Aman (ah-min) Samra is a cinematographer, born in Etobicoke, Canada. He graduated with a BFA with honours in Film Production from York University's School of Arts, Media, Performance and Design.
Upon completing his studies, Aman began his career in the film and television industry in Toronto as a camera assistant. He specializes in cinematography and is focused on projects that examine working-class struggles, as well as those that incorporate formal experimentation in their visual storytelling.
Aman Samra is dedicated to producing work that accurately represents diverse perspectives and contributes to the evolving landscape of visual media. His approach to cinematography emphasizes clarity and collaboration, aiming to create narratives that engage and inform audiences. The film never belongs to the filmmaker, but to the people.
Often times filmmakers are asked their philosophy and approach to filmmaking. This is a difficult question to answer due to the variables that are dependent on the project, for one, my approach to commercial work versus non-commercial work would be different, and even two non-commercial films will have different approaches. With that said, I’d say my approach or point of departure for each film is dependent on what the film is looking to achieve, the film’s themes, characterization and story all influence my approach and the look but the influence that comes above all is you, the director. I am always looking to form relationships with new directors, I am very much a director’s cinematographer. I am looking to translate your ideas visually while also bringing my own influences and ideas to guide you as you guide me. Collaboration is my virtue, a director without a cinematographer is still a director. A cinematographer without a director is simply a cameraperson.
-Aman Samra
If you'd like to get in touch you can reach me at samradop@gmail.com