When it comes to making films, documentaries, shorts, etc., it is not always the plot line, the locations and the actors; it is so much more than that. It is also about visual storytelling, which can instantly touch the hearts of audiences and strike a chord with them. It is often about how a particular scene was shot and how well it resonated with the audiences, which usually impact the audience’s minds. This is where skilled and talented cinematographers enter the picture, who focus on capturing visuals and telling a story with honesty and authenticity.

The honesty of a cinematographer in visual storytelling plays a pivotal role in creating an immersive cinematic experience, says Saksham Bharti, a rising cinematographer and camera operator based in New York City. Saksham, thus far in his career, has collaborated with major brands like Hinge, Harley-Davidson, Nike, Meta’s WhatsApp, and Benjamin Moore. He has visually shaped powerful campaigns that have left a positive and lasting impact on the minds of audiences. The young Indian talent, who, besides commercial projects, also shot a range of narrative films and documentaries in India and the United States and worked with celebs like Matty Matheson, Sofia Vergara, Kai Cenat, and Raja Kumari, to name a few.

He explains that authenticity in lighting, framing and camera movement allows the audience to connect deeply with the characters and their world. Honesty in cinematography comes from staying true to the emotions and themes of a story rather than forcing an artificial visual style. This means it is essential to use light, colour and composition to reflect the raw truth of a scene rather than capturing the visuals for the sake of aesthetics alone. When cinematographers embrace authenticity, they create images that can feel real, relatable and emotionally compelling.

Saksham further says that cinematographers’ honesty is reflected in their craft when they capture vulnerability, joy, tension, or sorrow. The camera becomes an extension of the story, guiding viewers through raw and genuine moments. When a cinematographer prioritises authenticity over superficial beauty, the result is a film that stays in the minds of audiences for a longer time.

Honest storytelling can shape the future of cinema, proving that truth in visuals is the key to a truly compelling cinematic experience, concludes Saksham.