Last Updated on August 9, 2024
Pipine Taya is a filmmaker and content creator based in Chicago, known for his dedication to producing impactful short-form content that resonates with viewers. Originally from Thailand, he comes from a family deeply rooted in entrepreneurial endeavors, instilling in him a passion for supporting and promoting up-and-coming businesses.The allure of short-form content, including music videos and TV commercials, first kindled Pipine’s interest in storytelling through visual media and inspired his journey towards filmmaking. The compelling narratives and artistic appeal showcased in these mediums served as a springboard for his creative ambitions, motivating him to uncover the depth and versatility of visual storytelling. Throughout his career, Pipine has collaborated with numerous artists, fashion shows, advertising agencies and more, gaining valuable insights and hands-on experience in the process. These collaborative efforts within the artistic community have not only honed his skills, but also spurred his artistic growth and exploration of diverse storytelling approaches. He speaks to InspirationFeed about his new podcast, shooting fashion, and what inspires him from the 1990s.
What was your upbringing like in Thailand?
Pipine Taya: I’m originally from Thailand, and I come from a family that is deeply ingrained in small business ventures. This background has sparked within me a strong desire to champion and uplift emerging enterprises.
Who inspires you artistically, who do you look up to?
Short form content such as music videos and TV commercials had ignited passion to become a content creator and potentially delve into the realm of filmmaking. When you search “Thai commercials” on youtube, your view toward TV commercials would not be the same. I also like 1990s and early 2000s music videos so much that I wish people nowaday still make videos like that. The artists like Avril Lavigne, Alanis Morisette, Green Day, and The Killers had raised me and my childhood was fulfilled because of their music and their aesthetic.
Who do you look up to for good content?
I don’t really have anyone in mind specifically, but I know good content when I see it. I just love to consume good content and there are so many accounts I follow that inspire me. Good content is fresh, crisp and inspires you to make content yourself. However, storytelling is truly the main material for good content.
What are some projects you’ve worked on that you’re proud of?
I love working with restaurants, it’s one of the highlights of my job (and it’s not just for the free lunch). Creating content around culture and community is truly rewarding. I get to capture the spark of creativity with my camera lens, and storytell a brand through their dedicated work. I always look at the name of a restaurant, and its cultural origins, and try to tell its story through a local Chicago lens. Creating social media reels for brands is among my favorite things because you get to capture the fast-paced nature of their jobs through rhythmic video editing.
How have you helped elevate and transform FashionBar Chicago?
I’m there to capture every moment, from the fashion designers bowing before a crowd, to the models opening the shows on the first day. I’ve helped create compelling content on the video side of things, whether it’s capturing the flowing waves of a local designer’s garments, to laughter, audience reactions, and more. It’s rewarding because fashion is inclusive, it’s for everyone, and Fashion Bar, The Shows is a testament to that.
*Can you please add that I also worked with volunteer videographers who submitted their footage content to me after the event.
Who do you look up to, as an artist?
I really look up to Francise Lawrance who directed The Hunger Games franchise. He directed one of my favorite music videos of all time, which is Sk8er Boi by Avril Lavigne. This totally sparked my interest and makes me want to direct music videos in the future.
Who was your mentor at university, and what lesson did they teach you?
I was majoring in Filmmaking, but got a chance to attend a photography class in my last semester. I bonded with my photography instructor at university, John Morrison. He works as a professional product photographer, while also teaching. I love all aspects of filmmaking and love the process, from beginning to end, he added an extra layer to that for me, when it comes to photography. John told me: “Being successful as a human being and business can be different things. Try to appreciate the things that you have, like people that love you, and good friends. It can be hard to accept and we are imperfect. A lack of self-esteem can have you telling yourself that you are no good. Rather than bring yourself up, you bring yourself down. You shouldn’t do that.”
What do you hope to achieve in the coming years as a filmmaker and photographer?
I hope to create many more meaningful projects. Not to be more well-known but to inspire others with my works.
What kind of work do you do for FashionBar, The Shows?
I create marketing content for FashionBar, The Shows in Chicago, which is the leading fashion week event in the city. I also co-host of “Fashionbar Podcast” which is available on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
What advice do you have for young artists who want to get into the industry?
Start doing it now. Don’t wait until you graduate!
