Meet sankalp dubey | Cinematographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with sankalp dubey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi sankalp, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Transitioning from a stable career in engineering to the unpredictable and unconventional world of cinematography was a daunting leap, but one that I embraced wholeheartedly. Coming from a middle-class Indian family, the decision to veer off the traditional path was met with skepticism and concern from loved ones. However, fueled by a burning passion for visual storytelling, I took the leap of faith, ready to navigate the challenges that lay ahead.

The transition wasn’t easy. It required me to step out of my comfort zone, to confront uncertainty head-on, and to take risks that seemed insurmountable at times. Yet, with each risk I took, I discovered a resilience and determination within myself that I never knew existed. From investing in expensive equipment to traveling to unfamiliar locations for shoots, every decision was a gamble, but one that I was willing to make in pursuit of my dreams.

The journey has been marked by highs and lows, moments of triumph and moments of doubt. But through it all, I remained steadfast in my belief that the rewards would outweigh the risks. And indeed, they have. In a relatively short span of time, I’ve had the privilege of working on projects that have garnered critical acclaim and touched the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Looking back on my journey, I realize that taking risks was not just about chasing success—it was about embracing the uncertainty of the unknown and daring to defy expectations. It was about trusting in my abilities and believing in the power of passion to overcome adversity.

Today, as I continue to carve out my niche in the world of cinematography, I am reminded of the transformative power of taking risks. For it is in those moments of uncertainty that we discover our true potential and unlock the doors to a future filled with endless possibilities.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The world of cinematography is my muse, my passion, and my driving force. Each day, I am captivated by the endless possibilities and creative opportunities it presents. The art of storytelling through visuals ignites a fire within me, propelling me to learn more, to explore new techniques, and to push the boundaries of my craft. The thrill of capturing moments that evoke emotion and inspire imagination fuels my determination to achieve more, to excel in my field, and to leave a lasting impact through the power of cinematic artistry. It has certainly not been a smooth road; the majority of my struggles, or “journey,” as I call it, came from growing up in a middle-class society in a Tier 2 city in India, not having the right exposure required or the financials to support it either. I think the Indian society, especially everywhere outside the heart of Bollywood, is growing pretty fast, and people are taking more and more different paths and getting successful in them, which in turn goes back to the society to educate them more about it. It was even tougher for me because there was absolutely no one guiding me in the journey, and I had to take very tough decisions along the way by myself to get to today. All of my family is filled with engineers, which was also a challenge for me. I had to face numerous failures, setbacks, social drama, and self-doubt. But like they say, it’s not about the destination; it’s about the journey.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
As a vibrant 26-year-old seeking adventure and creativity, Los Angeles offers a plethora of exciting experiences to explore. I would start my week with a stroll down Venice Beach, where you can soak in the eclectic atmosphere, admire street art, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the iconic Venice Skatepark in action. Afterward, head to Abbot Kinney Boulevard for trendy shops and unique eateries like Gjelina or The Butcher’s Daughter for a delicious brunch.

For a taste of Hollywood glamour, I would spend an afternoon exploring the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Griffith Observatory, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline. Then, venture to the Arts District for a dose of contemporary culture, with its vibrant street art scene and hip cafes like Blue Bottle Coffee or Zinc Cafe & Market.

In the evening, I would take them into LA’s renowned food scene with dinner at Grand Central Market, where you can sample diverse cuisines from around the world. Afterward, catch a live performance at The Wiltern or The Hollywood Bowl for an unforgettable night of entertainment.

I would also try not to miss out on iconic landmarks like the Getty Center for its impressive art collection and stunning architecture. And for a taste of nature amidst the urban jungle, hike to the Hollywood Sign or explore the serene beauty of Griffith Park. There are So many Fun views like the elysian Park, Universal outlook and so many places i learnt so much about the city and have spent endless moments in.

With its endless array of culinary delights, cultural attractions, and artistic wonders, Los Angeles promises a week filled with excitement, adventure, and unforgettable memories for a young artistic soul like yours.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
As I reflect on my journey as a cinematographer, I am filled with gratitude for the unwavering support and encouragement of my friends, family, and especially My Dad, Satish, and My brother, Sarthak. Their belief in me and their steadfast support have been the pillars upon which I’ve built my dreams.

From the earliest days of my career transition, My Dad stood by me, offering guidance, encouragement, and unwavering belief in my abilities. His wisdom, strength, and unwavering support have been a constant source of inspiration, guiding me through the challenges and uncertainties of pursuing a career in cinematography.

Likewise, My brother Sarthak has been a source of unwavering support and encouragement. His belief in my talents and his willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed have been invaluable assets on this journey. Whether it’s offering technical advice, providing moral support, or simply being there to celebrate my successes, Sarthak has been a constant source of strength and inspiration.

To my friends and extended family, I owe a debt of gratitude for their unwavering belief in my dreams and their encouragement along the way. Their support has been a source of motivation during the darkest moments and a source of joy during the brightest.

As I continue to pursue my passion for cinematography, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible network of support that surrounds me. To my dad Satish, my brother Sarthak, and all those who have believed in me along the way, I offer my heartfelt thanks. You have helped me achieve my goals, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

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