Journeys often take us across borders, into new worlds, and, in the case of Maninder “Indy” Saini, through the multifaceted spectrum of filmmaking. With a flair for capturing deep human connections and a penchant for powerful storytelling, Indy’s career is as vibrant and dynamic as her subjects.
“My journey has taught me that you never know where your path might lead, and there’s no need to rush.”
Indy’s passion for storytelling was stoked by her bicultural upbringing. From rural Pennsylvania to the heart of Punjab, she learned that every place has its tales craving to be told. She got her start in the theater world, where her work with high-end cameras opened doors to the HD film industry in its early days, gradually leading to where she is today — filmmaker, director, and DIT.
We had the unique opportunity to sit down with Indy and ask her about the evolution of her career, the inspirations behind her most impactful work, and the gear that helps bring her visionary projects to life.
What were some of the first major projects you worked on as a Digital Imaging Technician (DIT)?
My first significant break as a DIT came with the TV show “Arrested Development,” which I joined in the third season around 2006. After a couple of years in TV, I dived into the 3D world, contributing to 12 3D movies, including “Final Destination” and some of the “Step Up” series. Working on two 3D movies with Ang Lee was a highlight, as I consider him a genius storyteller.
How has your technical work as a DIT influenced your creative projects?
The technical side of camera work has always fed into my creative aspirations. From the beginning, I was shooting my own projects and doing cinematography in the documentary world. My technical background has enriched my creative storytelling, allowing me to collaborate closely with DPs and directors to craft a look that enhances the emotional storytelling of a project.
What inspired you to become a director, especially after a career filled with technical work?
I’ve always loved both the technical and creative sides of storytelling. While the role of a digital imaging technician is highly technical, I’ve cherished the creative collaboration involved. My passion for storytelling and exploring emotion through stories drove me back to directing. Directing my first documentary about women motorcycle riders, “Women in the Front Seat,” was a culmination of all my loves — storytelling, technical skills, and personal passion.
Why did you choose Canon for your documentary projects, and how has this partnership influenced your work?
I’ve been a fan of Canon cameras due to their pleasing color palette and the natural warmth they bring to images, which makes my job as a colorist easier. For my documentary “Women in the Front Seat,” Canon’s partnership was instrumental, providing me with a Canon C200 and lenses. Their support continued with my next documentary on human trafficking, further enhancing my ability to capture compelling stories.
Can you discuss the importance of reliable media like ProGrade in documentary filmmaking?
Reliability and stability in media are essential, especially in documentary settings where moments cannot be recreated. My background as a DIT has made me acutely aware of the stress involved when media fails. ProGrade’s reputation for reliability stood by me throughout my shoots, ensuring I didn’t lose any precious footage due to media failure.
Looking back on your career, what advice would you give to the next generation of filmmakers?
My journey has taught me that you never know where your path might lead, and there’s no need to rush. Every experience along the way feeds into your growth as a filmmaker. Embrace your journey, cherish every learning opportunity, and know that everything you’re doing is contributing to your overall development as a creative professional.
Final Thoughts
Guided by an innate desire to seek and share truths, Indy Saini’s path through cinema is a testament to her resilience and her commitment to the art of visual storytelling. For aspiring filmmakers, she stands as a beacon of excellence, proof that the distance between dreams and reality can be bridged with persistence, passion, and a bit of wanderlust. With a seasoned eye and a boundless heart, Indy continues to craft stories that resonate, captivate, and inspire journeys of their own.
