In the captivating world of cinema, where visuals weave spellbinding narratives, a young talent from India is making waves on the international stage. Rishab Chandra, a gifted cinematographer, has embarked on a journey that seamlessly blends his roots in the vibrant Bollywood industry with his aspirations to conquer the hallowed halls of Hollywood.
Rishab’s passion for cinematography was ignited at a young age, as he found himself mesmerized by the work of visionary filmmakers like Sir Roger Deakins, Hoyte Van Hoytema, and Greig Fraser. He recalls a pivotal moment when he first experienced the breathtaking visuals of “Interstellar” (2014), lensed by the brilliant Hoyte Van Hoytema. This cinematic masterpiece sparked a deep fascination within Rishab, propelling him to pursue his dreams in the field of cinematography. “One pivotal moment that ignited my passion for cinematography occurred when I first experienced ‘Interstellar’,” Rishab shares. “The film’s breathtaking visuals and seamless integration of narrative and spectacle resonated deeply with me, sparking a fascination that continues to drive my pursuit in the field.”
Armed with a keen eye for visual storytelling and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Rishab has embarked on a path that has taken him from the bustling streets of India to the glittering stages of Hollywood. His inspirations extend beyond the silver screen, as he finds guidance and motivation in the diverse portfolios of his cinematographic heroes, each contributing their unique artistry to the art of filmmaking. As Rishab looks towards the next decade, his aspirations are both ambitious and grounded. He envisions a dynamic balance between working on feature films as a Director of Photography (DP) in India and returning to the US for projects, establishing a fulfilling schedule between the two vibrant filmmaking landscapes. This dual-focus approach reflects Rishab’s desire to make a lasting impact in both the Bollywood and Hollywood industries.
“Even before coming to the US, I set a personal goal to establish myself by working on at least five feature films as a DP, alongside numerous music videos featuring high-profile artists,” Rishab shares. “This initial phase is crucial as it lays the foundation for my career trajectory.” True to his word, Rishab has been actively pursuing this vision, immersing himself in larger sets and collaborating with seasoned professionals. He is continually absorbing diverse camera techniques, innovative lighting strategies, and the intricacies of visual storytelling, each experience serving as a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal.
In the next ten years, Rishab’s focus will revolve around continuous learning and substantial growth. He aspires to contribute significantly to the film industries in both the US and India, blending his experiences from both countries into a rich tapestry of creative endeavors.”The next decade holds immense promise for me to solidify my presence in the cinematography realm,” Rishab affirms. “I am excited to embark on this journey, where I can showcase my skills and unique perspectives, bridging the gap between the cinematic sensibilities of Bollywood and Hollywood. Films have the power to connect hearts and minds across borders”
As Rishab Chandra navigates the dynamic world of international cinema, his unwavering passion and dedication to his craft are sure to captivate audiences and inspire fellow cinematographers. With his sights set on the global stage, this rising star from India is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of visual storytelling.