Allen Qiu's eye in the sky

Allen Qiu first discovered the art of photography and filmography in his home city of Hangzhou, China.

But it wasn’t until Allen piloted his first drone that the interest really began to soar. 

“When I was young, my mum was always taking photos with me, and then I started to learn the drone in about 2018 on my dad’s mango farm in Cambodia,” he says. 

“After that, I knew I loved the drone, so I bought another one in China that I used to take lots of footage and videos when I travelled around the world.”

Allen soon earned his Chinese drone license and is currently applying both his aviation and multimedia skills through a Certificate III in Screen and Media qualification at All Saints, coordinated by Steve Lewis.

Mr Lewis says Allen has become an invaluable team player when it comes to All Saints’ various film commitments.

“He’s self-assured, very reliable, and often prepared to work outrageous hours when the situation demands, like filming a concert after a full day at school,” says Mr Lewis. 

“Allen also has very high standards in terms of trying to create the best possible product with the equipment we have. He pushes the gear to its limit which is what we love to see.”

Allen says studying in Australia and being able to nurture his passions through the Careers and VET programs at All Saints is a wonderful thing. 

“I love All Saints because it provides me with so many great opportunities,” he says. 

“From filming musicals, sports events, and concerts or helping staff, including Mr Wallas, with special projects, there is always something to challenge me. I feel very fortunate to be able to follow my passion for filmmaking at the same time as continuing my academic studies.”