Overview

As a cinematographer I worked on a campaign for Hilton Hotels shot across Delhi, Jaipur, Goa, and Bengaluru in India. The project consisted of four destination films, each following a typical dawn-to-dusk day in the life of travelers staying at a Hilton property.

Each city film focused on atmosphere and rhythm rather than scripted narrative. Morning light, transitional travel moments, local surroundings, and evening ambience structured the progression of the day. The visual approach needed to reflect both the individuality of each destination and the consistency of the Hilton brand.

I teamed up with Filmmaker Neil Dowling on this production. Production was handled through our Korean and European-based production company, Contented. In addition to collaborating creatively, I shot all four films as director of photography and completed the project in post as editor and colorist. This continuity from production through grading ensured visual consistency across multiple cities and formats.

Beyond the four main 60-second films, we created cut-down versions in 30, 15, and 6 seconds. These were delivered in horizontal, vertical, and square formats for digital and social media use. The adaptability of the footage across formats was considered during shooting, with framing and coverage allowing for flexible re-editing without compromising composition.

Working as a DOP in India requires responsiveness to changing environments – from urban density in Delhi to coastal light in Goa. Each location brought different pacing, color temperature, and logistical demands. The goal remained consistent: to capture a sense of place while maintaining a cohesive campaign language.

This project reflects my broader work as a director of photography on international hospitality and travel campaigns.

DIRECTOR

NILS CLAUSS, NEIL DOWLING

PRODUCTION

A CONTENTED PRODUCTION IN ASSOCIATION WITH GENERO