Meet Tianyi Liu | Cinematographer, Colorist

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

Hi Tianyi, why did you pursue a creative career?
As far back as I can remember, I’ve always been drawn to art and creativity. Whether it was painting, drawing, or photography, I always found myself gravitating toward creative outlets. I believe this innate passion for creating, combined with a love of storytelling, is what led me to pursue a career in the film industry as a cinematographer and colorist.

Throughout my education and career, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of talented individuals who share this same passion for the art of filmmaking. I believe that film has the power to move people, evoke emotion, and inspire change. I feel a great sense of purpose in my work, knowing that the films I work on have the ability to impact people in meaningful ways.

Additionally, I appreciate the collaborative nature of the film industry, working with directors, writers, actors, and other artists to bring a shared vision to life. The challenge of finding new and innovative ways to tell stories visually, using light, color, and composition, is something that constantly motivates and excites me.

In summary, I pursued an artistic or creative career because I have a passion for creating, a love of storytelling, and a belief in the power of film to inspire and affect change. It is a career that challenges me both creatively and technically, and one that allows me to work with other passionate artists to create something truly special.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Introduction about your art: My art is a distinct blend of traditional cinematography and innovative color grading techniques. As a Director of Photography and Colorist, I thrive in orchestrating the visual atmosphere of a project to elicit emotions and tell compelling stories. My expertise lies in meticulously crafting every shot, considering the fine balance between light, color, movement, and composition.

What sets you apart from others:
What sets me apart is my deep understanding and respect for both the artistic and technical sides of film production. My background in both Cinematography and CG Lighting allows me to bring a unique perspective to every project. I am also trained and certified in specialized equipment like the Tiffen Steadicam and ARRI Trinity, which equips me with a wide array of skills to contribute to a project.

What you are most proud of or excited about:
I am most proud of my work as the Director of Photography on the short film “KODAMA”. It was an extraordinary project that received several accolades, including winning the Rome Prisma Film Award and the New York Cinematography Awards. To have my work recognized on such a level is both humbling and thrilling.

Your journey to where you are today:
My journey wasn’t easy, but it was filled with invaluable experiences that shaped me as an artist. I started my career in Beijing, working as a Cinematographer for cinehello.com. Later, I moved to the US to further my education, earning a Master of Fine Arts in Cinematography from the prestigious American Film Institute Conservatory. I also gained experience as a Camera Technician at AbelCine and now, I continue to grow in my role as a Junior Colorist at Reason Studio Co.

Overcoming challenges:
The greatest challenge I faced was probably the cultural transition when I moved from China to the US. Adjusting to a new environment and learning to communicate my artistic vision in a different cultural and linguistic context was difficult. However, I overcame this by immersing myself in learning and understanding the nuances of storytelling in different cultures. This experience has in fact enriched my perspective and diversified my cinematographic style.

Lessons learned:
Over the years, I’ve learned that flexibility and adaptability are as crucial as technical skills in this industry. Whether it’s adapting to new technology, adjusting to unexpected situations on set, or understanding a director’s unique vision, being open and responsive to change is essential.

What you want the world to know about your brand and story:
I want the world to know that I am a dedicated and passionate visual storyteller. I strive to create visually stunning, emotionally engaging films that resonate with audiences. From my work on award-winning short films to high-profile commercial projects, I am committed to bringing stories to life through my unique artistic lens. Each project is a new opportunity for me to challenge myself, learn, and continue to evolve as an artist.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Hollywood and Griffith Observatory

Start with a tour of Hollywood, visiting the Walk of Fame, Dolby Theatre, and TCL Chinese Theatre.
Next, explore the Hollywood Heritage Museum, situated in the barn where Cecil B. DeMille’s first feature film was made.
In the evening, visit the Griffith Observatory. It offers fantastic views of the city and the Hollywood sign, which you can capture through your lens.

Day 2: Studio Tours and Film Locations

Spend the day touring Warner Bros. Studio. You’ll have a behind-the-scenes look at movie sets, soundstages, and even prop warehouses.
In the afternoon, explore famous film locations around LA. This could include the Bradbury Building (Blade Runner), Union Station (The Dark Knight Rises), or the Griffith Observatory itself (La La Land).

Day 3: Beaches and Sunset Photography

Head to Santa Monica and Venice Beach for some relaxed street and beach photography.
Visit the Venice Canals, another popular film location, and a beautiful spot for photography.
In the evening, head to El Matador State Beach in Malibu, known for its stunning rock formations, for a beach sunset shoot. It’s one of the most picturesque beaches in LA and perfect for capturing the quintessential California sunset.

Remember, LA is filled with diverse architectural styles, vibrant street art, and unique city views that can offer endless inspiration for a cinematographer. Enjoy your time exploring and capturing the city through your lens!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe a significant part of my success and growth in the field of cinematography to two main influences: Dejan Georgevich and the American Film Institute Conservatory.

I would like to give a heartfelt shoutout to Dejan Georgevich, who has been an incredible mentor throughout my journey. His guidance, dedication to the craft, and profound insights have shaped my perspective and approach to cinematography. His mentorship has been invaluable, helping me navigate the challenges of the industry while also inspiring me to push the boundaries of my artistic expression.

Equally, the American Film Institute Conservatory has played a crucial role in my development as a cinematographer. The rigorous curriculum, exposure to diverse film genres, and the opportunity to collaborate with brilliant minds have all contributed to my professional growth. The skills and experiences I gained at AFI have been instrumental in paving the way for my career in the film industry.

These two influences have had a profound impact on my journey and they deserve recognition for their invaluable contribution to my story.

Website: www.tianyi.lighting

Instagram: @thef_blabla

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tianyi-liu-4b3508156/

Image Credits
All the CG images are from Tianyi Liu using Unreal Engine. All the Cinematography Images are from Tianyi Liu. Photo with ASC President Stephen Lighthill is from AFI.