We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cinematographer and colorist Tianyi Liu. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tianyi below.

Tianyi, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The project that holds a special place in my heart is ‘Roadside Banquet’. At its heart, it was a meticulous venture into the realm of 3D virtual shot designing and precise lighting simulations. The inspiration stemmed from traditional Chinese landscapes and roadside settings—capturing the essence of our rich heritage and the serene beauty of our countryside.

The aim was to recreate the authentic feel of a Chinese roadside, paying homage to the delicate balance of light and shadow found in our traditional paintings and art forms. The lighting simulations were crucial in achieving this, as they didn’t just mimic real-world light but also recreated the mood and atmosphere one might feel while witnessing a sunset over a village or the gentle dawn breaking over terraced fields.

What made ‘Roadside Banquet’ profoundly meaningful to me was its narrative. Beyond the technical prowess, it delved deep into the cultural heart of China, echoing tales of old and presenting them in a modern format. Each lighting choice, every 3D element crafted, was meant to evoke a specific emotion, to resonate with an innate familiarity that anyone familiar with our culture would recognize. It was an ode to our past, designed with the tools of the future, symbolizing the timeless beauty of our traditions. This project wasn’t just a job; it was a journey into the soul of what it means to be Chinese, and it reminded me of the depth and richness of our cultural tapestry.

Tianyi, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello, dear readers! My name is Tianyi Liu. At the heart of my work lies a profound love for storytelling, which I channel through my craft as a cinematographer and colorist. I had the honor of attending the American Film Institute, a fertile ground that nurtured my skills and laid the foundation for my career.

Cinematography, for me, is much more than capturing scenes; it’s about bringing out the essence of a narrative, a sentiment that’s evident in my works that have been selected for over 50 prestigious film festivals. My portfolio boasts of selections at renowned platforms such as LA Shorts, NYAFF, Hawaii International Film Festival, Rhode Island Film Festival, and the Taipei International Film Festival, among others.

What I believe truly sets me apart in this industry is my ability to meld traditional cinematographic techniques with cutting-edge technology. I’m proud to be among the pioneers in utilizing high-end tools like the Unreal Engine to redefine what’s possible in visual storytelling. This innovative approach allows for unparalleled immersion and a unique narrative depth in the projects I undertake.

Additionally, I am privileged to be a part of the ASC Vision Mentorship Program, an initiative that resonates with my belief in constant learning and giving back to the community. Being surrounded by esteemed peers and mentors in the program serves as both an inspiration and a testament to my commitment to the craft.

I want potential collaborators, followers, and fans to recognize the depth of passion, dedication, and innovation I bring to every project. Every frame I craft is a blend of emotion, technique, and artistry, aiming to resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impact.

I look forward to continuing my journey in this industry, pushing boundaries, and creating memorable cinematic experiences for viewers around the world.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Being an artist, especially in the realm of cinematography and color grading, offers myriad rewards. For me, the most gratifying aspect is the ability to translate emotions, stories, and abstract ideas into tangible visuals that resonate with audiences worldwide. Each frame I create is like a brushstroke on a canvas, carefully composed and colored to evoke specific feelings and reactions.

In the world of film, stories traverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds. Being able to contribute to that universal language, to capture moments that strike a chord irrespective of one’s origin or experiences, is immensely fulfilling. Every time a viewer feels joy, sorrow, anticipation, or any emotion due to a scene I’ve crafted, it’s a testament to the power of visual storytelling.

Moreover, the artistic journey is a perpetual learning experience. The industry’s evolving technologies, like Unreal Engine in my case, offer endless opportunities to innovate and redefine traditional storytelling boundaries. Embracing these advancements and pioneering new techniques not only pushes me as an artist but also enriches the cinematic landscape.

Lastly, the community and collaborations are unparalleled. Being part of initiatives like the ASC Vision Mentorship Program allows me to both learn from and contribute to a community that shares a collective passion. The mutual respect, camaraderie, and shared drive to create make the challenges worth it and amplify the rewards tenfold.

In essence, being an artist in this field allows me to communicate, connect, and contribute in ways that are both deeply personal and universally impactful.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building a reputation within the competitive world of cinematography and color grading is a multifaceted journey. Reflecting upon my trajectory, several factors played pivotal roles in solidifying my standing within the market:

1.My time at the American Film Institute provided a strong foundation. It not only equipped me with technical skills but also nurtured my artistic vision. Such institutions have a legacy of excellence, and being an alumnus naturally establishes a level of credibility in the industry.
Innovation: Embracing cutting-edge technology, especially tools like the Unreal Engine, set me apart. While the core principles of cinematography remain timeless, integrating modern tech has allowed me to offer fresh, unparalleled visual experiences.

2. Having my work showcased in over 50 film festivals, from LA Shorts to the Taipei International Film Festival, demonstrates consistent quality and dedication. These platforms provide visibility and are a testament to the caliber of work I shot.

3. Networking: Being a part of the ASC Vision Mentorship Program has been invaluable. The program not only gave me access to invaluable insights from industry leaders but also expanded my network. Building strong relationships within the industry is crucial, as word-of-mouth and collaborations often lead to new opportunities.

4. Beyond technical skills, my deep-rooted passion for storytelling has been a driving force. Every project is approached with the intent to evoke emotions and craft memorable cinematic experiences. This dedication to the craft, I believe, shines through in my work and resonates with collaborators and audiences alike.
Feedback and Adaptability: Listening to feedback, both praises and critiques, has been instrumental. It’s essential to be receptive and continually refine one’s approach to stay relevant and produce better work.

In summary, while skills and technical expertise are foundational, it’s the combination of continuous learning, networking, passion, and adaptability that has truly helped me carve a niche and build a reputation in this dynamic market.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.tianyi.lighting
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thef_blabla/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tianyi-liu-4b3508156
• Other: https://tianyi.lighting/new-page

Image Credits
Yukun Chan