Felix Joseph Damien Raj

As a professor in Post-Production Editing and Color Grading at DBIMA (Don Bosco International Media Arts), I specialize in teaching students the technical and artistic aspects of film editing and color correction. My courses cover a wide range of post-production techniques, from mastering editing software like DaVinci Resolve, to understanding the nuances of color grading and its impact on storytelling. I emphasize both the creative and technical sides of the craft, ensuring students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools, workflows, and techniques, while also developing their unique visual style. My goal is to prepare students for careers in the evolving field of post-production, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the dynamic world of filmmaking.

As a Director of Photography (DP) working on a documentary about Saint Vincent and the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, my role was to visually capture the heart and soul of this inspiring organization while remaining true to the authenticity of the subject matter. The documentary focused on the tireless work of the Society.

My approach involved creating a cinematic yet intimate visual language that would bring to life the emotional weight and significance of the Vincentian mission. This required careful attention to lighting, framing, and composition to convey the humanity of the people involved—whether they were volunteers or those receiving assistance. The lighting needed to be both natural and evocative, often relying on available light to maintain a sense of realism and immediacy.

The challenge was to visually translate the core values ​​of the Society—compassion, service, and dignity—while portraying the stories of those whose lives have been touched by its work. I employed a mix of handheld and steady shots to create a sense of immersion in the environment, making the viewer feel as though they were part of the experience. Interviews with key figures were filmed in intimate settings, using soft lighting to capture emotional expressions and bring out personal narratives.

In terms of technical execution, I worked closely with the director to ensure that the visual style supported the pacing and tone of the documentary.

Ultimately, the documentary sought to honor the spirit of Saint Vincent and his legacy, and as DP, my job was to create a visual narrative that deepened the viewer's connection to this vital work and its profound impact on society.

I had the incredible opportunity to serve as the Director of Photography for the short film *Combustion*, directed by Mathilde. It was a truly rewarding experience, both creatively and technically, as I collaborated closely with Mathilde to bring her vision to life. The film's narrative demanded a dynamic visual approach, and we used lighting and composition to intensify the emotional atmosphere of each scene.

Working on *Combustion* was a wonderful experience because of the trust and creative freedom I had in shaping the visual language of the story. The film's themes of passion and conflict allowed me to experiment with contrast and texture, using both natural and stylized lighting to reflect the inner turmoil of the characters. I worked alongside a talented crew, and the synergy we had made the process smooth and enjoyable. The challenge of balancing artistic expression with the practicalities of a short film set was a thrilling learning experience, and I’m proud of the unique visual narrative we created together.