Meet Shahan Rao | Director & DP

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

Hi Shahan, why did you pursue a creative career?
During my childhood, I constantly sought opportunities to explore and manipulate visual concepts. I would capture moments on my mom’s cellphone, reflecting on the results with keen interest. Early on, I delved into photography to satisfy my inquisitive nature, discovering a profound fascination with visual artistry. This realization became the foundation for my career aspirations as a filmmaker—someone who directs and visualizes stories aimed at adding greater significance to my own life. Additionally, I am driven to challenge societal norms through the narratives I create.

What should our readers know about your business?
Starting at early age of 13 with a passion unwavering to any made me a strong individual where doubts weren’t even an option. Working in schedule where all I had was passion and combining that after school hours was a challege. I would be doing school in the morning and pursuing film narratives at night. Directing, shooting and editing my own stuff, until I learned where my passion belongs actually. Pursuing documentary in the initial stage to transition into narrative world become easier.

My leadership approach is grounded in effective problem-solving tactics, which prove instrumental in navigating the complexities of my role. This involves not only understanding the surface aspects of a subject but also delving deeper to grasp its underlying meaning. I excel in finding innovative ways to visually manipulate these meanings, adding a unique dimension to my work.

An integral part of my professional journey is the enduring collaboration with my dedicated crew, spanning over 15 films where I’ve taken on the roles of both Director and Director of Photography (DP). This extended partnership attests to the strength of our working relationship, characterized by trust, shared goals, and seamless teamwork. One of the key strengths of my leadership lies in the adept management of the delicate balance between the tangible realities of the real world and the imaginative realms of filmmaking. This equilibrium is crucial in ensuring the success and authenticity of my projects.

These are the projects that I have been part of in the last two year.

My recent film as a director includes The Jazz Pianist, Pound for Pound, The Neighborhood and The Invite. Currently, we’re in the process of developing a feature film for “The Jazz Pianist” with the aim of releasing it before 2025.

My work as director of photography has includes Nebuchadnezzar, I love you’ goodbye, No Coffee No Cigarettes, Panther’s Club, Strong Black Women, The Shade of Love, The Choice( Award winning Cinematographer), Soul free and Annabel Lee and many more.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I plan to take them through the historical sites of Hollywood, immersing them in the ambiance of the 1940s during the day. We’ll explore the iconic landmarks that have witnessed the golden era of the entertainment industry. As evening descends, the journey continues as we head to Newport Beach for a delightful barbecue experience

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family has played a pivotal role in shaping my journey. Whether engaging in serious discussions with my father, Saleem Rao, who provided a space for open dialogue, or returning home late from shoots at a young age to the welcoming presence of my mother, Yasmeen Saleem, their support has been unwavering. My siblings, Shoaib Rao, Nimrah Rao, and Shahzaib Rao, were instrumental in helping me embrace my identity as an artist, a revelation I was initially hesitant to share.

A significant influence came from my cousin, Faiz, who became my first mentor. His trust in me during crucial moments encouraged me to be an honest artist. Subsequently, Talha Ghouri emerged as my visual mentor, guiding me to comprehend and delve deeper into the meaning behind my artistic capabilities.

The story would be incomplete without the individual whose presence has profoundly inspired my journey into filmmaking ; Roger A. Deakins. His influence has empowered me to visualize things with a distinct perspective and manipulate them with genuine meaning. Roger A. Deakins stands as a key source of inspiration in my pursuit of the craft.

Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13614963/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahan_rao/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahan-rao-9648ab101/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shahan.rao.5/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEJSrUvjDGZmnrUb80cskMA

Image Credits
All pictures are under my copyright and free to use for the interview.