Director/DP Yael Shulman was born in Hollywood California and raised in New York City. She graduated from the School of The Art Institute of Chicago in 2001 with a BFA in Film.
Firstindigo&Lifestyle: Yael, what was your first camera like?
YS: When I was a kid in the 80’s, I shot with my parents large VHS camera it was probably a Sony or Panasonic.
Firstindigo&Lifestyle: How did you choose films as your profession?
YS: I was always making films since I was young. It was after I graduated from The School of The Art Institute of Chicago I decided to make filmmaking my career.
Firstindigo&Lifestyle: What has been the most inspiring moment/s so far?
YS: The most inspiring moments have always been that while I am shooting, there’s been moments when something that wasn’t planned and happening naturally turned out better than anything that was on a script or shot-list. These moments are magical.
Firstindigo&Lifestyle: What tells a difference between an amator and a professional when handling a videocamera?
YS: I think an amateur may just shoot as a hobby and not worry too much about the film 101 basics which is fine. I think a professional sees it as a passion and will hone in on the skills needed to make it as their career.
Firstindigo&Lifestyle: What are the basics one should learn?
YS: Three basics one should learn: Great composition, lighting, and direction.
Firstindigo&Lifestyle: Describe your style?
YS: I think ultimately my style is that I go with my gut when I film. When I see something through the lens and know it feels right I go for it.
Firstindigo&Lifestyle: What are your future goals…?
YS: My ultimate goal is to direct feature films.
Gravity from Yael Shulman on Vimeo.