Career Path of a Filmmaker at Humanist Films
Ming's career path to becoming a filmmaker at Humanist Films involved a winding journey starting with an English degree and master's, followed by valuable experience "learning how to make commercials" as a copywriter in advertising. This advertising experience, coupled with further technical film training at UCLA Extension and short film creation, eventually led to producing and directing commercials, culminating in Ming's current work with feature documentaries.
Film Production, Career Pivoting, Continuing Education, Creative Industries, Technical Skills
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Ming Lai
Filmmaker
Humanist Films
UCLA
CSULB, M.A., English
English
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Creative
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Ming's career path highlights a non-linear journey, combining English degrees with practical experience in advertising and formal film training.
2. His advertising work provided valuable on-the-job training in commercial production, including writing, producing, and directing.
3. Ming emphasizes the importance of short films and technical classes (cinematography, editing, digital intermediate) in developing his filmmaking skills.
Transcript
Could you walk me through your career path, starting with your experiences in college? Did you have any internships or jobs before your current role?
My career path to becoming a filmmaker is long and winding, like many people who aspire to filmmaking or just a career in general. I went to UCLA and majored in English, receiving a wonderful education. I went on to get a master's degree in English at Cal State Long Beach.
I started working as a copywriter in advertising, and advertising became my art, design, and film school. I was able to learn how to make commercials while on the job, which was invaluable.
But I felt I needed more formal technical skills. So I went back to UCLA Extension and took many highly technical classes, like cinematography, editing, and digital intermediates. These classes helped inform my practice and craft.
I started making short films, which was an invaluable learning experience. Then I transitioned in advertising from just writing commercials to producing and directing them. Finally, I started making feature documentaries, which leads me here today.
Advizer Personal Links
humanistfilms.com, craftofspeed.com, visionsofwarriors.com