
BIO
02

Varun Alagar
Varun Alagar Surendran is a highly acclaimed wildlife cinematographer from India known for his expertise in capturing challenging wildlife sequences. With a background in animal behavior, he specializes in using long lens, gimbal, and aerial techniques to craft visually stunning stories. Varun has directed a notable international wildlife documentary and has worked with major broadcasters, earning a reputation for his strong work ethic, wildlife knowledge, and ability to handle shoots under pressure.
Over the past ten years, Varun has filmed in diverse and often extreme locations across India, showcasing a unique and observant style that highlights the raw beauty of wildlife. His work is characterized by a commitment to respecting nature and a dedication to getting the perfect shot. Varun's motto, "Empathise, Educate, and Entertain," reflects his approach to wildlife cinematography and storytelling.
Credits
DIRECTOR & DoP, ORF, NDR, Nat Geo, ARTE,+ Co-Production
Nicobar Islands , 2022-2024
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, BBC
ASIA, 2023-2024
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, BBC
PLANET EARTH 3, 2022-2023
DIRECTOR & DoP, BLACKBOX FILMS,- BIRD DOCUMENTARY
under NDA, 2021-2024
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY, THE GAIA PEOPLE
Nat Geo Wild, 2022-2023
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY, THE GAIA PEOPLE
ON THE BRINK S3, 2022-2023
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL
CHANGE MAKERS, 2021
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, MUDSKIPPER LABS
WILD MUMBAI, 2021
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY,
ORF
CLIMATE CHANGE, 2021
PRODUCER, DR. VENKITACHALAM R./ARULAGAM/DISNEY NATURE FUND
GADHALI, 2020
PRODUCER, GOVT. UT LADAKH, INDIA
2019 – 2020
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, BBC - PRIMATES:
LION TAILED MACAQUE, 2019
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, OFF THE FENCE
BORN TO BE WILD, 2019
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, THE GAIA PEOPLE
ON THE BRINK S2, 2019
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY,
OTF
INTO THE WILD INDIA, 2017-18
PRODUCER, MADHYA PRADESH FOREST DEPARTMENT
INDIA - CHAMBAL, 2017
CINEMATOGRAPHER,
NHNZ
DEVELOPMENT SHOOT, 2016
CINEMATOGRAPHER,
NAT GEO
DEVELOPMENT SHOOT, 2015
Awards
Winner, Cinematography - Royal Television Society Awards.
UK - 2024
Nominee, Cinematography - Royal Television Society Awards
UK - 2021
Honourable Mention, Long Form - Jackson Wild Media
USA - 2022
Behind the scenes


















