Saket Raut is a distinguished filmmaker, cinematographer, and gaffer who has carved a unique niche for himself in the film industry.
Saket Raut
With a passion that ignited during his childhood, Saket's journey into filmmaking began with a simple Sony Handycam and blossomed into a professional career, where he has worked on an impressive array of projects, including commercials for luxury car brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, and Ferrari. His pursuit of excellence led him to the New York Film Academy, where he honed his craft under the mentorship of renowned industry professionals. With experience spanning over 20 short films and notable feature films such as Blow for Blow and Processing Charlie, Saket is committed to pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling. His work is defined by a keen eye for detail, a deep understanding of lighting, and an unwavering dedication to his craft, making him a rising star in the world of filmmaking.
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Let's delve deeper into the interview with Saket Raut to uncover more of his valuable insights.
Q1) Tell us about your early life. How did your upbringing influence your passion for filmmaking?
Saket Raut: My journey into video production began with my father’s Sony Handycam, sparking a fascination with capturing moments that evolved into a passion for creating compelling automotive videos. As my interest deepened, I transitioned from a hobbyist to a professional, filming school festivals and events, where I honed my skills in storytelling and dynamic content creation. These early experiences taught me to adapt to different shooting conditions and enhanced my appreciation for filmmaking. This foundation set the stage for my career, fueling a commitment to producing engaging video content and exploring the diverse aspects of the industry.
Q2) What inspired you to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Media, and how did that experience shape your career path?
Saket Raut: My pursuit of a Bachelor’s in Mass Media fueled my passion for video production and provided a strong foundation in the industry, from commercials to short films. This academic journey honed my skills in time management, professionalism, and communication, essential for delivering high-quality work. Studying the history of Indian filmmaking enriched my understanding of the industry's evolution and cultural impact. These experiences paved the way for collaborations with top brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, and Ferrari, where I creatively overcame resource limitations to produce compelling visual content, showcasing both technical expertise and innovative thinking.
Q3) Moving to the United States is a big step. What were the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning from India to the US?
Saket Raut: Moving to the United States from India was a significant step that came with challenges, particularly in adapting to a new culture and work environment. The differences in lifestyle, social norms, and professional expectations required careful adjustment. Understanding the distinct communication styles and work-life balance in the US took time. However, the experience has been immensely rewarding, broadening my perspective and offering valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth. This transition enriched my understanding of a new culture and provided access to resources and networking that have been crucial in advancing my filmmaking career.
Q4) How did your time at the New York Film Academy contribute to your growth as a filmmaker, DP, and Gaffer?
Saket Raut: Before attending the New York Film Academy (NYFA), my filmmaking opportunities were limited. Seeking growth, I immersed myself in a new environment at NYFA, where I explored cinematography, lighting, and collaboration. Surrounded by passionate filmmakers, I was inspired by the supportive atmosphere. Under the guidance of renowned instructors like Anthony Richmond ASC, BSC, David Armstrong, and Jacek Laskus ASC, PSC, I transitioned from videographer to cinematographer, gaining a deeper understanding of framing, lighting, composition, and color. Access to top-tier equipment and expert mentorship was instrumental in this transformation.
Q5) What drew you specifically to the field of lighting within filmmaking? Was there a particular moment or project that solidified this interest for you?
Saket Raut: Working as a grip on various sets sparked my interest in lighting, which was further ignited by the film ‘Persona’ and Sven Nykvist's techniques. This film revealed the profound impact lighting has on visual storytelling. To deepen my knowledge, I connected with gaffers and worked at CAM Light and Grip, where I learned about lighting equipment. The blend of technical skill and creative vision required in lighting fascinated me, driving my passion to use light to shape mood, atmosphere, and visual impact.
Q6) Can you share some insights about the two feature films you’ve worked on? What roles did you play, and what were the most rewarding aspects of these projects?
Saket Raut: Working on Blow for Blow and Processing Charlie was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. In Blow for Blow, directed by Rigan Machado, I focused on creating a tense atmosphere through precise lighting, especially during the intricate fight scenes across large sets. Conversely, Processing Charlie presented a unique challenge and reward with its 4:3 aspect ratio and black-and-white style, pushing me to experiment with new techniques and achieve an innovative, impactful visual look.
Q7) With over 20 short films in your portfolio within the past year, how do you manage such a high volume of work while maintaining quality?
Saket Raut: Starting as a grip, I've learned valuable lessons from seasoned gaffers that have shaped my work approach. To manage a high workload while ensuring quality, I focus on both pre-production and on-set practices. In pre-production, I conduct thorough location scouting and circuit board inspections to mitigate fire hazards. I also collaborate with producers on budgeting, ensuring we secure the necessary gear and crew, and adapt to any equipment limitations. On set, I maintain an organized workspace and work closely with the Production Designer and DP to meet the project's visual objectives, prioritizing safety and delivering top-notch results.
Q8) What are your long-term career goals in the film industry? Are there specific types of projects or collaborations you aspire to be part of?
Saket Raut: In terms of my long-term career goals, I am deeply passionate about exploring a wide range of creative opportunities. My interest spans various genres and formats, including music videos, commercials, and films. I thrive on experimenting with different looks and tones to craft visually compelling and unique frames. I am committed to never being confined to a single style or medium, constantly seeking to create diverse and captivating content. Additionally, I am enthusiastic about collaborating with a broad spectrum of talent, embracing every opportunity to work with others who share a passion for innovative and beautiful storytelling.
Q9) What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers and gaffers who are looking to break into the industry, especially those from Mumbai?
Saket Raut: Always be ready to learn new things, stay confident on set, and never walk with the attitude that you own the place. Observe your surroundings, and give your hundred percent to make a scene look as natural as possible, ensuring that the audience connects to the story in the best way.
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