Prakash Matada is a wildlife cameraman who predominantly captures behavioural sequences for natural-history programs. His technical specialities involve expert use of long lenses, gimbals and drones. He is a trained Shotover and Cineflex technician and operator. He relishes the challenge of innovating and pioneering camera rigs, developing novel filming techniques and pushing himself to find new ways to tell engaging stories. His experience includes blue chip landmark filming and sync/actuality across some of the most challenging environments. He has filmed in sub-zero conditions in the Himalayas to the rain-battered forests of the Western Ghats. It is a somewhat perplexing confluence – where the most challenging conditions meet the most fulfilling, joyous experience – a wonder that inspires him to give his camerawork a distinctive style..

David

Throughout the Covid pandemic I’ve been working with Prakash on a big natural history project. Despite all the problems Covid has caused, Prakash has excelled in solving problems and working undirected to create fantastic rushes and images. His attention to detail is excellent, his eye for composition superb, and he has excelled expectation at every stage. He has been a delight to work with, regularly feedbacking comments, queries and observations from the field, eliminating many of the headaches of working with a Producer in one continent, and a Cameraman working in another. It has been a real privilege to work with him and I hope that we get to work on many projects to come.

David Johnson, Producer
Plimsoll Productions

Prakash continues to be a trusted, reliable and innovative DoP. I am extremely glad I could work with him to cover a species that had never been filmed with such precision and quality. Working remotely, we communicated clearly and often; Prakash handled everything with professionalism and charm. I cannot wait to work with him again.

Guthrie O'Brien
BBC Studios Natural History Unit
Philip

For almost a year it has been my pleasure to work with Prakash and it soon became clear how privileged we are to have him as a key member of the camera team. Prakash has a gentle and unassuming manner about him, he treads gently with a keen and original eye for filming intimate and beautiful wildlife behaviour. Pouring over his rushes has opened my eyes to the natural treasures of India I’ve not seen or experienced before.

Philip Dalton, Executive Producer
John Downer Productions
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I have had the privilege of working with Prakash for over 10 years now. He has created multiple award filming documentaries and short films for my organisation. He is the consummate professional and a joy to be in the field with.

Dr.Krithi Karanth, Senior Scientist
Centre for Wildlife Studies
Mahesh_Kumar1

I have had a long association with Prakash. In the year 2015, during my first posting as Deputy Conservator of Forests, Bengaluru Rural Forest Division, he introduced me to drone technology & it's successful applications in forest management & wildlife conservation. He is passionate, professional & most importantly ethically sound when it comes to filming/recording documentaries. All his projects are unique and innovative. He has a keen understanding of the natural history, life cycle, pattern of the flora/fauna etc.essential to be an accurate and effective story teller. His drive and dedication reflects in his work. He doesn't leave any stone unturned to bring out the best. I wish him the best and look forward to keep working with him for conservation.

D. Mahesh Kumar, IFS, Director
Nagarahole Tiger Reserve
Jon-Bougher

Prakash and his team are a joy to work with - professional, creative and adaptable to any situation. We worked with them in-person and remotely and their breadth of experience and understanding of equipment made the project a breeze. Highly recommended!

Jon Bougher,Executive Producer
Emic Films (USA)

Broadcasters and indie production companies that I have worked with

Select Credits 2022-23

BBC – Planet Earth III – Principal Cameraman – Long lens

BBC – NDA – Principal Cameraman – Long lens, Drone Pilot, Gimbal

Apple TV – Big Beasts – Principal Cameraman – Long lens, Movi

Discovery – NDA – Principal Cameraman – Long lens, Movi, CameraTrap

Nat Geo Society Fund – Mitra Series – Principal Cameramen – Long Lens

Disney Nature -NDA – Long Lens, Drone Pilot

 

Long Lens Showreel

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Tiger_Ranthambhore
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Aerials Showreel

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Gear List

Camera Body

Sony Venice 2 Camera Kit- PL Mount

Arri Alexa 35 Camera Kit – PL Mount

Red Weapon Helium 8k Camera Kit- PL Mount

Long Lens

Canon CN20 – Cine Servo 50-1000 PL Mount

Filters

Kippertie Revolva Filter System for Red DSMC2

Prime Lens Kit

Canon Cinema Lens Kit – PL Mount

Cooke S7i Full Frame – PL Mount

Gimbal

Movi Pro with Mimic

DJI Ronin 2 

Tripod Head

Oconnor Ultimate 2575D Fluid Head

Heavy Duty Short, Medium, Tall Tripod

Drone

DJI Inspire 2 Kit

DJI Mavic Pro 3 Cine

Conservation Films

Prakash likes to craft stories about science, culture and wildlife conservation and their intersection that influences opinion and changes behaviour.

Natural History Camerawork

Prakash’s experience as a cinematographer includes filming for blue chip landmarks and sync/actuality across some of the most challenging environments.

Filmmaking Workshops

Prakash teaches the artistic and technical details of wildlife filmmaking in his workshops, sharing the lessons and inspirations gleaned during a decade in the wild.

Get in Touch

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