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

Yi, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Transitioning to a full-time career in film editing and digital imaging has been a journey of growth, learning, and perseverance. My path was not linear, starting with an initial focus on Japanese studies before pivoting to the world of film, where I earned a Master’s Degree in Film Editing from Chapman University. This education laid the foundation, equipping me with both the technical skills and the theoretical understanding necessary for my field.

During my university years, I immersed myself in practical experience, collaborating on numerous short films with classmates and professors. This time was instrumental in refining my craft and grasping the collaborative essence of filmmaking.

Networking also played a crucial role in my career development. The relationships I built with industry peers and mentors opened doors to feature-length film projects and other professional ventures, illustrating the power of connection in this industry.

Expanding my skill set was another key strategy. By working as a Digital Imaging Technician (DIT) alongside editing, I enhanced my value on set and broadened my job prospects.

Post-graduation, my journey continued with professional growth, as I edited feature-length films and undertook various projects. These experiences not only bolstered my reputation but also deepened my expertise.

Reflecting on the pace of my career progression, I recognize that while some choices might have accelerated my journey, each step was integral to my development both professionally and personally. The incremental nature of my career allowed for a rich tapestry of experiences, fostering learning, adaptation, and personal growth—elements I value deeply in the creative industry.

In essence, earning a full-time living from my creative endeavors was a cumulative process, achieved through consistent effort, ongoing education, and strategic networking. Each stage of my journey was pivotal in establishing a sustainable career in the vibrant and ever-evolving film industry.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

As a film editor, I bring a distinctive blend of background and passion to the art of storytelling through film. Hailing from Dalian, China, I embarked on an unconventional path by moving to the United States to pursue a Master’s Degree in Film Editing at Chapman University. My academic journey began with an undergraduate degree in Japanese, a field seemingly unrelated to film, underscoring my readiness to tackle new challenges and my commitment to following my passion.

In the realm of film, my focus is on sculpting raw footage into seamless and captivating narratives. Collaborating closely with directors, I strive to fulfill their vision, infusing my creative flair into the process. My role is pivotal in transforming preliminary scene cuts into a coherent story that not only aligns with the script but also captures the director’s conceptual goals.

What distinguishes me in this industry is the unique combination of technical skill, artistic vision, and a rich cultural perspective, all shaped by my diverse experiences. My approach to film editing is marked by a meticulous dedication to detail and an intuitive grasp of the narrative’s emotional and rhythmic flow.

I take great pride in my successful transition into the film industry, building a career that marries my love for creative storytelling with my technical acumen. The collaborative essence of filmmaking resonates deeply with me, offering a platform to contribute to projects that engage and move audiences.

To my potential clients, followers, and fans, I am committed to delivering exceptional work that not only meets the project’s creative goals but also challenges the norms of storytelling. My journey from an outsider to a film industry professional highlights my adaptability, continuous learning, and unwavering dedication to my craft.

My brand is more than just editing; it’s about making a significant impact through storytelling, facing challenges head-on, and perpetually evolving to achieve cinematic excellence.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative, particularly as an editor, lies in the extraordinary chance to enhance every facet of a film. In the editing suite, I find myself at the heart of the creative process, orchestrating the final piece where performances, cinematography, music, and story harmoniously intertwine to craft a narrative that resonates deeply with viewers. It’s in this space that I can truly make a difference, fine-tuning the collective efforts of the cast and crew to ensure that each component shines to its fullest potential.

There’s a profound sense of fulfillment in this aspect of my work. The editing room is where the unseen magic happens, transforming raw, unpolished scenes into a seamless and engaging narrative. It’s here that I get to underscore the vital role editing plays in filmmaking, bringing together disparate elements to tell a story that is not only coherent but also emotionally impactful. This ability to subtly yet significantly elevate the entire production is what makes being an editor immensely rewarding for me.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

My first year at Chapman University was a crucible that tested my resilience like never before, amidst the rigorous demands of the academic program and the global upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Confronted with travel restrictions, I had to adapt to pursuing my education from China, aligning with the U.S. schedule. This meant attending online classes often late into the night, which turned my sleep and daily routines upside down.

Despite these daunting challenges, my commitment to my film studies never wavered. I managed to stay abreast of my coursework, participating actively in my projects and collaborations, all of which honed my skills as an editor. During the day, I also took on the responsibility of caring for my grandparents, balancing my personal duties with my professional growth.

Enduring sleep deprivation, academic rigor, and familial responsibilities, all while upholding a high standard in my work, was a testament to my resilience. This challenging phase of my life underscored my ability to remain focused and driven, leveraging my passion for film and editing to navigate through the obstacles and continue advancing toward my aspirations.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.yiquqart.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/yiqu_edy/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/yqu/

Image Credits
Edoardo Novello