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.
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.
Work Experience
Worked as an assistant cinematographer under veteran cinematographers Alagappan and Vishnu Narayanan, gaining strong on-set experience in lighting, camera operation, and visual continuity.
Teaching cinematography fundamentals, visual storytelling, and practical filmmaking. Known for blending industry knowledge with structured academic learning.
Vamanan(2023), Moonam Niyamam(2018)
Handled camera and lighting, shaping a realistic and story-focused visual style.
Worked on advertising films for leading brands such as Malayala Manorama and Kerala Swad.
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.”
“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.”
“Working with Arun Sivan is effortless. His understanding of light, performance, and storytelling elevates every scene.”
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
What kind of cinematography work does Arun Sivan do?
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.
What is Arun Sivan's visual style?
His style is grounded, realistic, and emotionally driven. He prefers naturalistic lighting, clean compositions, and visuals that support storytelling rather than overpower it.
Does Arun Sivan work on advertisements and branded films?
Yes. He has worked as a cinematographer on advertisements and branded films for popular brands, focusing on cinematic quality while meeting commercial objectives.
Does Arun Sivan also work as a film academician?
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.
What qualifications does Arun Sivan have?
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.
Has Arun Sivan worked as an assistant cinematographer?
Yes. He has worked as an assistant cinematographer with veteran cinematographers, gaining strong on-set experience in feature films and large productions.
Can Arun Sivan collaborate with film students and independent filmmakers?
Absolutely. Arun actively collaborates with film students, independent filmmakers, and emerging creators, especially on meaningful, story-driven projects.
How can I contact Arun Sivan for a project or collaboration?
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.