Meet Qianqian Zhao | Producer, Cinematographer, Director

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

Hi Qianqian, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
My favorite quote is “Trust the progress.” It means a lot to me because it reminds me to focus on the present—not the past or the future—and to take the time to make each day count and be fulfilling. We live in a chaotic environment; distractions are everywhere, and we can be easily derailed from a goal we set not long ago. As a filmmaker, the most important qualities I need are truthfulness with myself, realism, and consistency. Eventually, my work ethic and experience will take me somewhere unknown—which is good; I don’t have to know. All I know is that I am heading in the right direction, with no regrets, doing what I love.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a filmmaker, my art lies at the intersection of authentic storytelling and rigorous craft. I’m drawn to narratives that reveal the hidden complexities of everyday people—stories that, on the surface, might seem simple but, upon closer inspection, carry layers of emotion, conflict, and hope.

Getting to where I am required a lot of changes—changes that were hard to make at the start: a change in career, a change in profession, and a change in perspective. It was not easy because of all the uncertainty and the hard decisions I had to make. It was a risk I needed to take.

I have learned many lessons along the way; staying humble and quiet is the most important. Learning to avoid conflict at all costs and centering my focus on the craft—and nothing else.

Production House 8 and I grew together, reaching new heights because of my mindset. Focusing on craftsmanship is more important than anything else. When the goals are aligned, nothing is hard to accomplish. I am still on a journey to be a better leader, and I will always do my best to keep my focus on our product.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1:

Start with a walk down Hollywood Blvd — see the Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Dolby Theatre where the Oscars happen. Grab a burger at Apple Pan, a classic LA spot since 1947. Tour the Paramount Studios — the only major studio still actually in Hollywood. Eat at Musso & Frank Grill, Hollywood’s oldest restaurant, where generations of filmmakers and stars have dined. Drinks at Bar Marmont or catch a movie at TCL Chinese Theatre in IMAX.

Day 2:
Studio tour at Warner Bros. in Burbank – see real sets, sound stages, and props. Tacos from Guisados – LA’s go-to for homemade tortillas and braised meats. Explore the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures – costumes, props, and the Oscar history. Eat at Langer’s Deli – iconic for the #19 pastrami sandwich.

Day 3:
Hike up to the Hollywood Sign via the Brush Canyon Trail. Stop at The Trails Café in Griffith Park for a rustic, local vibe. Visit Griffith Observatory for panoramic views and movie history (e.g., Rebel Without a Cause). Eat Thai food at Jitlada, a spicy, beloved LA local favorite.

Day 4:
Check out New Beverly Cinema, Tarantino’s revival theater – browse their film posters and see what’s playing this week. Go to Pink’s Hot Dogs – cheesy, fun, and full of Hollywood nostalgia. Visit Hollywood Heritage Museum, across from the Hollywood Bowl, where the first feature film was made. Sit down at Little Dom’s in Los Feliz – cozy, low-key, and often filled with writers and actors.

Day 5:
Universal Studios Hollywood – fun, interactive, and behind-the-scenes movie magic. Go to Porto’s Bakery in Burbank – legendary Cuban pastries and sandwiches. Walk around Magnolia Park, vintage stores, and comic shops where animators and voice actors hang out. Try Sushi Note – small, chef-driven spot loved by locals in Studio City.

Day 6:
Farmer’s market at Hollywood or Atwater Village – sample fresh, local flavors. Try Howlin’ Ray’s in Chinatown – Nashville-style hot chicken, LA-style lines. Visit a live taping of a talk show or sitcom if available (Jimmy Kimmel Live! tapes nearby). End with dinner at Bestia – a downtown LA favorite for creatives and film folks.

Day 7:
Brunch at Republique – a beautiful space with movie-set vibes and amazing food. Chill at Hollywood Forever Cemetery — peaceful, historic, and filled with movie legends. One last meal at Canter’s Deli, open late and filled with character — just like LA.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a shout-out to my graduate Film Production program at Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. I would not be here without Dodge. I am truly grateful for the amazing time I had there—this is where I honed my craft and became a filmmaker.

I also want to thank my professor Johnny Jensen, A.S.C., at Dodge. He taught me how and why filmmaking matters. He revealed the real meaning of being a storyteller and how to be a true professional in this competitive industry. Every battle I have won is because of Johnny Jensen. I am, and always will be, forever grateful.

Website: https://www.qianqianzhao.com

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

Other: IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14214070/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_5_nm_3_in_0_q_qianqianzhao

Image Credits
Production House 8