THE SKY'S THE LIMIT

Meet the couple who quit their corporate jobs to capture southern Africa from the air

- ROBYN LUCAS

THIS couple have done what most of us can only dream of – stepping out of the hurly-burly of the rat race and taking to the skies to explore the wonder and majesty of the African wilderness.

Over the past decade, Jan and Jay Roode of Melville in Johannesburg have spent more than 2000 hours in the air, covering 370 000km over four southern African countries, photographing nature at its finest to showcase the beauty of the landscape and to raise conservation awareness.

Their new coffee-table book, Aerial Art, is the culmination of their remarkable journey, a vibrant collection of wild and enchanting images from a perspective many don’t get to enjoy – a bird’s eye view.

“Every time we go flying there’s something new to see, it’s like a giant treasure hunt,” Jay says. “I’ve got to pinch myself sometimes. It’s absolutely jaw-dropping.”

The couple say the book has been a four-year project packed into their decade of flying around southern Africa.

“The book is about discovering and exploring shapes, textures and patterns in nature. We explore the beauty and magnificence of the wilderness,” Jay explains.

Ten years ago Jan (48), an accountant, and Jay (44), a corporate marketer, decided to give up their stressful nine-to-fives to follow their dreams.

“Financially, it always makes sense to keep going on the route you’re going when you’re comfortable with your income and can meet all your expenses,” Jan says.