Making the leap from a traditional office career to flying drones was a decision that changed my life in ways I never imagined. Here’s why I traded in the cubicle for the sky.
1) Discovering a New Passion
Before discovering drones, I had a solid career in IT, where I transformed complex technological frameworks into user-friendly solutions. My journey took a creative turn in 2014 when I fell in love with photography. It was in 2015 that drones entered the picture, offering a fresh perspective and an exciting new challenge. This new passion combined my technical skills with a creative outlet, making drone photography the perfect fit for me.
2) The Thrill of Exploration
Flying a drone is more than just operating a piece of technology; it’s an adventure. Every flight is an opportunity to explore new landscapes and see familiar places from a different perspective. Unlike the routine and predictability of an office job, drone photography keeps me on my toes, constantly seeking new angles and vistas.
3) The Flexibility of Being My Own Boss
One of the biggest draws of drone photography was the freedom it offered. No more 9-to-5 grind, no more long commutes. I set my schedule, choose my projects, and work at my own pace. This flexibility has allowed me to balance my work with my personal life in ways that a traditional office job never could.
4) Connecting with Nature
There’s something profoundly calming about being in nature, and drone photography has deepened my connection to the natural world. Whether it’s the serene beauty of a sunrise over the ocean or the rugged majesty of mountain peaks, each flight reminds me of the incredible beauty that exists all around us. I cherish this connection to nature.
5) The Joy of Storytelling
Every photograph tells a story, and drones have given me a new medium to share those stories. The aerial perspective adds depth and intrigue that ground-level shots often can’t match. Through my images, I aim to convey the sense of wonder and awe I feel every time I take to the skies.
6) Turning Passion into Profit
What started as a hobby quickly turned into a profitable venture. With the right skills and marketing, drone photography can be a lucrative business. The opportunities are vast, from real estate and weddings to commercial projects and travel photography. Building Sky Perth allowed me to transform my passion into a thriving career, showcasing my work on platforms like Netflix and AppleTV+.
7) Continuous Learning and Growth
The field of drone photography is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques emerging regularly. This constant evolution keeps me engaged and excited. I’m always learning, improving, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. This commitment to growth is something I might not have found in a traditional office role.
Choosing to fly drones over working in a big office was a leap of faith, but I’m grateful for it every day. The freedom, creativity, and connection to nature have enriched my life in ways I never imagined. For anyone standing at a similar crossroads, I can confidently say: Take the leap. The sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning.
How do you feel about taking a leap and trying something completely new that you love?
Best,
Rodrigo Branco Matsumoto.
Check my ebook From Passion to Profit Mastering Drone Photography. I talked more about my challenges and tried to consolidate a few things I learned in the last 8 years.
