Meet Xiang Zhou | Independent filmmaker & photographer

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

Hi Xiang, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business was a decision that stemmed from a desire to break free from the traditional boundaries and explore my creativity in a more authentic way. I wanted to create a platform where I could express my thoughts and emotions freely, without being constrained by external expectations. The process of starting my own business was both challenging and rewarding, as it required a lot of self-reflection, determination, and perseverance. I believe that by pursuing my passion and staying true to my values, I can make a positive impact on society and inspire others to follow their dreams.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I studied film at San Fransisco Art Institute for one year and then graduated from California College of Arts. I both work on celluloid film and digital film, most of my film themes focus on daily life and intimate relationships. I like to discover some emotions from everyday things and narrate them in a plain way. But this year, I’ve been focusing more on the topic of women’s growth. I’m working on a women’s special project, and “She is herself” is the theme of this special. Through this project, I would like to discover the self-consciousness and lifestyle of women in the new era, so that the phenomenal world’s projection of “her” image can be internalized into a spiritual subject with self as its energy, thus shaping the new era women’s group image of “Independence 、Self-confidence、Brave、Query”. “Every new beginning is difficult.” This Chinese proverb encapsulates the essence of facing challenges when embarking on something new. The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was to leave my stable job and pursue my passion for starting my own business. It was a daunting leap into the unknown, filled with uncertainties and risks. However, I believed in the potential of my vision and the importance of following my dreams, so I took the leap of faith. It was a tough decision, but I believe it will lead me on a journey of growth, learning, and fulfillment.
I hope to be known as someone who deeply loved others and worked diligently through my words and actions to make the world a better place. Especially for women, I feel happy when my works or brand can really help someone or generate good social value.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Morning: Start with breakfast at Sqirl in Silver Lake for some delicious and unique dishes.
Afternoon: Visit Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city and the iconic Hollywood sign.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Moon shadows, a restaurant built on the side of a cliff, sitting indoors at sunset with a 360-degree view of the ocean, I took a lot of beautiful photos there!

Day 2:
Morning: Head to The Getty Center to explore impressive art collections and stunning architecture.
Afternoon: Take a stroll along Venice Beach and the Venice Canals, and maybe rent bikes or rollerblades.
Evening: Have dinner at Gjelina in Venice.

Day 3:
Morning: Visit the Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the rides and games at Pacific Park.
Afternoon: Explore the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame and maybe take a studio tour.
Evening: Catch a show at the Hollywood Bowl for a unique outdoor concert experience.

Day 4:
Morning: Hike in Runyon Canyon for great views of the city and a chance to see some celebrities.
Afternoon: Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) to see its impressive art collections.
Evening: Have dinner at Republique, a popular French-inspired restaurant in $Mid-City.$

Day 5:
Morning: Explore the trendy shops and street art in the Arts District in Downtown LA.
Afternoon: Visit The Broad museum to see contemporary art and the iconic “Infinity Mirrored Room” by Yayoi Kusama.
Evening: Have dinner at Bestia, a renowned Italian restaurant in the Arts District.

Day 6:
Morning: Drive to Malibu and spend the day relaxing on Zuma Beach or exploring the Malibu Pier.
Afternoon: Visit the Getty Villa to see ancient art and architecture in a beautiful setting.
Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at Duke’s Malibu while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Day 7:
Morning: Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to enjoy the stunning views.
Afternoon: Explore the shops and cafes in the charming beach town of Manhattan Beach.
Evening: Have a farewell dinner at Nobu Malibu for a luxurious dining experience by the beach.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my parents. They have provided me with significant emotional and material support, allowing me to pursue my passions and become a strong, independent individual. Currently, I am working on a series of interviews focusing on women from various backgrounds and professions, documenting their growth and amplifying their voices through a documentary format. My parents have been incredibly supportive of my work in this area, and I am deeply grateful for their encouragement and belief in me.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muamua_x?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100027111674694&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRBP9KyTeX4rRqIBX4yRvhQ (it’s a new channel, I’ll be uploading some videos about my new project starting this month!）

Other: https://vimeo.com/549450011/747e0d6156

Image Credits
Man in the light, Yesterday, today, tomorrow