Meet SIDDHARTH AGRAWAL | Cinematographer & Editor

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

Hi SIDDHARTH, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic or creative career because of my innate passion for storytelling and visual expression. From a young age, I found immense joy in capturing moments through photography and exploring the power of narrative in film. The ability to evoke emotions, provoke thought, and connect with audiences through creativity is what ultimately drew me towards this fulfilling path. Additionally, the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the artistic world provides endless opportunities for growth, learning, and self-expression, making it a deeply rewarding journey to embark upon.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art revolves around the craft of cinematography, where I blend technical expertise with artistic vision to create visually compelling narratives. What sets me apart is my meticulous attention to detail and my ability to seamlessly integrate visuals with storytelling, evoking emotions and leaving a lasting impact on audiences.

I take pride in my journey, which has been marked by resilience and determination. Transitioning from a background in computer science engineering to pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Cinematography at the New York Film Academy was certainly not without its challenges. However, through perseverance and a willingness to adapt, I overcame obstacles and forged ahead on my path.

One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned along the way is the importance of embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Whether it was navigating cultural differences during international education or overcoming financial burdens, each obstacle presented a chance to learn and evolve.

What I want the world to know about me is that I am deeply passionate about my craft and committed to creating meaningful and impactful work. My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s passions. Through my art, I hope to inspire others and contribute to the rich tapestry of storytelling in the world of cinema.

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.
Absolutely! If my best friend were visiting me, I would ensure they have an unforgettable week exploring the best of what the region has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Los Angeles

Begin the day with a fresh coffee at Priscilla’s cafe and hope to run into Tarantino
spend the rest of the morning hiking to the Hollywood Sign for stunning views of the city.
Spend the afternoon exploring Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park.
Have Indian dinner at Mayura in Culver city.
End the day with a late night drive to Mulholland Drive and Joshua Tree national park.

Day 2: Los Angeles

Visit the Getty Center to admire its impressive art collection and stunning architecture.
Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Arts District.
End the day with dinner and drinks at Perch Rooftop Bar for panoramic views of the city skyline.

Day 3: Sequoia National Park

Depart for Sequoia National Park, enjoying a scenic drive through the mountains.
Hike among the giant sequoias, marveling at these ancient, towering trees.
Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the park.
Take a leisurely stroll around picturesque Hume Lake.
Spend the night camping under the stars or stay at a nearby lodge.

Day 4: Big Sur

Continue your journey to Big Sur, enjoying breathtaking views along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Stop at Bixby Creek Bridge and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to marvel at the stunning scenery.
Have dinner at Nepenthe, perched on a cliff with panoramic ocean views.

Day 5: Laguna Beach

Head to Laguna Beach for a day of relaxation and exploration.
Spend the morning lounging on Main Beach or exploring the tide pools at Treasure Island Beach.
Enjoy lunch at Las Brisas, overlooking the ocean and serving up delicious coastal cuisine.
Explore the art galleries and boutiques along Forest Avenue.
Catch the sunset at Crescent Bay Point Park for panoramic views of the coastline.

Day 6: San Diego

Depart for San Diego and spend the day exploring Balboa Park, home to museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, La Jolla Cove, exploring the tide pools
Have lunch in the historic Gaslamp Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene.
Visit Coronado Island and explore the iconic Hotel del Coronado and Coronado Beach.
Enjoy dinner and drinks in the lively neighborhood of Little Italy.

Day 7: Los Angeles

Return to Los Angeles and spend the day exploring Venice Beach, Abbott Kinney Boulevard, and the Getty Villa.
Have a farewell dinner at Gjelina, known for its rustic yet refined dishes.
End the night with drinks and live music at The Dresden Room, a classic Hollywood lounge.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the unwavering support and encouragement of my mother, who has been a constant source of inspiration and strength throughout my journey. Her belief in my creative pursuits has been instrumental in shaping my path.

Furthermore, I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my friends, who have stood by me through thick and thin, cheering me on and offering valuable insights and encouragement. Their camaraderie and belief in my abilities have been a driving force behind my success.

In addition to my loved ones, I would also like to dedicate this shoutout to the New York Film Academy, where I’ve had the privilege to further hone my skills and passion for cinematography. The guidance and mentorship I’ve received from my professors and peers have been invaluable in shaping my growth as a filmmaker.

Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to VoyageLA for providing a platform to share my story and showcase my work. Their support in amplifying the voices of hard-working creatives like myself is truly commendable.

Overall, my journey has been enriched by the love, support, and mentorship of these individuals and organizations, each of whom deserves recognition for their contributions to my success.

Instagram: sidd_flicks

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/siddarth-agrawal

Other: IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14292066/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_7_q_Siddharth%2520Agrawal

Image Credits
Sharath Yerra Reetu Dhaliwal