Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Zhao.
Jonathan, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was lucky to have started doing photography at 8 and have had cameras around me basically all my life.
Getting to where I am now is by no means not easy. Never having anyone in my family who did anything art professionally meant I never thought it would be possible or acceptable to pursue film as a career.
However, through successes in high school film festivals and unexpected support from my family to pursue film, I successfully got accepted into NYU TISCH Film and jump-started my career there.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely wouldn’t say it is a smooth road, from the initial challenge to getting into the prestigious NYU Film, to baring through COVID and losing many potential films that I was supposed to shoot, and the union strikes of recent years, it has definitely been a fun but rough ride.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a professional cinematographer / Director of Photography. I’ve shot films that won at SXSW, Cleveland International Film Festival, NYISFF, etc. I think what I am most proud of is that I can always design and shoot in the style that most fits the plot and narrative of the story at hand. I think what sets me apart is my ability to create high-quality work when working under pressure efficiently.
What makes you happy?
I love finding happiness in all kinds of different places in life; so many different things can make me happy.
I find happiness in work when my designs and plans go well in terms of shooting, as well as when the director/clients are very happy with the results. But I also find happiness in everyday life when off work, either that is going to play tennis with some friends or just enjoying some good food.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jonathanzhaofilm-dp.com/
- Instagram: jz.film.dp
Image Credits
Richard Chen
Jessica Qian
