Sam Lu 山姆祿 [ 呂奕 Yi Lu]
Sam Lu is a New York–based cinematographer born in Hong Kong and raised in Southern China. Having grown up in China and studied in the United States, Sam has developed an appreciation for diverse cinematic traditions and visual storytelling approaches, allowing them to adapt their craft to the unique needs of each project.
Their passion for image-making began in childhood through still photography, and they later deepened their visual understanding through three years of art history studies. Sam has worked on productions throughout the United States, Hong Kong, and Mainland China, bringing an international perspective to their work.
Sam believes that the strongest cinematography is the style that best serves the story. Their approach prioritizes character-driven visuals, thoughtful composition, and lighting that supports the emotional and narrative needs of each project. They have worked across a wide range of formats, including narrative films, documentaries, music videos, commercials, and experimental works, bringing both adaptability and strong visual sensitivity to every collaboration.
Their narrative work has been recognized at numerous film festivals, including Facade(NYIFF 2024, Tokyo Lift-Off Film Festival 2025), Where'd This Swiffer Go? (Raindance New York 2025), Echoes of Creation (Flickers' Rhode Island International Film Festival), and Despite Everything (Big Apple Film Festival 2025).
In addition to fiction filmmaking, Sam has extensive experience working in the camera and lighting departments on commercial productions. They have contributed to projects for major brands including LG, Samsung, BAPE, and 1800 Tequila.
Above all, Sam is committed to helping directors realize their creative vision, using cinematography as a tool to enhance storytelling and create meaningful visual experiences.
Education
New York University Film and Television BFA
Language
English, Mandarin, Cantonese
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