Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shivashish Ahuja . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Shivashish , appreciate you joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Pursuing a career in filmmaking in Hollywood as an immigrant from India is undoubtedly one of the most significant risks I have taken in my life. It was a leap into the unknown, a journey filled with uncertainty, challenges, and a relentless pursuit of my dreams.

One of the most apparent risks I faced was the cultural and geographical transition. Leaving behind my homeland’s familiar sights, sounds, and comforts, I embarked on a new chapter of my life in the bustling city of Los Angeles. The cultural differences were vast, ranging from communication styles and social norms to artistic preferences and storytelling techniques. It required me to adapt and embrace a new way of thinking and creating art while remaining true to my unique perspective as an Immigrant.

Like many other creatives, another risk I still encounter is fierce competition. The film industry in Los Angeles attracts talented individuals from all corners of the world who are vying for the same opportunities. Standing out amidst such a competitive landscape was a daunting task.

Despite all the odds, the lessons I have learned, the connections I have made, and the personal growth I have achieved along the way are invaluable every time I think back. Reflecting on the risk I willingly embraced, I am reminded of the billboards in Los Angeles proudly displaying my work and the remarkable collaboration with Iain Neil, a thirteen-time Academy Award winner, for the esteemed company Module 8, which was showcased at Cinegear 2023.

While the path of a filmmaking immigrant in Hollywood may be arduous, the rewards reaped along the way make every risk taken worthwhile.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am Shivashish Ahuja, a cinematographer based in Los Angeles and Mumbai, fortunate to be guided by the esteemed mentorship of Michael Goi ASC, ISC. Throughout my journey, I have had the incredible honor of being invited to the OSCARS twice, an experience that only deepened my belief that a great filmmaker is akin to a magician, whose storytelling process has the ability to touch and transform lives in countless ways. This philosophy resonates deeply in all my narrative projects, spanning across a diverse range of genres such as drama, sci-fi, suspense, and comedy.

My career initially began in the realm of documentaries, where I discovered my profound love for the art of storytelling. Since then, I have ventured into various avenues, including commercials, narratives, and music videos for renowned Grammy-winning artists such as Billie Eilish and Alessia Cara. I have also collaborated with Grammy and Emmy-winning artist Adam Blackstone for the Super Bowl halftime show in 2022, and his New Album “Legacy” which was featured on the billboards in West Hollywood and got a nomination for Grammy’s 2023. The recognition for my work has also materialized in the form of Emmy wins in the lifestyle and music categories for shows like “Staycation” and my recent collaboration with a thirteen-time Academy Award Winner Iain Neil which was showcased at Cinegear Expo 2023.

Pre-production holds a special place in my heart, as I firmly believe in the power it wields in crafting exceptional stories. I am particularly drawn to collaborating with storytellers who possess a strong narrative mission, fueled by their unique visions. It is a profound privilege to be entrusted with the responsibility of capturing and translating the essence of stories into mesmerizing visuals.

As I continue to embark on this path, my dedication to honing my craft and pushing creative boundaries remains unwavering, driven by the belief that every frame has the potential to ignite emotions and leave an indelible impression on the hearts and minds of viewers.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

The life of a creative can indeed be a rewarding journey filled with moments of joy and fulfillment. The process of creating art and witnessing the final outcome can bring immense satisfaction. As a first-generation filmmaker hailing from a family of doctors and engineers, I have faced unique challenges in pursuing a full-time career as a cinematographer, particularly in an industry heavily driven by connections from friends and family.

The path of a creative is often marked by uncertainties and financial struggles. Balancing the need to manage finances and secure bigger and better projects at competitive rates can be a daunting task. The resilience to persevere and keep fighting despite the odds becomes crucial during such times.

In my journey as a cinematographer, I have come to realize the significance of being prudent with both my finances and my career. Making smart decisions, strategizing the allocation of resources, and seeking avenues that offer the right balance between financial stability and professional growth have become paramount. It is not just about honing one’s artistic skills but also about developing a business mindset to navigate the industry’s challenges successfully.

As a first-generation filmmaker, I hope to serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring creatives who may come from similar backgrounds.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The creative process is often described as the heart and soul of any artistic endeavor. It is a journey that can be both arduous and immensely rewarding. But I believe art has more to offer than just the satisfaction during the process.

I firmly believe in the transformative power of art. A mere thirty-second video has the potential to inspire millions of people, resonating with them in profound ways, regardless of their circumstances or surroundings. However, what truly captivates me as a creative is the ability to craft something that possesses the enduring power to be remembered for generations to come.

Let me explain this with a memorable scene from the film “La La Land.” In the last ten minutes, as Sebastian, portrayed by Ryan Gosling, plays the piano, we witness a crescendo of emotions unfold between him and Mia, played by Emma Stone. Without a single line of dialogue, the director, Damien Chazelle, takes us on an emotional journey, prompting us to ponder what might have been if circumstances had aligned differently for the characters. Those ten minutes hold us captive, as we connect with the story and the characters in our own unique ways. It is the art of storytelling at its finest—invoking a range of emotions and leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.

This is the very essence of what excites and motivates me in the business of filmmaking. As a creative, I find immense joy in the process of bringing stories to life, knowing that my work has the potential to touch the lives of others.     

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ssadop.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivashish_ahuja/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivashish-ahuja-b28678124/
• Commercial and Music Video: https://youtu.be/3NUvUAYpFqM
• Narrative work: https://youtu.be/Gfj6uspGvD8

Image Credits
First image: Ana Sierra Second Image Horizontally: Samuel Flores Third Image: Advait Dewasthalee Fourth Image: Violetta Petruseva Fifth and sixth Images: Ling Tang