By: Joshua Finley
Janak Panchal, a distinguished cinematographer and colorist, opens up about his journey, career highlights, and future goals in an insightful Q&A session. With a profound passion for visual storytelling, Panchal has made many contributions to the film industry, captivating audiences with his mastery of light, color, and composition.
From an early age, Panchal was mesmerized by the emotive power of visual storytelling. “Watching films and music videos, I marveled at how light, color, and composition could evoke such profound emotions,” he recalls. This fascination led to formal education in cinematography and a dedication to honing his skills in color grading. His passion for transforming creative visions into visually compelling narratives continues to drive his commitment to excellence.
A pivotal moment in Panchal’s career was working as the cinematographer for a music video for Raja Kumari, which was showcased in Times Square, New York City. This project significantly boosted Panchal’s recognition in the industry, opening doors to a variety of opportunities as both a cinematographer and colorist.
One of the memorable projects for Panchal was his thesis film “Youna” at Whistling Woods International. The project involved complex scenes with animals, water, and fire, challenging Panchal’s creativity and technical skills. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “The complexity and intensity of this project made it an unforgettable experience that honed my skills and creativity.” Another notable achievement includes the opening scene of “Youna,” which featured water reflections so still that it created an illusion for the audience, highlighting Panchal’s dedication to achieving the perfect shot.
As a colorist, Panchal takes pride in the films “Bageecha,” “Kryptonite,” and “First Date,” all selected for Academy Qualifying Film Festivals. “Kryptonite,” in particular, holds a special place in his heart. He explains, “Working on ‘Kryptonite’ has been nothing short of incredible. The producer, David S. Zimmerman, was extremely respectful and professional, and the project was very well ordered.” The film was nominated for multiple awards, showcasing Panchal’s expertise and creative vision.
Balancing technical proficiency with artistic vision is key to Panchal’s approach. Mastery over equipment like Arri, RED, and Sony cameras, combined with advanced color grading tools like DaVinci Resolve, enables him to execute complex visual tasks with precision. Drawing inspiration from mentors and influential works ensures that each project resonates emotionally with audiences.
Mentored by renowned colorist Natasha Leonnet and inspired by cinematographers like Darius Khondji, Panchal has developed a unique visual style. He states, “When developing a visual style for a project, I begin by deeply understanding the story, characters, and emotional tone. Collaborating closely with the director and creative team allows me to align on the project’s vision and create a color palette and lighting scheme that supports the narrative.”
One of the biggest challenges Panchal faced was during the production of “Youna,” involving animals, water, and fire on set. Rigorous planning, safety protocols, and teamwork were crucial in overcoming these challenges. He also recalls the filming of the music video “Jaan Leva” under severe time constraints and permit issues, which tested his adaptability and problem-solving skills.
Looking ahead, Panchal aims to expand his expertise in advanced color grading techniques and explore new cinematic styles. Working on a diverse range of projects, including feature films and high-profile music videos, is part of his plan. Collaborating with renowned directors and mentoring emerging talents are also key aspirations. “I hope to mentor emerging talents and contribute to the evolving landscape of cinematography and color grading,” he shares.
For those aspiring to enter the field, Panchal emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, building a diverse portfolio, and networking with industry professionals. “Focus on enhancing the emotional impact of films through your creative choices in cinematography and color grading,” he advises. Maintaining a passion for the craft and staying updated with industry trends are essential for success.
Maintaining creative inspiration involves engaging with diverse influences, taking breaks for mental recharge, and collaborating with peers. Panchal shares, “What I enjoy about my work is the opportunity to continuously learn and explore new ideas. Each project brings unique challenges and creative opportunities, allowing me to apply my skills in innovative ways.”
Janak Panchal is a celebrated cinematographer and colorist known for his exceptional contributions to visual storytelling. With a career marked by numerous acclaimed projects and a commitment to pushing creative boundaries, Panchal continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
