Daily Inspiration: Meet Subramanya Kalal

Today we’d like to introduce you to Subramanya Kalal.

Hi Subramanya, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
It all started with making travel videos, shooting fashion commercials and music videos. I never thought I’d end up in writing and directing scripted films, thanks to Breaking Bad, which pushed me to start making short films working with actors, I still remember the day when I decided this is something I’d have to start taking seriously and thanks to my mentor “Raghu Dixit” for getting me on a film set for the very first time, I just fell in love with everything that was happening around, from that point of a time it was a eureka moment for me to take up filmmaking and writing, I ended up in Los-Angeles, graduating from New York Film Academy majoring into directing and writing, it’s been a journey of two years of pursuing something I really enjoy doing, grateful to have worked on various projects all these two years, thanks to my parents who believed and been supportive in every step of the way. There’s something about this city that pushes you to the extreme, everyone’s left their families, their friends, and their homes to pursue a dream where they believe in something that keeps them pushing every single day.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has indeed been quite a journey, filled with ups and downs.

There are times when you firmly believe in your work, but there are also moments of self-doubt that creep in, especially for someone who’s new to the city and trying to find their way. However, we persevere regardless.

For me, that keeps me going. Every time I question myself, I ask, “How hungry are you? How desperate are you? Will this define me or the problem?” I’ve always believed in the value of hard work and pushing relentlessly until I achieve my goals. Sometimes life grants you what you need but not what you want.

You never know how close you are to that one thing, that one breakthrough that will change everything forever. It’s like having a blurred tunnel vision, trying to discern just how close you are.

Simultaneously, it’s crucial to give oneself enough mental space and time. Creative work is something that can’t be forced or replicated but must emanate from within.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am into directing music videos, fashion commercials, and producing short films, thanks to my cinematography and editing background which strengthens my visual communicating skills with the artists that I work with.

If I had to pick one thing that’d set me apart and people know me for would be the visuals and the feel that my content projects and clearly knowing what the end result would look like; it’s very crucial for a director to know how each and every shot would play at the edit table, it’s hard if someone would walk up and then decide what it’s gonna be, and that’s something I’m proud of myself that I think too much pre-hand with every shot and scene how it will be played on the screen.

I really care about colors and sound design, I say it’s something that would break or make the project, off course story is the foundation of everything, but sound and music is very crucial for me when I start planning for a production paired with the editing magic.

What were you like growing up?
Well, my first dream was to become an astronaut, and later, a chemical engineer. However, it turned out that math and physics were not my strong suits.

As I grew up, I was quite an introverted kid, but looking back now, I’m grateful for that because it really helped me observe things quietly.

For a certain period of time, I developed a keen interest in business management and marketing. Completing my bachelor’s degree in marketing and business management paved the way for me to explore various opportunities. Meeting with clients, planning pitches, and everything in between—I credit my bachelor in marketing for providing me with the opportunities that ultimately shaped my interests.

Pricing:

• $1500 -$2000: music video
• $750 – $950: fashion commercials
• $550 – $850: editing
• $450: color grading

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.okaymars.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/subramanya_kalal/?hl=en

Image Credits
William Nahed Sohum Pulekar Lokii Reis De Silva Allan R