Today we’d like to introduce you to Wei Ta Chen

Hi Wei Ta, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.

My journey into filmmaking was not conventional. I began my academic career in Electrical Engineering at National Taiwan University. However, a spark was ignited during my senior year when I joined the university’s photography club. What began as an exploration of static images soon evolved into a passion for visual storytelling.

This newfound interest quickly expanded from street photography to event documentation, professional portrait shoots, and eventually into the realm of video production. I was captivated by the power of the visual medium to convey emotions, stories, and ideas. Despite having no formal training in the arts, I dedicated countless hours to self-teaching, honing my skills through relentless practice and experimentation.

Before moving to the United States, my career was marked by a diverse range of experiences, from working with large agencies to collaborating with independent media on content for YouTube channels. It was a period of growth and exploration that eventually led me to take a significant leap of faith—I established my own film studio, marking the beginning of my career as an independent filmmaker.

Moving to New York was a pivotal moment in my journey. Here, I continue to navigate the delicate balance between the artistic and commercial demands of the industry. I’ve learned that while high-quality productions require significant resources, the heart of any film lies in its story and the way it’s told. This understanding drives my work today, whether I’m directing a low-budget short film or leading a fully resourced production.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

As a non-US artist, trying to carve out a space in the competitive city of New York is always challenging. First of all, making ends meet as an independent filmmaker is no easy task. The cost of living is high, and the competition is fierce. There’s a constant pressure to balance creative projects with the need to secure commercial work that pays the bills. I’ve had to be resourceful and flexible, often taking on a variety of roles—director, cinematographer, editor—to ensure that I can sustain my career. It’s a delicate balance, and there are times when the financial pressures feel overwhelming.

Another significant struggle is dealing with self-comparison, particularly when I see friends around my age moving on to the next stages of life—getting married, starting families—while I’m still deeply entrenched in the hustle of building my career. It’s easy to fall into the trap of feeling like I’m behind, but I’ve learned to remind myself that everyone’s path is different. I’ve had to consciously shift my focus away from what others are doing and instead celebrate the progress I’ve made in my own journey.

Maintaining confidence on this difficult path is a continuous effort. There are days when the challenges seem unsurpassable, and it’s hard to keep the faith. What helps me is staying connected to my passion for storytelling and the belief that what I’m doing has value. I also lean on a supportive community of fellow creatives who understand the struggles and can offer encouragement when I need it most.

Interestingly, I don’t consider myself a particularly disciplined person, which can be a challenge as a freelancer. However, I’ve developed strategies to keep myself on track. I use tools like the Pomodoro Technique to manage my time effectively and often work in environments like cafes or libraries where I can focus without distractions. I also participate in study groups with peers, where we hold each other accountable and push each other to stay productive. These methods help me create structure in the otherwise fluid nature of freelance work.

This path isn’t easy, and there are many challenges along the way, but each struggle has taught me resilience and adaptability. It’s these qualities that keep me moving forward, even when the road is rough.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

My work primarily revolves around documentary filmmaking, with a particular focus on exploring the complexities of human experience and the immigrant journey. One of my most significant projects is my thesis film, “The Routes”. This 30-minute documentary delves into my personal reflections on family, homeland, and the nature of non-fiction filmmaking, while also following the story of immigrant artist Hung-Ju.

“The Routes” captures Hung-Ju’s year-long preparation for a solo exhibition, highlighting his solitude, homesickness, and creative struggles. Through a blend of first-person narration and direct observation, the film explores themes such as the nature of artistic solitude, the immigrant experience, and the evolving concept of truth in documentary filmmaking.

What sets my work apart is the introspective and autobiographical approach I bring to my projects. For instance, *The Routes* intertwines my journey with Hung-Ju’s, reflecting on how both of us navigate our artistic paths and the emotional weight of being foreign artists in the US. One of the unique aspects of my work is the way I engage with the subject matter on a personal level. By blending my own experiences with the stories of those I film, I aim to create a more authentic and resonant portrayal of their lives.

How do you define success?

My answer can’t be more simple. Success is finding a path that aligns with your deepest desires, continuing on it, and finding fulfillment along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://aandy7391.wixsite.com/portfolio
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weita_photography/