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In the vibrant world of film industry, the artistry behind the camera is often the unsung hero of storytelling. With nearly two decades of experience, Imran Haroon has mastered the craft as a Cinematographer, Director, and Associate Director – shaping visual narratives that leave a lasting impact on audiences across commercial, parallel, and independent cinema.
Imran’s journey began in 2005 at AAJ TV, where he started as an assistant cameraman. Guided by seasoned Directors of Photography (DOPs), he honed his skills in a fast-paced environment. Faced with a choice between news and music programming, he followed his passion for entertainment, plunging himself in the challenges of shooting with limited resources.
His early promotion to cameraman allowed him to contribute to a diverse slate of productions, including music shows, morning programs, concerts, telethons, magazine features, and special election transmissions.
Haroon gained recognition as the first cameraman to shoot a special Ramadan series abroad, spanning 30 episodes – a format that soon became an industry benchmark.
Between 2005 and 2011, Imran served with dedication at the Business Recorder Network, earning multiple appreciation letters for his outstanding work ethic and innovation behind the camera.
In 2011, Imran ventured into freelancing, marking a pivotal moment in his career. One of the most notable achievements was working on the travel and food show National Ka Pakistan, which aired for six successful seasons.
This acclaimed series, recognized with a PAS Award, was celebrated for its unique content and captivating portrayal of Pakistan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Imran’s versatility stands out through his seamless transition between commercial and parallel cinema. While he contributed to high-profile feature films such as Ishrat Made in China & in VIP (Vela Important Pakistani) as both Cinematographer and Associate Director – a rare dual role that showcases his deep commitment and passion – he also gravitated toward socially conscious projects.
A notable example is Jameela, an art film highlighting the struggles of a transgender woman. The film’s sensitive storytelling and visual depth reflect Imran’s desire to use cinema as a tool for change and representation.
During his freelance career, Imran also collaborated with prominent national & international directors and production houses.
Working alongside industry stalwarts Directors of Pakistani industry, Imran gained invaluable mentorship and contributed to internationally acclaimed projects.
He also directed a food show for the U.S.-based brand Laxmi Foods, combining his skills in both visual storytelling and cultural nuance to appeal to international audiences.
Another landmark in his career was the short film ITCH, where Imran served as Associate Director. The film’s selection among the top five out of thousand submissions at the New York Independent Film Festival called DANCES WITH FILMS marked a significant milestone in his journey.
Imran believes that lighting is the soul of cinematography. Deeply inspired by visionaries like Roger Deakins, Imran treats light not just as a technical tool but as a narrative force.His mastery of lighting and framing enables him to create immersive moods and emotionally resonant scenes – turning even the simplest frames into cinematic experiences. His dual expertise in directing and cinematography is rare in the industry and is fueled entirely by passion.
Whether navigating harsh sunlight or manipulating diffused lighting, Imran’s expertise in composition and color transforms scenes into cinematic masterpieces. His belief in the transformative power of lighting aligns with Stanley Kubrick’s quote, which says, “The essence of cinematography is to be able to manipulate light to tell the story.”
As Imran continues to explore new projects in documentaries, music videos, and feature films, he remains committed to pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling. With an unwavering passion for his craft, he continues to bring narratives to life, one frame at a time.
