‘I learned cinematography from YouTube:’ Nimish Ravi

From making short films during college to working on some of South India’s most visually stunning films, Nimish Ravi, the young cinematographer behind ‘Luca’, ‘Kurup’, ‘Rorschach’ and ‘Lucky Bhaskar’, has carved a niche for himself. Speaking to Malayala Manorama, Nimish opens up about his beginnings, creative process, collaborations with Dulquer Salmaan and Mammootty, and his dream of working with Suriya.

How did you land your debut movie ‘Luca’?
I had cranked the camera for my friends’ projects while studying visual communication. ‘Luca’ director Arun Bose was my professor in college. He had seen my final project and was planning a film then. I happened to join the project, and instead of hiring a senior cinematographer, he trusted me. I consider that a huge blessing.

Were the visuals of ‘Luca’ inspired by Van Gogh’s paintings?
While looking for references, we came across a Van Gogh painting that matched the tone we wanted. The character’s look was finalised based on that.

You’ve often said you learned cinematography through YouTube videos?
I haven’t studied in any film school. These days, we learn a lot from YouTube. Once, Dulquer asked me where I learned cinematography, and I told him it was from YouTube.

How did you get the chance to work in ‘Kurup’?
Director Sreenath initially wanted a senior cinematographer for ‘Kurup’. When that person backed out, the team was searching for someone new. Around that time, a song from ‘Luca’ was released. Associate director Praveen, who had worked on ‘Luca’, showed it to Sreenath and recommended me. That’s how I got the project.

How did your friendship with Dulquer Salmaan grow?
My bond with DQ grew gradually. I’m very talkative, and initially, I wasn’t sure if he’d like that. But he began talking to me because he liked my visuals. By the end of ‘Kurup’’s first schedule, we had become close. He later recommended me for ‘Rorschach’. We spent many days together while filming ‘King of Kotha’, and our bond grew stronger during ‘Lucky Bhaskar’. That was also when Dominic and I discussed ‘Lokah’ and narrated it to DQ.

‘Rorschach’ has one of the most unique visual styles in Mammootty’s career.
‘Rorschach’ was first planned with another cinematographer who had to leave due to prior commitments. I was brought in just a week before shooting began. Director Nisam had a clear vision for the film, and I executed what the script demanded.

What has it been like working on Suriya’s new movie?
I’m living a dream right now. This is my second collaboration with ‘Lucky Bhaskar’ director Venky. It’s a feel-good family entertainer, and Suriya sir’s energy is its biggest strength. I’ve been fortunate to witness incredible performances in all my films — that’s what truly enhances cinematography.

Who is your favourite cinematographer?
All senior cinematographers in Malayalam cinema are world-class technicians. One of the biggest blessings from ‘Lokah’ was getting calls from Santhosh Sivan sir, Kumar sir, and Venu sir. But I was completely overwhelmed when Priyadarshan sir called to appreciate my work.

What’s your message for youngsters aspiring to enter cinema?
I entered the industry at 23 without any prior experience. Today, everyone has a camera phone — make short films, tell your stories, and share them. People will watch. You can even use AI for assistance. Anyone can make films with hard work.

I’m not asking about your love or marriage!
My family includes my parents and my younger sister, who is an architect and married. There’s been plenty of speculation online about my love life, so thank you for not asking about it!