We were lucky to catch up with Blair Bai recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Blair, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
I possess a considerable amount of patience and perseverance when it comes to pursuing my ambitions. Opting for a career in filmmaking was a bold decision for me, especially considering I am the sole artist in my entire family, with no other members involved in the arts. It took several years for my family to comprehend and accept my choice, as they were initially opposed to it. Since embarking on my journey in the film industry, I have navigated the intricacies on my own. Independent decision-making and seeking advice autonomously have been crucial aspects of my experience. Constant experimentation, reflection, and progress have been essential for my growth. These challenges have proven immensely beneficial in shaping my skills.
I firmly believe that genuine passion for a goal naturally fosters resilience. This commitment has been a driving force in my ability to overcome obstacles and continually advance in my filmmaking endeavors
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’ve been in the film industry for a decade now, primarily involved in producing, editing, and assistant directing. I studied screenwriting during my undergraduate years and pursued film production in grad school. Initially, I wasn’t particularly interested in producing; in fact, I was a bit hesitant because, at the time, I thought being a writer was cooler and more creative. However, many friends suggested that I was well-suited for producing, so they asked for my help in producing their projects. During this period, I gradually developed an interest in producing, which became a process of self-discovery. I found that my personality is well-suited for producing—I enjoy interacting with people and planning things out. Collaborators also appreciate working with me, leading me to delve deeper into producing and gradually take on the path of a professional producer. During my undergraduate years, I also developed an interest in editing because it shares similarities with screenwriting, involving storytelling and story editing. I also enjoy the technical aspects of editing.
I believe that occasionally trying different things can bring a fresh perspective to my work. Experimenting with various aspects also helps me better understand filmmaking itself. Currently, my work spans various shows and indie projects. I welcome anyone with interesting projects to reach out for potential collaboration.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Above all, mastering the art of handling rejections is crucial. In the entertainment industry, particularly in the early stages of one’s career, rejections are par for the course. It’s vital to understand that these rejections often don’t reflect your abilities. There are various reasons behind them, so there’s no need to take them too seriously. Moving on to the second point, persistence is the name of the game—keep trying and never throw in the towel. As long as you stay dedicated, persist through the initial challenges of your career, consistently deliver on each project, and broaden your network, opportunities will undoubtedly present themselves. The key focus should be on maintaining unwavering belief in yourself.
The third point underscores the significance of continuous creation and ongoing knowledge absorption. While diving into a production can be demanding, it’s crucial to take time for periodic reflection, document inspirations, and develop new projects. It might sound simple in theory, but in practice, it requires dedication. For creators, the essence lies in staying committed to the act of creation.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
I find my greatest inspiration in the collaborators and friends within the film industry because of their unwavering dedication and remarkable talent. Their hard work consistently provides me with new ideas, and they offer invaluable support whenever I need it. Witnessing their continuous efforts motivates me to stay committed and strive for progress. I believe the most crucial aspect is surrounding yourself with the right group of individuals who can contribute to your personal growth and development
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vimeo.com/user96464369
- Instagram: bbbllaaiirr
