He takes our eyes where they can’t go, and his eyes are as curious as ours.
His wonder and imagination guide him as he navigates unseen swerves and curves and he hopes to delight and amaze not only his clients but also himself. That’s likely why so many local residents already follow Matt Caballes’ social media platforms, and why his work continues to collect admirers.
Most recently, the Wheeling photographer has offered drone footage of the renovation and preservation of the Monument Bridge in Elm Grove, he documented the visit of the USS LST-325 at Heritage Port, and he shot the Wheeling Vintage Raceboat Regatta over the Labor Day weekend.
All legit, of course, as Caballes is trained and certified to do what he does so well, and he hopes opportunities to continue flowing his way in the future because the young man realizes how multimedia professions continue evolving in this day and age.
What Caballes knows best, though, is what his photographer’s eye tells him about the stories he’s able to tell with those lucky enough to scroll, “Like,” and “Share.”
How did you learn how to operate a drone so well?
I began learning what I could through YouTube like many people do with a new hobby. I then started studying for my Part 107 with the FAA’s study material getting my pilots license in 2022. Trial and error handled the rest. I do think growing up in a photography shop as a daycare (Majestic Studios) with my single mother during shoots helped to give me a good eye for a captivating photo.
Why Wheeling?
I’m originally from Pittsburg, California but was raised here in Wheeling. No other reason than that but I would like to discover new opportunities elsewhere should the chance arise.
How do you plan to keep photography as your profession?
Tough to answer as I am still searching for one myself, but I would like to begin selling my prints and services which would include real estate work, mapping, promotional/marketing work, inspections, etc.
What do aerial views tell us about where we live?
Aerial views can give you a much better perspective of the surrounding area especially when so few flat areas exist and your view from the ground is typically obstructed. Also, I personally find that flying in this state makes you appreciate the expansive forests that we can some times take for granted here. The amount of untouched woodland in every direction is breathtaking from the air.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Well, as I’m about to be 35 I think that ship has already set sail, but I would love to make this something that I could do full time while traveling the world. As a child I would have said a fighter pilot which is why I have always enjoyed flying, especially FPV (First Person View) drones.
