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
Have you ever felt like you were doing something groundbreaking, only to realise others have been there before? I’ve felt that too. At first, it can be deflating, but then you realise how much you can learn from those who’ve already walked the path.
When I started Sky Perth, I had big dreams but no idea where they’d lead. Over the years, I’ve worked with incredible teams, from Netflix to Disney+, and captured some truly unforgettable moments. But if I’m honest, every success has come from lessons I’ve picked up along the way, lessons I never could’ve learned on my own.
I want to share a few of those with you. These are things that have stuck with me, shaped how I work, and made every challenge worth it:
- Pay attention to the little things. Early on, I thought the “big picture” was all that mattered. Then, a client asked for a specific shot, and I realised my focus on the big picture had made me miss the details that mattered to them. Now, I listen closely and think about the small moments that tell the story.
- Stay curious. There was a time I thought I’d figured it all out, but I hadn’t. Every project brings something new, and every client teaches me something I didn’t know. Curiosity keeps the work fresh.
- Embrace the unexpected. Some of my favourite shots happened when plans went sideways, a sudden rain shower, a random light change, or an idea we tried at the last second. Magic happens when you lean into the surprises.
- Ask for help. Early in my career, I felt I had to prove myself by doing it all. Now, I know the best results come from collaboration. Whether working with a director or asking another pilot for advice, you get so much further with the right people by your side.
Looking back, I can see how much I owe to those who came before me. Every shot, every moment, every project, they’re all shaped by what I’ve learned from others.
So, if you’re chasing a big dream, here’s my advice:
- Learn from the past.
- Stay open to the future.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way.
You’re not alone on this journey, and that’s a good thing.
Let’s keep dreaming big together.
Best,
Rodrigo Branco Matsumoto.
Text adapted from: https://rodmatsumoto.com/storytelling/learn-from-the-past-dream-for-the-future/
