Ricky Qi

About Ricky Qi

I\'m a seasoned filmmaker, photographer, and National Geographic Explorer whose focus is on human tradition and heritage and exploring how the stories we tell influence our abilities to respond to the pressures of modern life. I\'ve spent the last decade in remote areas like Altai Mongolia, Kham Tibet, and the Hengduan Range among the Mosuo people, China\'s last matriarchal society, chronicling their journeys to adapt to a more interconnected world. These experiences have deeply impacted my perspectives as an artist and storyteller, affirming my passion for authentic human connection and breathing intimacy into the work that I do. A child of two cultures, I strive to tell stories that bring understanding to ourselves and others by finding the universal in the specific. My stories have been featured on publications such as National Geographic, The China Project, and NPR, as well as in galleries such as the Forbidden Palace Museum in Beijing. Follow me on Instagram,@supplythelight.

Experience

1. National Geographic Expert

   Lindblad Expeditions

   Dec 2022 — Present

   Delivered engaging visual presentations on culture, geography, and wildlife, while representing the National Geographic brand and identity. Delivered impactful photography instruction to high-profile guests and researchers on open-ocean, land-based, and private jet expeditions worldwide-Documented cultures and wildlife in remote geographical locations, capturing captivating visual images for publication.

Education

• UC San Diego

  International Studies, Modern Chinese History

  2005 — 2009

Skills

• Documentary Photography
• Film Editing
• Chinese
• Photoshop
• Independent Film
• Film Production
• Video
• Mandarin
• Photography
• China Business Development
• Documentaries
• Feature Films
• Adventure Travel
• Film
• Video Production
• Commercial Photography
• Video Editing
• Directing
• Travel Photography
• Digital Cinema