Changyi Yu is a talented filmmaker who has made a name for herself in the industry as a director, cinematographer, and gaffer. She has recently gained recognition in the international film festival circuit for her acclaimed works, which often feature female protagonists, and has earned dozens of awards both domestically and abroad. Notable among her films are To Planet 2000 (2021), Boxed (2023), and A Virtuous Man (2022).
However, Yu recognizes that female filmmakers often face significant challenges and barriers in the film industry. Despite progress in recent years, women remain significantly underrepresented in key behind-the-scenes roles such as directors, cinematographers, writers, and producers. Yu herself has faced gender bias as a DP and a gaffer, but she remains committed to breaking the stereotypes that exist in the film industry. She firmly believes in the power of women and hopes to inspire other females to pursue careers in grip and electric.
As someone who is passionate about cinematography and lighting, Yu knows that storytelling is the most important aspect of filmmaking. She prefers to use the camera to explore the deeper meaning of a story rather than taking unnecessary cool shots. Currently based in LA as a freelancer, Yu has worked on a variety of projects, including a recent TV series as a gaffer and several upcoming projects as a cinematographer. She is also currently writing a film script featuring Asian characters, hoping to bring more representation to the big screen.
Yu is a firm believer in playing by the rules and knowing when to break them, as she understands the importance of mastering the fundamentals before getting creative. She acknowledges that LA is a bustling hub for filmmakers, and she has found her place among countless passionate people from all over the world working together towards a common goal. By supporting and promoting the work of female filmmakers, we can help to create a more inclusive and diverse film industry that reflects the voices and experiences of all people.
