Meet Sharon Shen | Film Editor & Assistant Editor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sharon Shen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sharon, why did you pursue a creative career?
When your hobbies and talents align and find expression in your career, I believe it’s the most wonderful and fortunate occurrence. For me, film editing represents just that. Pursuing this career felt like a natural and inevitable choice. From a young age, I was captivated by the power of storytelling and its ability to connect people across different cultures and experiences. My academic journey in sociology at UCLA further fueled this passion, providing me with a nuanced understanding of human experiences, societal issues, and cultural identities. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for my storytelling approach, emphasizing the importance of narrative in shaping our understanding of the world.

My love for art and humanities made me realize the significance of editing in sculpting a story. The joy I find in effectively conveying a film and eliciting empathy from the audience is immense. Film editing is not just a technical task; it’s an art form that intertwines stories, emotions, and cultures to create narratives that touch people’s hearts. This ability to connect and impact people through visual storytelling is the core drive behind my pursuit of this profession.

In film editing, every cut and transition is a deliberate choice in telling a story, each one building an emotional bridge. The power to subtly influence the audience’s emotions and thoughts, to immerse them in the story and make them feel the characters’ joys and sorrows, feels almost magical. My career allows me to harness this magic, blending my hobbies, talents, and passion for humanities into creating art that resonates with people.

Therefore, pursuing a career in film editing is not just my fortune but also my way of giving back to the world and understanding human experiences. It enables me to communicate with the world in the way I know best and love the most, which is an invaluable gift.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Delving into my artistic journey, I’m deeply drawn to the essence of storytelling and the delicate interplay of elements that define my craft. I take great pride in my ability to seamlessly weave together disparate elements—whether it’s footage, sound, or narrative threads—to construct a narrative tapestry that resonates with audiences on a profound level. This ability stems from my background in sociology, which grants me a unique perspective and a heightened capacity to empathize with characters and capture pivotal moments. With an analytical heart, I adeptly bridge the worlds of visual storytelling and sociological understanding, enriching my work with depth and complexity.

My academic foundation has been instrumental in shaping my storytelling approach, allowing me to delve into the nuances of human behavior and societal dynamics. It’s this marriage of technical skill and sociological insight that enables me to not only entertain but also provoke thought and foster empathy through my films. However, my journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From navigating the competitive landscape of the film industry to carving out my niche as a storyteller, I’ve faced doubts and uncertainties along the way. Yet, each obstacle has served as an opportunity for learning and self-discovery. Whether refining my technical skills through rigorous practice or honing my narrative instincts through collaboration and experimentation, every setback has propelled me forward on my path of professional growth.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Taking my best friend to a cozy cabin by Big Bear Lake would be perfect for me as I love nature. During the day, we’d explore the laid-back vibe of the town, maybe try some skiing, and soak in the local atmosphere. At night, we’d retreat to our cabin, playing board games, cooking delicious food together, and stargazing. It’s all about enjoying each other’s company and the beauty of the outdoors. This trip would be a wonderful blend of adventure and relaxation, creating lasting memories in the heart of nature.

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?
n reflecting on the myriad of influences that have shaped my path as a film editor and storyteller, my father’s role stands out as singularly transformative. It was his wisdom, imparted through a powerful fable during a critical juncture in my adolescence, that deeply influenced my approach to life and my career.t He aught me the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and pursuing my passions, even when faced with uncertainty or adversity. His teachings have been a constant source of inspiration and guidance, grounding my artistic endeavors in a philosophy of bravery and authenticity.

My father’s unwavering support and belief in my potential have been instrumental in my journey. From encouraging me to follow my passions to providing a living example of integrity and perseverance, he has been my cornerstone. His influence extends beyond personal encouragement, shaping my narrative style and my ability to tell stories that resonate with human emotions and experiences. For this, and for the countless ways he has enriched my life and craft, I owe him an immeasurable debt of gratitude. .

Website: sharonshen.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-shen-3457101b5/