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+, 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
Overcoming Setbacks
I lost my trusty mate…
Even when the odds seem stacked against you, it’s about time to fly higher than you ever did before.
My drone and I went on a beautiful adventure, but it crashed. It felt like my heart took a nosedive, too. You know the feeling when something you love… kaputs? That was me, gutted and a bit scared. I couldn’t imagine working without my trusty mate (the drone).
Joseph Campbell talks about the hero’s journey in his book. It’s like a map for every story where the hero faces a massive challenge, has a crack at overcoming it, and comes out wiser on the other side.
That’s what happened to me, in a way. The crash wasn’t just about losing my gear; it was a journey to discovering how to bounce back smarter.
Here’s what I learned from my little tale:
- Rest up, big time. Working yourself to the bone? That’s a recipe for disaster.
- Insurance isn’t just paper; it’s peace of mind. Get yourself covered.
- Know your battleground. Study the flight zone like you’re prepping for a final exam.
- Always have a Plan B. Or, in this case, a backup drone. Especially if you’re off the beaten track.
Sometimes, you’ve gotta crash to soar. It’s not just about the fall; it’s about getting back up, learning, and flying higher.
Every hero’s journey starts with a challenge. It’s how we come back from it that counts.
Text adapted from: LinkedIn
