Rising Stars: Meet Vishnu Rajendran Nair

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vishnu Rajendran Nair.

Hi Vishnu, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
From an early age, I developed an unwavering passion for the art of filmmaking. I used to watch the same film over and over again, trying to figure out why it looked so much better than regular videos. One day, my dad showed me ‘The Godfather,’ and it changed everything for me. The way they used lighting to make Don Corleone look powerful was incredible. I could feel the intensity just from the way they set up the lights.

That’s when I realized how important lighting is in filmmaking. After I finished my electrical engineering degree, I decided to go to film school in India. It was a turning point for me. Before that, I would make videos and low-budget short films, but film school opened my eyes to a whole new level of understanding. I started learning about lights, cameras, and the technical side of filmmaking.

However, my thirst for knowledge and passion for cinematography drove me to make the decision to move to Los Angeles. I wanted to further explore and learn about the art of cinematography, which goes beyond just the technical aspects of filmmaking. Enrolling at the New York Film Academy provided me with the opportunity to delve into the craft and understand how to bring scripts to life both technically and creatively. It was an eye-opening experience that helped me develop a deeper appreciation for the collaborative nature of filmmaking.

Through my education, I gained technical expertise and learned to analyze scripts from different perspectives. I discovered how to effectively translate the story into visually captivating compositions. Working with fellow students and industry professionals allowed me to understand the importance of teamwork and effective communication in creating compelling visuals.

I am committed to continuous growth and always pushing myself to excel. By combining my technical skills with a creative approach, I aim to create visuals that not only serve the story but also resonate with audiences emotionally.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Achieving success in life requires significant effort, and the career path I have embraced is particularly challenging. Opting for cinematography as my profession without any pre-established connections or industry experience is like lighting a fire from scratch.

My parents gave me the choice to finish my degree while also pursuing my passion for cinematography. Although it felt like a constraint at the time, I now realize that their insistence on finishing my degree turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The engineering degree I obtained has proven to be highly beneficial in my work, particularly in areas such as understanding technical aspects like lighting techniques and operating the camera effectively. It has provided me with a solid foundation that complements my artistic vision in the field of cinematography.

There is an ember in the fire I am starting and it is going to burn brighter every day.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a Cinematographer/Director of Photography, I possess a diverse skill set that extends beyond my primary role. In addition to my expertise in cinematography, I also excel as a Gaffer, Stage Lighting Technician, and Steadicam Operator. My specialization lies in both the art of cinematography and the technical aspects of lighting as a Gaffer.

One particular project that stands out as a source of immense pride for me is the short film titled “The Collective.” This project falls within the action genre, which happens to be a personal favorite of mine. The experience of working on this film was exhilarating, and I thoroughly enjoyed the challenges and creative opportunities it presented. It serves as a testament to my passion for action-oriented filmmaking.

Moving forward, my aim is to engage in more projects of a similar nature and continually elevate my skills and expertise. Each new project serves as an opportunity for growth, allowing me to expand my abilities in every aspect of my craft. With every undertaking, my goal is to enhance my capabilities and take on increasingly ambitious projects.

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I have always believed that without taking risks, true success and fulfillment are unlikely to be achieved. This belief led me to make a bold decision—to relocate to Los Angeles and embark on a career as a freelance cinematographer. It was a risk, no doubt, but one that I eagerly took in the hopes of transforming it into a rewarding outcome.

Now, as I find myself in this interview, I recognize it as a significant stepping stone on my journey towards that desired reward. This interview represents an opportunity for me to showcase my skills, experience, and passion for cinematography. It serves as a chance to make valuable connections and impress potential collaborators who can contribute to the growth of my career.

While the risk I took in pursuing a career in LA remains, this interview symbolizes progress and the potential for a positive turning point. I eagerly await the outcome, with the hope that it will be a catalyst for more significant opportunities and ultimately lead me to the rewards I have diligently worked towards.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @vishnu_rajendran.s_r
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishnu-rajendran-nair-7593491b3/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UComizLrYfVnBGnFQ_0P2bYg
• Other: IMDB : https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13642948/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_3_q_Vishnu%2520rajenfd

Image Credits
Rytham Singla