Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to TINGYANG XU. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
TINGYANG, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
My journey into the world of film was inspired by my father who was an experienced lighting technician dedicated to creating the magic of light on film sets. When I was a child, I had the privilege of accompanying him to these scenes, where I was mesmerized by the fascinating settings and creative process behind the scenes. Little did I know that I would transform from a curious observer to a dedicated filmmaker. My love for the world of filmmaking began in high school when I began using my camera to document the fascinating happenings taking place within the walls of my school. It was during this time that I took my first high school film class. The fusion of these experiences, coupled with indelible memories of my formative years, ignited in me a deep fascination with the art of film. It became clear to me that I wanted to embark on a journey as a cinematographer, bringing a director’s vision to life and translating it to the screen.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Over the past three years I have had the privilege of working on numerous film crews in various roles, from Director of Photography (DP) and Gaffer to Sound Mixer and Director. Through these roles I honed my skills and expertise, but it became increasingly clear that my true calling lay in cinematography. As a cinematographer, I welcome the opportunity to work with directors to bring their imaginative concepts to the screen. I see myself as the bridge between the director’s vision and the audience’s experience. My unique contribution to the process is my nuanced understanding of color theory, the art of light and shadow manipulation, and camera movement choreography. I believe that well-crafted images enhance the viewer’s understanding of a narrative and provide deep insight into the psychology of the characters in the story.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I think what impacted me the most was collaboration and communication Filmmaking is inherently collaborative and requires effective communication and teamwork between various positions including directors, producers, actors, crew members and post-production. Developing strong interpersonal skills, such as active listening, negotiation, and conflict resolution, are critical to fostering positive working relationships and ensuring smooth project execution. Continuous practice is also very important. Your skills need to be honed by practice Whether you’re writing a script, experimenting with camera techniques, or editing footage, consistent practice is crucial to growth and improvement. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes; they are valuable learning opportunities.
I think what has impacted me the most is staying curious and having an open mind about all aspects of filmmaking and continuing to look for opportunities to learn and grow. Everyone has something to learn on a film set. Be open to new ideas and perspectives as they can fuel your creativity.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
One of the most influential things my parents did for me was their decision to send me to the United States to study filmmaking in high school and college. This provided me with valuable opportunities to grow, learn, and be exposed to a variety of perspectives and experiences. Studying film in the United States immersed me in the rich culture of filmmaking and provided access to top-notch resources, faculty, and industry connections. It also allows me to collaborate with peers who are passionate about filmmaking and learn from some of the best minds in the field. Additionally, living and studying abroad broadened my horizons, challenged me to adapt to new environments, and developed independence and adaptability. These experiences are not only invaluable in the world of filmmaking, but also for personal and professional growth.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @TINGYANG894
Image Credits
Ruogei Yang Sijunbo Liu Gabriella Jones
