Meet Bo-Yu Chen | Steadicam Operator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bo-Yu Chen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bo-Yu, what role has risk played in your life or career?

Behind all the glamour and myths, filmmaking is an exceptionally competitive industry where success is attained by the best and most resilient individuals. There is no prescribed roadmap for success, as each person’s journey to success is unique. To navigate this challenging landscape, I approach my path with a mix of confidence, optimism, and humility.

I made a significant decision when I embarked on a career as a steadicam operator. At that time, I had been working as a director of photography for two years, and I was drawn to the art of camera movement. I had struggled to achieve the dynamic shots I envisioned, particularly within the constraints of low-budget projects. It was during this period that I crossed paths with my mentor, Greg Smith, whose passion and expertise in steadicam operation inspired me to take a leap of faith.

Transitioning into the world of steadicam came with immense potential for rewards. This niche skill set offered a chance for me, a relative newcomer, to stand out in a highly competitive field and make a significant advancement in my career. However, embracing this craft demanded sacrifices.

Learning steadicam is a lengthy and demanding process, requiring unwavering dedication. This meant channeling the majority of my energy into honing my skills, leaving me with limited time for other pursuits. Moreover, the financial commitment was substantial. The initial step involved acquiring a rig, a substantial investment that could easily exceed $60,000. I went through several used rigs before securing a top-of-the-line setup, which posed a considerable financial challenge. The first couple of years were marked by accepting low-paying or even unpaid opportunities as I honed my skills.

This journey was indeed a risky decision with a long-term horizon, but I’m profoundly grateful that I took it. Today, I’ve had the privilege of working as a steadicam operator on nine feature films and numerous narrative shorts that received recognition at prestigious film festivals. I’ve collaborated with up-and-coming artists and connected with industry professionals who have supported and encouraged my growth. Equally important, I’ve forged valuable relationships with peers in the field. None of these achievements would have been possible if I hadn’t fully committed to becoming a steadicam operator when I did.

In retrospect, I approach this journey with a blend of confidence, optimism, and humility. It’s a testament to the power of taking calculated risks, the rewards of unwavering commitment, and the importance of staying open to opportunities that may lead to an unconventional, yet deeply fulfilling, path to success.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey through the professional landscape, especially within the highly competitive realm of steadicam operating, has been a true test of resilience and a source of profound enrichment. Initially, I believed that honing my skills would be the sole key to a seamless career launch in this niche. However, reality painted a different picture, and it was in this journey that I learned the invaluable importance of connections. Hailing from the independent narrative world, my initial network predominantly comprised individuals within that realm. Although there was a demand for my skills in this sector, the budgets often fell short of supporting the substantial investment required for a state-of-the-art steadicam system, frequently exceeding $60,000. I observed that some newcomers in the field possessed more industry experience and connections or worked in more financially lucrative markets, allowing them to progress at a faster pace and earn significantly more.
These were undeniably challenging times, and the uphill climb could be quite daunting. However, I remained steadfast, unwavering in my commitment to my craft. I heeded the wisdom shared by my mentors and recognized that the early years in any demanding field can be particularly arduous, serving as a litmus test of dedication and perseverance. I clung to the belief that if I persisted and continued to invest in my craft, I would be well-prepared for the moment my breakthrough arrived.
Despite the hurdles and the limited financial rewards in the independent narrative film sector, I forged ahead. Today, I take immense pride in my substantial portfolio, which encompasses work on nine feature films and numerous shorts showcased at prestigious film festivals worldwide. This collection of work positions me favorably to tackle any job that comes my way.
As I look to the future, my optimism remains unwavering, even in the face of additional challenges presented by the ongoing strike. I firmly believe that resilience and an unyielding commitment to one’s craft are the keys to success. I eagerly anticipate the opportunities and growth that lie ahead on my professional journey, as I continue to embrace the ever-evolving landscape of my chosen field with a sense of confidence, optimism, and humility.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In Los Angeles, the epicenter of the entertainment industry, I would introduce my work minded fiends to the professional landscape. LA is not only a place of countless opportunities within film and television but also a hub for exclusive insider events hosted by professional organizations like the Society of Camera Operators, of which I am a member of, and the American Society of Cinematographers, among others. Beyond the professional realm, LA has a lot to offer. One of my favorite spots is Koreatown, conveniently located in the heart of the city. It’s hosts a diverse array of asian foods, bars, and even late-night cafes. This neighborhood is a testament to the rich cultural diversity and unique experiences that Los Angeles has to offer.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My journey into steadicam operating is greatly indebted to the invaluable mentorship I received from Greg Smith. I had been working as a director of photography for two years, passionate about camera movements but facing challenges in executing them effectively, especially within the constraints of low-budget projects. In my search for a solution, I delved into the world of steadicam through extensive online research. Taking a bold step, I invested in the most budget-friendly rig I could find. More significantly, I reached out to the esteemed Greg Smith, a luminary in the field renowned for his contributions to projects such as John Wick, Westworld, Men in Black, and many more. Greg quickly became my first mentor, offering me a continuous wellspring of inspiration.
Notably, Greg’s Instagram platform, @steadicamlessons, serves as a treasure trove of knowledge. However, it’s only a glimpse of the wealth of insights I’ve directly gained from him over the years. His guidance has been an invaluable asset on my journey into the world of steadicam.
Under Greg’s tutelage, I not only learned the technical intricacies of steadicam operation but also imbibed the philosophy of being an exceptional camera operator. He introduced me to the profound influence a skilled operator can have on a film set and storytelling. Greg’s mentorship was not just about operating a steadicam; it was about embracing the artistry and responsibility that came with the role.
Today, as I reflect on my journey as a steadicam operator, I wholeheartedly acknowledge the pivotal role that Greg Smith played in my career. His mentorship and belief in my potential paved the way for my success. I am deeply grateful for the wisdom, guidance, and unwavering support he provided. My career’s achievements are a testament to his influence, and I will forever appreciate his contribution to my professional development.

Website: https://boyufilm.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boyufilm/

Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10303350/

Image Credits
Vinh Pham, Healin Kweon, Xingyu Harry Chen, Jessica Qingyue Luo