NATALIJA ILIC
Cinematic Camera Lead
About
I’m Natalija Natasa Ilić (formerly known as Natasha Petrovic), a Cinematic Camera Lead working across film and AAA games.My work is focused on real-time storytelling through camera — building emotion, rhythm, and player experience inside interactive sequences.With a background in VFX, animation, and full production pipelines, I combine technical precision with cinematic direction.
Work
My work spans more than 20 years across film, VFX, animation, commercials, and AAA game production.I started in full CG and postproduction pipelines, working across camera tracking, compositing, animation, lighting, and technical execution for film, TV, and commercial projects. Over time, that foundation grew into broader creative and production responsibility — from full pipeline ownership and independent production work to creative direction and cross-disciplinary leadership.Today, my focus is cinematic camera work in AAA games, where I lead camera direction, visual language, shot composition, pacing, and real-time storytelling in Unreal Engine. My background across VFX, animation, live-action integration, and production pipelines allows me to approach sequences not just as isolated shots, but as complete narrative systems built for emotion, clarity, and player experience.
Deleted
Director : Zoran Krstic
Hybrid dystopian feature
Lead Lighting and Camera Artist /UnrealEngine
In partnership with Mir Media, supported by Film Center Serbia and Epic Games/3Lateral, Open Studio were working on a new feature DELETED.
Thank You
Darshita Bajpai Principal Animator —
Firesprite (Sony PlayStation)"It was a pleasure working with Nat. She is a
highly capable and experienced professional
with a strong background in cinematic work and
a real passion for solving technical challenges.
One of her key strengths is her ability to find
practical solutions quickly, especially when
dealing with complex engine blending or
transition issues. She brings strong technical
knowledge, a practical mindset and clear
dedication to her craft. I would recommend her
for roles where problem solving, technical skill
and cinematic experience are highly value."
Justas Viškelis Senior Cinematic Artist
Heroic - Room 8 Group"I've worked with many leads, but I can say this without hesitation: Natalija has had the
biggest positive impact on my career so far. She wasn't just a team lead to me, she
was also a mentor.
I joined the project later than the team, and despite that, she invested a huge amount of
time into my growth.
I learned a lot from her, not only about cinematography and camera work, but also
about decision-making, quality standards, and how to approach complex situations
with clarity and confidence.
What still stands out to me is her ability to react instantly and accurately in any
situation.
There is no hesitation, no uncertainty, just clear direction. Her level of professionalism
is something I rarely see.
Her feedback is on another level. Its fast, precise, and always supported by strong
visual references. Sometimes it honestly feels impossible how much visual knowledge
she carries - from films to framing to subtle details - and how quickly she can apply it to
improve a shot.
She sets a very high bar, but in a way that pushes you to grow rather than overwhelm
you.
She plans ahead, protects the team from unnecessary stress, and consistently ensures
that we deliver before deadlines. Beyond all of that, she genuinely cares about the
team.
She supports people, recognizes their work, and creates an environment where you
want to improve.
Working with her has had a lasting impact on me. Any team would be extremely lucky
to have her."
Danylo Husak Cinematic Artist
Heroic - Room 8 Group"It is my pleasure to write this recommendation for Nataljia Ilich.
In my opinion, she is one of the best team leaders and artists that I have ever
met.
During our time together, she consistently demonstrated a remarkable abilities
to work on complex tasks, apply new technologies, and solve complex
problems.
Her passion and value to the work can't be overestimated.
Firstly, I would like to highlight her approach of working on projects.
Thanks to her hard skills and experience she was able to solve any task with
great performance and high quality.
She has a great knowledge of cinematography techniques, camera work and
light placement.
Secondly, I want to emphasize her team working skills.
During our work together there was never a time that I couldn't reach her out.
She was always in touch, always ready to help with any kinds of problems and
solve them as soon as possible.
In conclusion, I would like to say that it was a honor for me to work with such
an amazing specialist. I have no doubt that she will bring value and creative
vision to any team or project she joins. I highly recommend her and look
forward to her new achievements."