Meet Youyin (Inga) Zhang | Film Editor & Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Youyin (Inga) Zhang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Youyin (Inga), what inspires you?
Thank you for having me.

When it comes to inspiration, there are several key aspects that deeply influence my creative process. Firstly, I am inspired by the authenticity of life itself. I firmly believe that the essence of art lies in its ability to capture the truth of human existence. As a filmmaker, it is crucial for me to observe and experience the world around me. Before transitioning to being a film editor, I worked as a screenwriter in Beijing for five years. This period of my career made me realize that artists cannot solely rely on their imagination. It is through genuine experiences that we accumulate the materials necessary for our artistic endeavors.

Secondly, I find inspiration in the authenticity of art. Although it may sound cliché, the only way to truly enhance one’s perception is through extensive reading and learning from those who possess a keen sense of discernment. For professionals in the film industry, watching films is essential. We can learn from different creative techniques, storytelling approaches, and unique perspectives. Movies not only guide us in observing the world but also help us discover and explore those indescribable and subtle emotions within ourselves.

Lastly, self-reflection plays a significant role in my creative process. Real-life experiences touch me deeply, and my pursuit of art drives me to capture these moments. Before embarking on a new project, I take the time to analyze and categorize my emotions rationally: Why am I angry? What excites me? What makes me melancholic? This introspection helps me sustain my creative output even after the initial burst of inspiration fades away.

In summary, I draw inspiration from the realness of life, the authenticity of art, and my own introspection. By observing the world around me, learning from the works of others, and reflecting on my own emotions, I strive to create films that resonate with audiences on a deeply human level.

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.
When it comes to my art, I have primarily worked as a film editor, contributing to various genres such as comedy and horror films. As an instinctive storyteller, my focus lies in maintaining the integrity and narrative efficiency of the story. I strive to ensure that every frame my audience sees on the screen carries significant and effective information. Editing is not just a job for me; it’s a passion. There’s nothing more exhilarating than witnessing the new meaning that emerges when two shots come together on the editing table. This sense of accomplishment is unique to editors and has fueled my love for the industry.

Of course, filmmaking is a collaborative endeavor, and mastering the art of collaboration is crucial. Working with the director, in particular, is a key aspect. It is essential to understand their individual working style. Some directors prefer to engage with the editor during the shooting or even pre-production phase to discuss script and shot design, while others entrust the editor to bring out the best in the footage. Building trust and mutual understanding between the editor and director often plays a pivotal role in realizing the initial vision. Collaboration with sound designers is also paramount. As filmmaking is an audio-visual art form, sound can create an additional layer of meaning. Whether the editor intends for their cuts to be emphasized or hidden, sound plays a crucial role. Therefore, maintaining effective communication with sound designers is essential.

In my spare time, I often take my camera and wander the streets, capturing random moments of people, events, and objects. After spending time working on fictional narratives, venturing out and engaging with the real world and its play of light and shadow is truly moving. Additionally, I also enjoy shooting and producing documentaries. My approach to documentary filmmaking is purely driven by aesthetics, devoid of any ulterior motives. The layers of reality in the world around us are always richer than those in fictional stories.

To summarize, my dedication as a film editor lies in the pursuit of storytelling integrity and narrative efficiency. Collaboration with directors and sound designers is vital, and I find inspiration in capturing the essence of real-life through street photography and documentary filmmaking. The lessons I’ve learned along the way emphasize the importance of trust, effective communication, and embracing the rich layers of reality. Through my work, I hope to convey the beauty and power of the concrete human experience and the depths of life itself.

Ultimately, I want the world to know that my art is driven by a deep appreciation for authenticity, human connection, and the stories that resonate within us all.

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.
I will accompany my friends to Bombay Beach, which is undoubtedly a great place for contemplation and photography. Various art installations are scattered along the beach, creating an atmosphere of freedom and carefreeness. Here, you can engage in any form of creativity or draw aesthetic inspiration from the creations of others. The road leading to Bombay Beach is also perfect for a road trip. With sparse traffic and wide lanes, you’ll pass through vast wind turbine farms, and then find yourself driving alongside train cars on a wavy road, indulging in the joy of driving. It is an ideal getaway, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to my family and friends. No matter where my journey takes me, they have always been my foundation. Their unwavering support and love mean the world to me.

Next, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the world of cinema and the remarkable pioneers who bring it to life. In particular, I want to thank a film called “Thumbsucker” (2005). As a secluded and eccentric teenager, I often felt like an outsider, searching for my place in the world. However, everything changed when I watched this movie. It marked the beginning of self-exploration, making me realize my own uniqueness. I discovered that on the other side of the world, there was another young person who had faced similar challenges to mine, and suddenly, I no longer felt alone.

“Thumbsucker” opened my eyes to the power of storytelling and the profound impact it can have on an individual. It taught me the importance of embracing my quirks and embracing my individuality. Through the protagonist’s journey, I found solace and the courage to be true to myself.

I am eternally grateful for the transformative experience this film provided. It not only entertained me but also served as a catalyst for personal growth and self-acceptance. I am forever indebted to the creators and everyone involved in the making of “Thumbsucker.”

Website: https://www.youyinga.com/

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

Other: Email：zhangyouyin1123@gmail.com

Image Credits
Youyin (Inga) Zhang; Yiqing Hu