Cinematographer
Nandan Kumar
Award winning cinematographer with a knack for storytelling | Freelance | Creative and budget-friendly | Filmmaker | Creative Minds of India | Video production expert | Leadership qualities | Open to Collaboration
Biography
I am a self-taught Photographer and award-winning cinematographer with a unique journey, graduating in chemical engineering before teaching myself photography, videography, and color grading. I currently hold a postgraduate degree in cinematography from one of the most prestigious film schools in the country i.e. Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) in Kolkata, where I have worked on several award-winning short films. One of them, The Monkey That Tried to Tame an Oxygen Bomb, which I shot, has won an award at the Cinerama Film Festival, in India. I have also won a national recognition award at IFFI Goa, 2021 as “Creative Minds of Tomorrow”.
My artistic vision is shaped by my diverse experiences and my commitment to inclusive collaboration. As a 21st-century cinematographer, I aspire to challenge the conventional modes of visual storytelling by working across different forms, genres, and media. I am passionate about creating authentic and innovative narratives that address issues such as social justice, emotional awareness, and stories of righteousness.
My goal is to remain at the cutting edge of visual storytelling advancements. I believe in the power of teamwork and communication to achieve the best results in cinematography. Understanding the mood and treatment of a script, communicating and ensuring my vision is in sync with that of the director, aligning my skills such that it complements other departments like set design and make-up, and lastly leading my camera crew in a way that everyone from an assistant to a gaffer to an electrician participates in the process of making the film.
My philosophy is that introducing fresh perspectives and new techniques allows films to evolve and grow. Observation, inspiration, and determination are my foundation for success.
Experience
2017-Current
Cinematographer
2023
Associate Cinematographer
• Collaborated with DOP Sukhan Saar Singh on the long format film “Ghich Pich”, which was shot on Red cine camera for acquisition on some renowned OTT platforms.
• Assisted with the planning, production, and post-production processes of the film, ensuring high-quality visual storytelling and technical excellence.
• Worked with a team of camera operators, lighting crew, and other production staff, following the director’s vision and the script’s requirements.
2022
Cinematographer
• Collaborated with the company to produce 5 TV commercials for the 25K Marathon in Kolkata
• Showcased the stories and achievements of disabled athletes who participated in the marathon
• Used various camera techniques and equipment to capture the emotions and actions of the runners
• Edited and delivered the final videos in time for the live telecast
2022
Assistant Cinematographer
• Worked under the acclaimed DOP Indranil Mukherjee on a web series Titled: Hostel Days, a project released on the Hoichoi OTT platform.
• Shot 3 episodes of the series on Arri with signature prime lenses in the scenic location of Kalimpong.
• Learned numerous skills and life-changing work ethics from the DOP and the production team.
2019
Additional Cinematographer
• Worked as an additional cinematographer for an episode of a web series Titled: Paramount (Bhalobashar Shohor) produced by Zee5 Production.
• Used various cinematography techniques and equipment to enhance the visual appeal and narrative of the episode mainly Nightingale Hospital and College Street scenes.
• Collaborated with the DOP Joydeep Dey and the production team to ensure the quality and consistency of the footage.
2019
Directio of Photography
Education
Post Graduate Cinematography
Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute of India, Kolkata
Diploma Cinematography
CRAFT Film School, New Delhi
B.Tech, Chemical Engineer
Guru Gobind DSing Indraprastha University, New Delhi
Award
Creative Minds of India
Received a national recognition award for my outstanding creative skills in visual storytelling and cinematography for the film “The Monkey That Tried to Tame an Oxygen Bomb.”