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.
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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
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ASIA, 2023-2024
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, BBC
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PLANET EARTH 3, 2022-2023
DIRECTOR & DoP, BLACKBOX FILMS,- BIRD DOCUMENTARY
under NDA, 2021-2024
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY, THE GAIA PEOPLE
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Nat Geo Wild, 2022-2023
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY, THE GAIA PEOPLE
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ON THE BRINK S3, 2022-2023
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL
CHANGE MAKERS, 2021
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, MUDSKIPPER LABS
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WILD MUMBAI, 2021
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY,
ORF
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CLIMATE CHANGE, 2021
PRODUCER, DR. VENKITACHALAM R./ARULAGAM/DISNEY NATURE FUND
GADHALI, 2020
PRODUCER, GOVT. UT LADAKH, INDIA
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2019 – 2020
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, BBC - PRIMATES:
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LION TAILED MACAQUE, 2019
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, OFF THE FENCE
BORN TO BE WILD, 2019
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY, THE GAIA PEOPLE
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ON THE BRINK S2, 2019
PRINCIPAL CINEMATOGRAPHY,
OTF
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INTO THE WILD INDIA, 2017-18
PRODUCER, MADHYA PRADESH FOREST DEPARTMENT
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INDIA - CHAMBAL, 2017
CINEMATOGRAPHER,
NHNZ
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DEVELOPMENT SHOOT, 2016
CINEMATOGRAPHER,
NAT GEO
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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