Today we’d like to introduce you to SHIYI.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In my early years, I remember that whenever our family set off for a vacation, my father would elegantly seize those fleeting moments with his trusty film camera and a sleek MiniDV recorder. It was an enchanting ritual that sparked my youthful curiosity and artistic flare. I vividly remember eagerly snatching his camera to experiment with every button and lens. As I ventured into junior high, my father, recognizing my burgeoning passion, presented me with my very own camera. Documenting life became my poetic endeavor. Over the years, this passion has blossomed into an unwavering desire to craft my story as a photographer. In my last year at Michigan State University, I had the honor of being chosen as the director of photography for the short film “DEAD ENDS.” I deeply appreciate this opportunity and the trust our team placed in me. Back then, my comprehension of the responsibilities of this role, particularly the nuances of cinematic lighting, was rather limited. I lacked extensive formal training, yet my passion for cinema and photography was profound.
The shooting conditions for this short film were quite demanding, particularly dealing with the harsh winter cold of East Lansing and the numerous night exterior scenes we had to capture. However, amidst these challenges, I surprisingly found immense satisfaction and joy in the process. I felt completely absorbed and entered a state of creative flow—an experience not as pronounced in many other pursuits. It led me to contemplate that this might be the path I wish to continue on.
While my interest in photography and capturing moments remained strong, my entry into the MFA Production Program at USC SCA revealed the stark divergence between the realms of film cinematography and photography. What captivated me more was the potential to employ visuals for profound self-expression. This realization motivated me to embark on a journey to improve and refine my skills in directing and writing.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Along the road, writing has always been something I fear facing. Paradoxically, I am inclined to challenge myself, embracing the necessity to confront that which I fear. I don’t remember where I heard the phrase, “You can’t teach writing.” While reading extensively is beneficial, attempts at imitation invariably culminate in mediocrity. Only those driven by a genuine desire to write can produce heartfelt prose that truly resonates with readers. My fear of writing stems from a long period of avoiding what I wanted to write about. Photography has been a longstanding passion of mine, and I once believed that mere observation of others sufficed. Yet, in the end, I realized that whatever one writes inevitably reflects one’s own essence. Writing, I’ve come to understand, demands unwavering dedication. It is an act of persistence, a craft honed through enduring commitment. Although I still don’t write very well, what I aspire to write now is undeniably aligned with my genuine interests and concerns, what I truly care about, and what I empathize with.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a writer and director, I find immense joy in crafting narratives and bringing them to life on the screen. Simultaneously, my passion for portrait photography stems from a desire to encapsulate the uniqueness of every individual. Everyone possesses a distinctive vision, a personal perspective that, when authentically expressed, unveils their truth. In the realm of filmmaking, I believe that staying true to one’s perspective is paramount. It’s this authenticity that sets one apart and allows their vision to resonate profoundly with others. Each person’s story, experiences, and outlook on life contribute to their artistic lens, shaping the narratives they create.
In my portrait photography endeavors, beyond the visual aspect, I cherish the opportunity to truly know the person I’m capturing. Beyond observing with my lens, engaging in conversation and delving into their interests and life stories enriches the experience. Establishing this connection is a vital step for me, as it allows me to understand and appreciate their essence more deeply.
Getting to know each other lays the foundation for a meaningful and genuine portrayal. It’s about more than just capturing a moment—it’s about telling a story, encapsulating the essence of an individual through the art of photography. These moments of connection and understanding are the heart and soul of my creative process. I believe this approach is fundamental in authentically capturing the beauty and uniqueness of each person I have the privilege to photograph.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
“Learn by doing” is a motto I hold close to my heart. Theory and guidance are invaluable, but they can only reach their full potential when we put them into practice. I’ve also come to realize that articulating a clear vision and purpose for one’s work is key. When you have a solid understanding of what you aim to achieve, the path forward becomes clearer, and the assistance and insights you seek from others become more targeted and beneficial.
However, overthinking can be a stumbling block, inhibiting our ability to start and move forward. There’s a delicate balance between planning and doing—sometimes, you just need to dive in, trust your instincts, and let the creative process flow organically. Embrace the unknown!
In essence, the journey of creation is a dynamic dance between envisioning, doing, learning, and adjusting. Through this ongoing process, we refine our skills, find our voice, and bring our creative endeavors to life.
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Image Credits
LOOK AWAY 2023, poster by YONGXI LIN. Screenshots from film. GOOD RAIN KNOWS, This is still an ongoing project. Screenshots from the footage.
