drone photography stems from an obsession with flight he’s had since childhood. Once up there, he believed he had to capture those images to see a river valley as something magnified, not plain.

His business produces still photography prints and also records aerial video footage.

Lewis said the obvious aspect of height makes his images of the Ohio Valley different than others, but he said his stylistic spin lends personality to his shots.

A fair amount of Lewis’ still work engages with local scenes in the twilight of sunrise and sunset.

This decision imbues a sense of motion to the valley’s stationary hills.

Lewis, of Colerain, said his appreciation for the local topography was found in a trip to Hawaii with his wife. Out there, seeing sights from mountain peaks, he said the basic image of Hawaii’s river valleys simply resembled home.

He acknowledged that their beauty originated from some notable differences, but said the premise was similar.

Lewis said despite the Ohio Valley’s poor self-esteem, he likes to remind residents of what they possess, catching them off guard and having them completely reconsider their in-stated perception.

Real estate photography is another option with drones today. It’s a relatively new venture, but he believes the idea makes sense when one considers the commitment required to shoot footage from a drone. Flying for recreation is typically easy to do, so long as one owns the device. Lewis said when money is involved, though, the Federal Aviation administration must regulate the process.

Lewis obtained a Part 107 Certification for small, unmanned flying objects by passing a test in Pittsburgh.

He also holds a specific waiver to fly at night, which is usually forbidden. He said the test is fairly difficult to ace and requires extensive preparation. With this the case, someone in need of an aerial shot would likely prefer to hire an individual already equipped.

For more information on Flying Dreams Aerial Imaging Services, call Lewis at 740-359-3974, email him at jeremy@flyingdreams imaging.com or visit flyingdreams imaging.com.