In cinema, light does far more than illuminate a scene—it shapes emotion, depth, and the way audiences experience a story. For Netraa Dave, learning to work with light has been the defining thread of a journey that began in Surat, Gujarat, and eventually led to professional film sets in Los Angeles. What started as a fascination with how shadows and sunlight transformed everyday surroundings gradually evolved into a career in cinematography and lighting, two crafts that lie at the heart of visual storytelling.
Over the years, Dave has contributed to award-winning independent films, music videos, and digital productions, building a reputation for translating creative vision into carefully designed on-screen lighting. Today, as part of the production team at Dhar Mann Studios, she continues to shape the visual language of widely viewed content while also representing a growing wave of women entering technical roles in the global film industry.
Q1) Every filmmaker has a starting point; what was the beginning of your journey into the world of cinematography and lighting?
Netraa: I started my career in cinematography in Surat, Gujarat, where I was captivated by the way light could change commonplace situations, from the shine of streetlights at night to sunlight filtering through buildings. I studied photography and filmmaking in Goa as a result of my interest, where I discovered how composition, shadows, and lighting influence visual storytelling. As I kept learning more about filmmaking, I developed a strong love for lighting and cinematography and realized how effective they are at evoking mood and emotion. My journey from Surat to Goa and finally Los Angeles has taught me that perspective and the experiences that influence how we tell tales are just as important to filmmaking as cameras and lights.
Q2) Was there a particular moment or project that made you realize filmmaking was the path you wanted to follow?
Netraa: Working on a project named Bageecha with a close buddy was a pivotal point in my path. I experimented with framing, natural light, and lighting configurations during the project, and it was the first time I really saw how images could influence narrative and emotion. Later, the movie was honored at the Indian Independent Film Festival, the Ayodhya Film Festival, and the World Film Festival at Cannes. My desire to pursue filmmaking was cemented when I witnessed a tiny partnership receive international attention, confirming my love for lighting and cinematography.
Q3) How important is it for young women to see female cinematographers and lighting technicians working in the industry?
Netraa: Seeing female cinematographers and lighting technicians in the field is crucial for young women and children of all genders because it demonstrates that these positions are accessible to all. Stereotypes are broken and young people are inspired to pursue creative and technical careers in filmmaking when they witness women succeeding in previously male-dominated fields. Female lighting designers and cinematographers offer distinctive viewpoints that enhance narrative. In addition to inspiring the next generation, their prominence opens doors for mentorship and advice. In the end, representation contributes to the development of a more diverse sector where skill, originality, and enthusiasm are what really count.
Q4) You have worked on several films that have received awards. Which projects stand out most to you and why?
Netraa: Bageecha and The Three of Us are two of my journey's most notable projects. I first worked with a close friend on Bageecha, where I investigated how frame and lighting may improve narrative. Later, the movie was honored at the Indian Independent Film Festival, the Ayodhya Film Festival, and the World Film Festival at Cannes.
The Three of Us was another significant film in which I served as the Gaffer, overseeing the lighting division and assisting in realizing the cinematographer's vision. At the Hollywood Blood Horror Festival and the Crown Point International Film Festival, the movie took home numerous honors. Both projects were significant turning points in my development as a professional lighting and cinematography.
Q5) What skills do you think future cinematographers and gaffers should focus on developing?
Netraa: Future gaffers and cinematographers should concentrate on honing a blend of technical expertise, artistic vision, and effective teamwork. Despite being extremely technical, lighting and cinematography are crucial creative elements for narrative.
Shaping a scene's tone, texture, and emotion requires a thorough understanding of lighting; natural, practical, and artificial. Technical expertise with cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and grip tools is as crucial, as is the capacity to change as technology advances.
Collaboration and problem-solving skills are also essential. Cinematographers and gaffers must collaborate closely with directors and crew to realize a visual vision on fast-paced film sets. In the end, what keeps filmmakers honing their art is their curiosity, observational skills, and love of telling stories.
