Freelance cinematographer Edan Schiller has always loved film. After studying the subject in Israel and working for an international fashion channel for four years as an editor, he decided to begin a new life in the UK with his wife.

Breaking into the UK market wasn’t easy, without any experience or contacts in the country, so Edan went head first into establishing his own business. It all started with a Facebook post promoting his work which led to an interesting phone call that kicked off an exciting freelance career. Here, Edan discusses how he built his profession out of necessity and has gained an international client list through dedication and a bit of improvisation.

    © Edan Schiller

WE SEE THAT YOUR TALENT HAS TAKEN YOU INTO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY. HOW DID THIS COME ABOUT?

It’s hard to say. It’s not like I specialise in the music industry but it is my favourite [sector to work in]. I get to tell a story while creating incredibly interesting visuals quickly. I don’t have to give away years of my life like when I’m working on a film as most music videos don’t take more than a few months to make. I love music!

DO YOU PREFER WORKING WITH ARTISTS/ MUSICIANS WHOSE WORK YOU LIKE OR ARE FAMILIAR WITH?

I am open-minded. All I need is a connection with the music or the art. I wouldn’t say that I’m the most fashionable guy but I may be interested in a particular aesthetic and create a story through that. With music, I tap into the atmosphere and vibe of the song and put my own stamp on it.

© Edan Schiller

HOW DO YOU GET THE MUSICIAN/ARTIST TO TRUST YOU ON A SHOOT?

I discuss my ideas with them and if they like it, then great. If they don’t, we carry on discussing ideas until we reach common ground. Some artists have their own vision and are very stubborn. Sometimes, this doesn’t work.

With music, it’s important to have an emotional connection, if not, maybe someone else can do a better job.

The job relies on the passion of the person, especially with music, my views, and the client needs to be on the same page.

YOU HAVE A FEW POSITIVE RECOMMENDATIONS ON YOUR FREELANCER CLUB PROFILE. DO YOU STILL KEEP IN TOUCH WITH PAST CLIENTS AND HOW DO YOU RETAIN A POSITIVE RELATIONSHIP?

I love to meet new and talented people. London is a very busy place and it’s hard to keep in touch with people. It’s so hard to find people who are good at what they do as well as being easy to collaborate and work with. If you find someone who is good at both – hold on to them!

© Edan Schiller

YOU USED TO SPECIALISE IN CREATING FASHION FILMS BUT THEN BECAME A FREELANCER. WHY DID YOU MAKE THIS JUMP, DID YOU WANT TO EXPLORE DIFFERENT INDUSTRIES?

I did it because I quit my job at the fashion channel and moved to the UK. I see myself as a storyteller, whether that’s through documentary, fashion, music or corporate videos. I get bored doing the same thing and prefer diversity, that’s why I take on a lot of different roles on set, I write, edit, film and direct. It’s nice to relax while doing something quite simple and corporate and sometimes I love being really out there and creative.

WOULD YOU SAY THAT YOU HAVE A SPECIALISM, TODAY?

I work in the video industry, my job is mainly in cinematography and editing. I do different things, but I don’t veer too far away from film and video.

© Edan Schiller

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT WORKING ON IN THE FUTURE?

Right now I am really excited about working on this new music video for this talented young artist that I found online. I found a man who works in real estate and works to help and sponsor young artists and he’ll be sponsoring this upcoming project. I want to focus more on music videos as I really enjoy making them. I like to go with the flow and see what comes my way. The most interesting projects I’ve done in the past have come out of nowhere.

To see more of Edan's work, click here.