When Google reaches out for a production in India, the expectations are clear: world-class visuals, seamless logistics, and a narrative that resonates globally. For the recent Google for Startups project featuring ZuAI, I had the privilege of serving as the lead Fixer and Production Manager, ensuring that an international vision was executed perfectly on local soil.
The Brief: International Vision meets Lean Production
The project was led by a Director traveling from Australia. The mission was to capture the story of how Gemini AI is revolutionizing education through the ZuAI platform. With a tight 2-day schedule and a need for high mobility across multiple locations, we opted for a compact, “ninja” style production.
Project Snapshot:
- Client: Google – Startup Accelerator India
- Director: International (Australia)
- Duration: 2 Full Shooting Days
- Locations: Multiple sites (Offices, homes, and outdoor environments)
- Crew: A lean 3-person core team
- Primary Gear: Sony FX6 & Sony FX3
Watch the video here: Revolutionizing Personalized Learning with Gemini | ZuAI | Startup Story
The “Jack of All Trades” Advantage
On a production of this scale, roles aren’t just defined—they are blended. My involvement went beyond standard fixing. To keep the footprint small and the efficiency high, I wore multiple hats:
- Fixer & Production Manager: I handled the “unseen” heavy lifting—securing permits, managing complex logistics, and coordinating multiple locations on short notice to ensure the Australian director could focus entirely on the story.
- Director’s Assistant: Acting as the bridge between the local environment and the director’s vision, I ensured cultural nuances were respected and the schedule remained on track.
- Second Cameraman: Shooting on the Sony FX3 to complement the FX6 main unit, I provided the B-roll and secondary angles that give the final film its rich, cinematic texture.
Why Lean Crews Work for International Clients
Many international production houses assume they need a massive footprint to shoot in India. This project proved the opposite. By utilizing a compact 3-person crew, we remained agile. We could move between locations faster, build rapport with the startup founders more intimately, and maintain an economical budget without sacrificing the “Google-standard” quality.
Using the Sony FX series allowed us to maintain a consistent, high-end look that matched Google’s global brand guidelines, all while staying light enough to shoot handheld and on the move.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a high-stakes corporate testimonial for a tech giant or a documentary-style startup story, my goal as a holistic filmmaker is to be the solution for every problem on set. If you are an international director or production house looking to shoot in India with a partner who understands both the lens and the logistics—let’s talk.
Looking for a Fixer or Line Producer for your next India-based shoot? Contact me