Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Im-Sun Song. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Im-Sun, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
The arts played a significant role in shaping my upbringing, whether it was visiting museums or attending the theater to watch films. During my teenage years, television shows became an additional avenue for artistic exploration. Initially serving as a source of entertainment, the arts evolved into a profound source of inspiration as I began to understand and appreciate them on a deeper level.
During my undergraduate studies, I enrolled in a film explorations class. It was during this period that I discovered the complexity and inherent joy of creating films. Transitioning from an audience to actively participating behind the scenes was a new and somewhat challenging experience. Understanding the intricacies of filming and developing a cohesive story was challenging. Despite the initial difficulties, my passion persisted, leading me to experiment with more abstract films before delving into narrative filmmaking.
While there wasn’t a specific moment that sparked my desire to pursue a creative path, the cumulative impact of my experiences guided me towards it. I also truly enjoy the collaborative nature of filmmaking. I find fulfillment in the creative process, and I cannot envision myself pursuing any other path.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
From an early age, I’ve been drawn to the arts, especially film and television. I’m fascinated by the lingering impact that a great movie can have on me, the desire to want more, and the motivation it provides to create my own stories. One distinct memory I have from childhood is when I was ten years old. I was so immersed in films that I thought Satine from “Moulin Rouge” had really died despite it being fiction. I wanted to make films that people could form an authentic and emotional connection with. As a filmmaker, I draw inspiration from the rich and diverse stories of people from all walks of life, each one offering a unique perspective on the human experience.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most gratifying aspect of being an artist is the opportunity to share my work with an audience. Having invested months or even years in a project, the ability to present it to others and receive their responses is truly fulfilling. It also allows me to see the project from a new perspective and grow as an artist. My hope is that the projects I share foster connections among people and spark meaningful conversations.
Currently I have two films in post production, “Dragonfly” and “Soundtrack of My Life”. These films explore themes of death, grief, and the universal quest to find our place in the world. I believe many people will be able to relate to these stories.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
I actively seek challenges that not only push my creative boundaries but also serve to inspire both myself and others. I am committed to creating meaningful and impactful stories that I wholeheartedly believe in. That is what drives my creative journey. I’m particularly drawn to stories that explore women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
As a cinematographer, my goal is to create an intimate and immersive visual experience that is both engaging and impactful. I strive to create a visual language that complements the narrative and enhances the emotional resonance of the film. For me, the magic of filmmaking is in the ability to transport the audience into the world of the characters.
Contact Info:
- Other: DP Reel https://vimeo.com/793204574
Image Credits
Ian Chen, “Dragonfly”, “Soundtrack of My Life”