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
Why Intuition Beats Technical Skills in Drone Photography
Technical skills are important, but here’s a disruptive thought: your intuition might be the more powerful tool in drone photography. Let me tell you why following your gut can lead to more stunning aerial images.
When I first got into drone photography, I was obsessed with learning all the technical details. I spent hours mastering the controls, understanding the different settings, and studying the best times of day to shoot. I believed that knowing everything about my drone would make me a great photographer.
Then, one morning, something changed. I woke up early, grabbed my drone, and headed out without any specific plan. As I flew my drone over the misty fields, I stopped worrying about the perfect settings or the ideal shot. I just followed my instincts.
I noticed how the light filtered through the fog, creating a magical effect. I let my intuition guide the drone, capturing angles and scenes that felt right in the moment. The results were breathtaking. Those photos turned out to be some of the best I’d ever taken. They weren’t technically perfect but had a raw beauty that resonated with everyone who saw them.
This experience taught me that intuition is a powerful tool in drone photography. Technical skills are still necessary—they give you the foundation to operate your drone safely and effectively. However, relying solely on technical skills can make your photos feel mechanical, lacking the emotional impact of a more instinctual approach.
Here are a few reasons why intuition can lead to better drone photography:
- Unique Perspectives: When you follow your intuition, you’re more likely to discover unique angles and perspectives you wouldn’t have found by strictly adhering to technical rules. This spontaneity can result in more original and captivating images.
- Emotional Connection: Photos taken with intuition often convey a stronger sense of emotion and atmosphere. When you’re in tune with your surroundings, you can capture the mood of a scene in a way that technical precision alone can’t achieve.
- Adaptability: Intuition helps you adapt to changing conditions. Weather, lighting, and other environmental factors can shift rapidly, and being able to respond intuitively allows you to take advantage of these changes rather than being caught off guard.
- Personal Style: Developing your intuition helps cultivate a personal style. Your gut feelings and creative impulses are unique to you and can set your work apart from others. Embracing your instincts can lead to a signature style that feels authentic and personal.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you should ignore the technical side of drone photography. Instead, think of technical skills as the framework that supports your intuitive creativity. Once you have a solid understanding of how your drone works and the basics of photography, allow yourself the freedom to experiment and trust your instincts.
In my journey, I’ve found that the most stunning aerial images come from a balance of both worlds. Master the technical aspects, but don’t let them restrict your creativity. Embrace your intuition, and you’ll find that your drone photography becomes not just a technical exercise but a true art form.
What’s the most surprising shot you’ve captured by just going with the flow?
Text adapted from: https://rodmatsumoto.com/drones/why-intuition-beats-technical-skills-in-drone-photography/
