Cinematographer Yeom Han-lim Says Trust Comes Before the Lens, From Unanswered Questions to Idol Stages
SBS A&T cinematographer Yeom Han-lim explained why emotional connection with subjects matters across current affairs programs, documentaries and idol stages. He also reflected on award-winning work for SBS Special and Unanswered Questions.
Yeom Han-lim, a cinematographer in the video production team at SBS A&T, stated that in fields ranging from current affairs programs to idol stages, one must first prioritize building a sense of connection with the subject.
Director Yeom believes that the quality of a video is not determined solely by camera performance or technical proficiency. He explained that forming a deep bond with the subject eases the tension on set, which in turn allows for the extraction of the most truthful and vivid scenes.
Commonality between ‘Unanswered Questions’ and Idol Stages
Director Yeom's scope of work is broad. In documentaries and current affairs programs that deliver social messages, he focuses on the process of opening the subject's heart first to capture their inner self and the truth. He judges that communion with the subject is essential, especially in settings like ‘Unanswered Questions’.
He said, “Whether it is ‘Unanswered Questions’ or idols, forming a bond comes first.” He noted that while he searches for compositions and lighting that can maximize the energy of an artist when filming idol performances, the principle of communion with the subject remains the same even if the genre differs.
Winning the 2022 Grime Award for Best New Cinematographer
The role of a cinematographer does not end with recording the subject. Director Yeom has been coordinating filming environments so that the atmosphere of the scene and the emotional lines of the individuals can be fully conveyed to viewers through the lens.
In 2022, he won the Grime Award for Best New Cinematographer (Documentary/Current Affairs category) for the SBS Special ‘Escape Room Project, Gomson Cafe’. He has also participated in major episodes of ‘Unanswered Questions,’ such as ‘Street Escapee’ and the ‘15 billion won fraud case,’ recording the truths of the field.
While stars and performers stand in front of the camera, it is the production crew's role to decide what temperature and sense of distance those scenes will carry to viewers. Director Yeom's remarks reaffirm his field experience that broadcast images ultimately begin with trust in people.
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