FREELANCE CINEMATOGRAPHER IN KOCHI

ARUN SIVAN

About Me

Freelance cinematographer based in Kochi/Academician

     Arun Sivan is a cinematographer and educator with over a decade of experience in feature films, independent cinema, and film education, recognized for his expertise as a cinematographer in natural lighting, emotional realism, and story-driven visual storytelling.   He works across various formats including feature films, independent films, short films, documentaries, and advertisements. His methodology emphasizes emotional realism, visual clarity, and prioritizing the narrative over visual excess.​

Professional cinematographer standing beside a fully rigged ARRI cinema camera on a film set, focusing intently on the shot while wearing a light-colored patterned shirt. The camera is mounted on a tripod with matte box, follow focus, cables, and monitoring accessories visible, highlighting a behind-the-scenes filmmaking environment with soft indoor lighting and a blurred background suggesting crew activity.

What Services I'm Providing

Advertisement / Ad Films Cinematographer

Professional cinematography for advertisements and brand films, focused on strong visuals, natural lighting, and clear storytelling that connects with audiences.

 

 

 

Film-Cinematographer

Cinematography for films that blends visual depth, mood-driven lighting, and intentional framing to enhance story, emotion, and the director’s vision.

Cinematography Academician

Experienced cinematography educator – offering practical film education, visual storytelling fundamentals, and hands-on training grounded in real-world filmmaking. 

Work Experience

Feature Films | Early Career
2012-2015

Worked as an assistant cinematographer under veteran cinematographers Alagappan and Vishnu Narayanan, gaining strong on-set experience in lighting, camera operation, and visual continuity.

Cinematography Academician
2013-Present

Teaching cinematography fundamentals, visual storytelling, and practical filmmaking. Known for blending industry knowledge with structured academic learning.

Independent Films | Cinematographer
2018-Present

Vamanan(2023), Moonam Niyamam(2018)
Handled camera and lighting, shaping a realistic and story-focused visual style.

Ad Films | Cinematographer
2012-Present

Worked on advertising films for leading brands such as Malayala Manorama and Kerala Swad.

Documentary Cinematographer
2014-Present

  A research-based documentary on Kerala’s West Coast Canal system, shot with a naturalistic and observational visual approach.

My Portfolio

What Directors Says

 “Working with Arun Sivan has been a rewarding creative experience. His calm presence on set, strong technical skill, and exceptional eye for framing consistently elevate the storytelling. With a masterful use of natural light, he creates visuals that feel cinematic, authentic, and emotionally grounded. A true professional cinematographer.”

 Jithu Krishnan

“Working with Arun on the film was a special experience. A gifted cinematographer, he transforms moments into emotion through his lens, delivering visuals that are both inspiring and deeply satisfying.”

Sourab Kumar

“Working with Arun Sivan is effortless. His understanding of light, performance, and storytelling elevates every scene.”

Nobel Peter

FAQs

Who is Arun Sivan?

Arun Sivan is a professional cinematographer and film academician with over a decade of experience in feature films, independent cinema, advertisements, and visual media education. He is known for natural lighting, grounded visuals, and story-driven cinematography

Arun works across feature films, independent films, short films, documentaries, and advertisements. His approach focuses on emotional realism, visual clarity, and serving the narrative rather than visual excess.​

His style is grounded, realistic, and emotionally driven. He prefers naturalistic lighting, clean compositions, and visuals that support storytelling rather than overpower it.

Yes. He has worked as a cinematographer on advertisements and branded films for popular brands, focusing on cinematic quality while meeting commercial objectives.

Yes. Arun Sivan has been working as a cinematography academician since 2013. He teaches cinematography fundamentals, visual storytelling, and practical filmmaking, combining industry experience with structured academic learning.

He holds a Master’s degree (MA) in Cinema and Television and has trained under experienced industry professionals before establishing himself as an independent cinematographer and educator.

Yes. He has worked as an assistant cinematographer with veteran cinematographers, gaining strong on-set experience in feature films and large productions.

Absolutely. Arun actively collaborates with film students, independent filmmakers, and emerging creators, especially on meaningful, story-driven projects.

You can reach out through the contact section of this website or via the provided email/social links for project discussions, collaborations, or academic inquiries.

CONTACT ME