USDroneCast with Saunders Staley - Aerial Cinematographer

USDroneCast

Join us on this episode of USDroneCast with our guest award-winning Saunders Staley from Flying Robot https://www.flyingrobot.io/, whose remarkable work has left an indelible mark on the industry.

Saunders shares his remarkable trajectory, from his early fascination with photography and new technologies to his current role as a sought-after aerial cinematographer.

He'll share some insights about working for NFL Films, HBO, and flying for the SuperBowl.

He'll talk about the dedication and resilience required to run an aerial cinematography business, and how he was able to set Flying Robot apart from his competition.

We'll discuss working with Kitchen Sink Creative https://wearekitchensink.com/ on an epic oneshot of downtown Phoenix and the complexity of pulling it off.

With a passion for storytelling through the lens, Saunders began his artistic journey at the prestigious Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California. Immersed in the world of film and photography, Saunders honed his skills in the analog era, mastering the art of capturing moments without the luxury of instant digital feedback.

Graduating in 2002, Saunders embarked on a nomadic adventure, traversing iconic locations from San Francisco to Phoenix, Arizona. The diverse corporate experiences he gathered along the way were instrumental in shaping his proficiency in sales and marketing—a foundation that would prove invaluable to his journey in the drone cinematography realm.

In 2016, Saunders founded Flying Robot, a venture that marked the turning point in his career. Fueled by a determination to excel, he meticulously curated his portfolio, focusing his lens on cinematography and photography. The path wasn't without its challenges, as Saunders diligently fine-tuned his offerings and streamlined his expertise to carve a distinct niche in the drone industry.

Navigating the ever-changing landscape of 2020, Saunders adapted to the circumstances, continuing to create compelling content for a variety of industries. His tenacity bore fruit in 2021 when the tide shifted, propelling Saunders and Flying Robot to new heights. Through steadfast dedication, Saunders has earned the opportunity to collaborate with renowned brands such as HBO, Google, NFL, PING, LEXUS, Spotify, National Geographic, and Sony Entertainment.

Join us in this captivating episode as Saunders shares his remarkable journey, from the analog realm to conquering the skies with cinematic finesse. Gain insights into his approach, experience his magnetic storytelling, and immerse yourself in the world of drone cinematography.

USDroneCast is produced by AZDroneFest

Visit us online to learn more about our International Drone Film Festival at: https://www.usdronefest.com/arizona/