Kismet Cinematographer Paul Yee Named ASC Rising Star in 2024
Kismet Cinematographer Paul Yee has been named one of the American Society of Cinematographers’ Rising Stars of 2024—an honor celebrating a select group of emerging DPs who are redefining visual storytelling for a new era.
Known for his poetic restraint and emotional precision behind the camera, Yee’s inclusion in this list highlights a body of work deeply attuned to human experience and cinematic beauty.
Represented by Kismet Artists, Paul Yee brings a meditative, expressive lens to both narrative and commercial work. His signature style—grounded in naturalism and shaped by his background in still photography—has made him a standout voice in independent film and prestige streaming series. His credits include acclaimed projects like Mo, The Fits, and I Was a Simple Man.
“It’s about finding the right amount of silence in the frame.”
The ASC Rising Stars of 2024 were celebrated with a special feature and roundtable event at the ASC Clubhouse in Los Angeles, bringing together honorees and ASC members to discuss the future of the craft. During the conversation, Kismet Cinematographer Paul Yee shared insights into his creative process, emphasizing character-driven storytelling, subtle camera movement, and the power of visual restraint.
“Cinematography is about emotional truth,” he noted. “It’s about listening to the scene—not overpowering it.” That philosophy has earned Yee recognition from both peers and collaborators for his ability to visually elevate a story without unnecessary flourish. His camera is deliberate and intuitive, allowing space for actors and narrative to breathe.
Yee also spoke about the importance of community and mentorship, especially in a rapidly evolving industry. As someone who values collaboration and quiet leadership on set, he’s an advocate for inclusive hiring practices and creating supportive environments behind the camera.
At the ASC roundtable, Yee reflected on how his work often explores themes of memory, loss, and place. His visual language—marked by gentle pacing, rich natural light, and grounded composition—feels intimate without being intrusive. “It’s about finding the right amount of silence in the frame,” he said.
Kismet Cinematographer Paul Yee continues to work with a core group of directors on projects that push narrative boundaries while maintaining emotional intimacy. Whether through long takes, negative space, or patient framing, his work speaks with quiet confidence.
Being named a Rising Star by the ASC places Yee among an esteemed list of cinematographers who have gone on to shape modern cinema. It’s both recognition and invitation—acknowledging his achievements while anticipating what’s still to come.
Yee’s presence on the Kismet Artists roster reflects the agency’s commitment to representing visually distinct and forward-thinking talent across film, fashion, and branded content. His aesthetic sensibility and human-centered approach align with Kismet’s values: storytelling rooted in soul, not spectacle.
Looking forward, Yee is developing a number of feature and television projects, many of which draw on cultural specificity, cross-genre experimentation, and visual minimalism. His continued focus on character, environment, and emotion signals a strong voice for a new generation of DPs.
Whether capturing a quiet moment of grief or an expansive natural landscape, Kismet Cinematographer Paul Yee brings clarity, depth, and grace to the screen—hallmarks of a cinematographer deeply connected to his craft.
Read the full ASC Rising Stars roundtable feature here:
👉 ASC 2024 Rising Stars: Clubhouse Roundtable