Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shangxiao Qiu. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Shangxiao, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you walk us through some of the key steps that allowed you move beyond an idea and actually launch?

As a director and producer, every idea starts with meticulous research. Once inspiration strikes, my first step is to dive deep into case studies and references. I analyze what made similar projects successful, identifying the key elements that set them apart. This stage is crucial because it helps me anticipate potential scenarios and challenges before moving on to the next phase. I want to ensure that I’m fully equipped with knowledge before any planning begins.

With thorough research as my foundation, I transition into the planning phase, which moves quickly thanks to the groundwork I’ve already laid. I craft a detailed production plan, considering every element, no matter how small, and always prepare a Plan B (and sometimes even a Plan C) for every critical aspect. My goal is to account for any unforeseen circumstances, ensuring a seamless process from start to finish.

Finally, with all the research and planning in place, it’s time for execution. This is where the vision comes to life. The detailed preparation allows me to focus on bringing the project to fruition with confidence, knowing that every step has been thoughtfully considered and accounted for.

This methodical approach—research, planning, and execution—has become the blueprint for how I transform ideas into reality, whether it’s a film project or building my own business.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

What sets my work apart is the deep personal connection I bring to every project as a filmmaker. Whether I’m directing, shooting, or creating visuals, I strive to make each piece truly unique by infusing it with my life experiences, emotions, and creative vision. I specialize in producing short films, commercials, and music videos, and I aim to give my work a soul of its own, not just by following the rules but by redefining them. My unique understanding of color, texture, and storytelling allows me to craft visuals that stand out and leave a lasting impression.

My journey as a filmmaker is deeply tied to my personal story. At 16, I left my hometown and moved to America to study abroad. That transition wasn’t easy—it was a challenging time that forced me to think outside the box and take bold risks in pursuit of something greater. Those experiences shaped who I am and are reflected in my work today.

This spirit of boldness and authenticity is at the heart of my brand. My clients trust me to deliver projects that not only meet their goals but also push creative boundaries. Whether it’s telling a story through a commercial or creating a music video with emotional depth, I focus on delivering work that connects with audiences on a deeper level.

What I’m most proud of is my ability to stay true to myself in an industry that often values trends over authenticity. I want potential clients and collaborators to know that I approach every project with passion, meticulous care, and a drive to create something that’s not only visually stunning but also meaningful.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I used to believe my ultimate goal was to work for a company I admired, but as I expanded my network and developed my own working philosophy, my perspective shifted. I began to realize that instead of adapting to environments or philosophies that might not align with my values, I could create something of my own—a space where my vision could thrive and where I could attract like-minded individuals who share my uniqueness and creative spirit.

This realization has become the driving force behind my journey. It motivates me to work harder every day to build something meaningful—my own creative ecosystem. My goal is to create a space where I can collaborate with others, share inspiration, and provide a sense of comfort and connection, all while staying true to my rhythm and continuously pushing myself to improve and produce even better content.

At its core, my mission is to create an environment that fosters authenticity, innovation, and shared creativity, not only for myself but also for the people I work with. This vision keeps me grounded while fueling my ambition to grow and make an impact.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

When it comes to building an audience on social media, I follow my “HKR” rule: Happiness, Knowledge, and Resonance. These three elements form the foundation of my content strategy. First, does the content bring joy or inspiration to the audience? Second, does it offer valuable knowledge or insight? And most importantly, does it resonate with the target audience on a deeper level, connecting with their emotions and experiences?

By applying these principles and delivering content with a high aesthetic standard, I’ve created a social media presence that feels authentic and aligned with my personal style and philosophy. Consistency is key—I ensure that my posts reflect my unique perspective and maintain a cohesive visual and thematic identity. This consistency not only builds trust but also makes my content recognizable and memorable.

For those just starting, my advice is to focus on quality over quantity. Take time to understand your audience and create content that genuinely adds value to their lives. Be authentic and stay true to your style, even if it takes time to grow your audience. Authenticity resonates the most in the long run, and when paired with thoughtful storytelling and a clear aesthetic, it can set you apart in a crowded digital space.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lukasqiu.art
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukas.qiu/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shangxiao-qiu-a9b96822b/