Today we’d like to introduce you to Lan Yang.
Hi Lan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am an independent cinematographer based in Los Angeles.
I was born in China, and later immigrated to Toronto, Canada, with my mother. Growing up, I adeptly navigated the complexities of two languages and cultures, cultivating a unique comfort in diverse environments while striving to forge a deeper connection to my roots.
Before my move to Canada, my grandfather bid me farewell with a vintage Olympus film camera from the 1980s. Those initial days in Canada weren’t without their challenges. I was the sole Chinese boy in my class, facing some formidable hurdles. It was during this period that photography emerged as my sanctuary, providing solace amidst life’s intricacies and cementing my profound connection with the world of visual arts.
Before my relocation to the United States, I dedicated six fulfilling years to commercial cinematography in Shanghai, a global epicenter for TV commercials. During this period, I collaborated with more than forty renowned brands, including Pepsi, Under Armour, Biotherm, Avène, Boucheron, and Google. The recognition from these esteemed clients served as an enduring source of my motivation, propelling me to continually refine my cinematography skills, both technically and artistically.
Meanwhile, my unwavering commitment to narrative storytelling remained at the forefront of my pursuits. Currently, I am in the final stages of completing my MFA in Film Production at USC’s prestigious School of Cinematic Arts.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but it has been a continuous path of personal growth.
During my formative years, I was an introverted individual who found solace in photography, immersing myself in a world of images to escape social interactions. Furthermore, my passion for filmmaking set me apart from the traditional norms of my family, where engineering and medicine were the expected career paths.
In a world-renowned TV commercial market like Shanghai, aspiring to become a Director of Photography (DOP) is exceptionally competitive. To gain access to the latest and most diverse camera equipment, I made the initial choice to work as a technical intern at a camera rental house, which provided me with the opportunity to familiarize myself with different cameras but with little to no income. Throughout this challenging period, my wife, Jiawen Han, remained my unwavering source of encouragement, believing in me and offering unconditional support.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Over the past decade, I have worked extensively as a cinematographer, shooting TV commercials, music videos, web series, and short films.
As a cinematographer, I’m proud of my adaptability. I can seamlessly collaborate with directors of various styles and storytelling preferences. I’ve built strong working relationships with these directors, earning their trust to bring their unique visions to life on screen.
My passion for cinematography began at a young age when I discovered my love for operating cameras. This fascination led me to explore the technical aspects of filmmaking, keeping my mind in a perpetual state of curiosity. This continuous learning equips me with the knowledge and skills needed to shape my distinctive cinematic style. I believe that my unwavering commitment to mastering the craft will set me apart in this industry.
In summary, my journey as a cinematographer has been defined by adaptability, collaboration, and an insatiable curiosity for the technical aspects of our craft. These qualities have not only shaped my unique cinematic signature but have also allowed me to thrive in the dynamic world of filmmaking.
What matters most to you?
In my personal life, family holds the utmost importance for me. Within that sphere, my wife, Jiawen, occupies an incredibly special place. She is not only a remarkably talented director but also my life partner. Our journey began during our time at the undergraduate film school in Shanghai, where I had the privilege of shooting all her early works. The connection we share goes beyond companionship; it’s a profound creative partnership that I deeply cherish.
In my professional life, I prioritize the value of a collaborative spirit. Collaboration is the lifeblood of filmmaking. As a Director of Photography (DP), my role extends beyond mere technical expertise. It involves translating the director’s vision into a tangible visual reality while seamlessly overseeing both the camera team and the grip and electric department. This collaborative process is about harmonizing the diverse talents and perspectives of individuals into a cohesive and compelling team. It’s this synergy that breathes life into the stories we tell on the screen.
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