About the author : Rodrigo Branco Matsumoto
Meet Rodrigo, our chief remote pilot here at Sky Perth, where he's been transforming aerial videography into captivating stories for over eight years. At the heart of Rodrigo's work lies a profound passion for both the art of flying and the art of storytelling. This combination has led his work to be featured on platforms like Netflix, Stan, AppleTV+, Paramount+, Disney+, SBS On Demand, and even internationally with ZDF in Germany.
Rodrigo's aerial videography and photography journey is a testament to his dedication to mastering this unique craft. From capturing the vast beauty of Australia's landscapes to the dynamic energy of urban life across the globe, his work offers viewers a fresh, sky-high perspective. It's not just about the technical expertise of handling a drone; for Rodrigo, every flight is an opportunity to tell a story, to reveal the unseen, and to share a new viewpoint with the world.
Renowned for his collaborative spirit and innovative approach, Rodrigo brings more than technical skills to every project at Sky Perth. Whether working on a documentary, a TV series, or a bespoke project, his focus remains on creating visuals that resonate deeply with audiences. His commitment to quality and ability to capture the heart of a story make him a skilled pilot and a storyteller of the skies.
Do you want to know more about Rodrigo? Check his website: rodmatsumoto.com
Automation in Drone Photography
Introduction
Drones have changed photography. They let people take amazing photos from the sky without needing a helicopter or plane. Now, artificial intelligence (AI) is making drones even smarter. Some drones can fly, track objects, and take pictures without a person controlling them.
But can AI truly replace a human pilot?
While AI helps make flying easier, it still has limits. A drone pilot uses skill, experience, and creativity to get the best shots. AI follows rules, but it doesn’t think like a person. In this article, we will look at how AI is helping drone photography, its limits, and whether it can ever replace human pilots.
How AI is Changing Drone Photography
Flying Without a Pilot
Some drones can fly on their own. AI helps them take off, move, and land safely. These drones use sensors and cameras to “see” their surroundings. They can follow a person, avoid obstacles, and stay on course.
For example, drones like the DJI Air 3 and Skydio 2+ can lock onto a subject and follow it without a pilot. This makes it easier for beginners to capture smooth, professional-looking shots.
Better Photos With AI
AI also helps improve photos. It can adjust brightness, remove blur, and even pick the best angles. Some drones can edit pictures automatically, so users don’t have to do much work.
This saves time and allows photographers to focus on being creative.
Avoiding Obstacles
AI helps drones avoid trees, buildings, and other objects. The drone’s sensors scan the area and change direction if needed. This makes flying safer, especially in busy places.
Even if someone isn’t paying close attention, AI can help prevent crashes.
The Limits of AI in Drone Photography
AI Lacks Creativity
AI can follow commands, but it doesn’t have creativity. Taking great photos is about more than just flying a drone. It’s about choosing the best angle, waiting for the right lighting, and telling a story.
Rodrigo Branco Matsumoto, Chief Remote Pilot at Sky Perth, says:
“AI can help with flying but cannot replace a photographer’s eye. The best shots come from human choices, knowing when to take the picture, how to frame it, and how to capture emotions.”
AI Can’t Adapt to Every Situation
Weather can change quickly. Wind, rain, or bright sunlight can affect a shot. A human pilot can adjust to these conditions, but AI may struggle.
For example, if a drone is tracking a runner and the sun suddenly shines directly into the camera, a human would shift the angle. AI may not react the same way.
Legal and Privacy Issues
Many countries have strict drone laws. In some places, a human must always be in control of a drone. Fully autonomous drones may not be allowed to fly in certain areas.
Privacy is another concern. AI drones can capture images without permission, which can create problems.
AI vs. Human Pilots: Who Does It Better?
| Feature | AI-Powered Drones | Human Pilots |
|---|---|---|
| Flight Control | Smooth and steady, but follows set rules | Can make quick decisions |
| Creativity | Can adjust settings, but not artistic | Chooses the best angles and timing |
| Obstacle Avoidance | Can dodge objects using sensors | Uses experience and awareness |
| Adaptability | Struggles with quick changes | Can adjust in real-time |
| Legal Use | Limited in some areas | Can follow laws and rules |
| Efficiency | Fast and automatic | Requires more skill and time |
AI makes things easier, but human pilots are still better at handling unexpected situations.
What’s Next for AI in Drone Photography
AI is improving every day. In the future, we may see:
- Smarter Drones – AI may suggest the best shots and angles automatically.
- Weather Prediction – AI could warn pilots about changes in weather.
- Better Reactions – AI may learn to adjust in real time, just like humans.
Even with these advancements, AI will likely work alongside pilots instead of replacing them. The best drone photography will always be a mix of AI technology and human creativity.
Lessons From the Book Atomic Habits
In Atomic Habits, James Clear explains how small improvements lead to significant results. This idea applies to AI and drone photography.
AI drones get better over time, just like photographers improve with practice. But, as the book teaches, mastery comes from experience and human effort, things AI cannot fully replace.
Rodrigo shares a similar view:
“AI can help with repetitive tasks, but drone photography is an art. The best shots come from creativity, skill, and adapting to real-world conditions.”
Conclusion
AI is making drone photography faster and easier. It helps with flying, tracking, and editing. However, it lacks creativity, decision-making, and adaptability.
For now, AI is a great tool, but it cannot fully replace human pilots. The best photos will always come from a mix of AI assistance and human skill.
