Natarajan “Natty” Subramaniam is a well-regarded Indian cinematographer and actor known for his contributions to both Hindi and Tamil cinema. With a career that spans over two decades, he has worked behind the camera on critically acclaimed and commercially successful films, making a name for himself as a visually astute and technically proficient cinematographer. His transition to acting was marked by notable performances, particularly his breakthrough role as a con artist in the Tamil film Sathuranga Vettai (2014), where he received widespread praise for his naturalistic portrayal and screen presence.

Born on 23 June 1971 into a Tamil-speaking family, Natty’s early life was defined by his passion for photography. He quit school at the age of 18 and took up various odd jobs to support this interest, including working as a still photographer and videographer at weddings and ceremonies. His determination led him to briefly assist renowned cinematographer B. R. Vijayalakshmi, though a break in mainstream cinema initially eluded him. Instead, he honed his craft through work on documentaries and commercial advertisements, gradually building a strong foundation in visual storytelling.

One of his early standout works was shooting music videos, including those for Euphoria’s debut album, which received positive attention for their innovative and vibrant visuals. This success helped him gain entry into the film industry, where he went on to work on several notable projects as a cinematographer. His dual identity as both a skilled technician and a compelling performer sets him apart in Indian cinema, and he continues to contribute meaningfully in both roles, with a reputation for authenticity, dedication, and creative vision.