Author Archives: Anirudh Iyer

Symphony of The Wild – Marina Cano

Marina Cano is a wildlife photographer well-versed in creating breathtaking narratives of the wild. Her monochromes especially stand out—featuring grit, texture, emotional depth, an element of warmth, exuding visual poetry. Her work has received acclaim from around the globe and she has been highly commended in the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards as well as International Photography Awards. Asian Photography spoke to her about her journey, challenges, her signature style and creative vision and more. Excerpts:

How Did You Begin Photographing Wildlife?

I began photographing wildlife almost naturally, following my father’s path, who was an amateur photographer. It was a way to connect my love for nature with my passion for photography. I’ve always felt a deep fascination for animals and wild places, and picking up a camera allowed me to express that connection in a creative way.

At the beginning, I spent a lot of time exploring nature close to home, observing animals and learning to be patient. Over time, my curiosity and desire to discover new landscapes and species took me further, especially to Africa, which became a turning point in my career.

What’s the most challenging environment you’ve shot in, and how did you manage it?

Honestly, the most challenging environment for me is when I’m sitting at my desk at home, not out in Africa or on another adventure. 

But beyond that, the toughest situations have been those where I had only a single opportunity to capture the moment, whether it was photographing horses running or cheetahs hunting. I feel much more comfortable with intimate and calm scenes than with high-action shots.

Another adrenaline time was shooting with Craig, one of the last big tuskers in the world, in Amboseli, Kenya. To be close to such a gentle giant is a huge privilege and one of the times where my heart beats faster.

Another challenging experience in Patagonia, photographing pumas in the “end of the world” winds was another extreme: pressing the shutter with numb fingers while the icy gusts hit my face. But the result was worth it.

How do you achieve the level of intimacy with your subjects?

I think this comes from my background in art studies. I’ve always been fascinated by Baroque painters, the dramatic lighting, the foreshortening, the intense atmosphere.

That particular ambience captures my attention, and I try to replicate that same drama and intimacy in the scenes I photograph, like animals playing, fighting, or the tender moments between mothers and cubs. I always try to work with that special light that enhances the full emotion I see.

How do you practise patience in the field?

This question assumes a sense of impatience, but that simply isn’t the case for me. When I’m in the bush, I’m in a state of complete happiness, fully immersed in nature, waiting for the magic to happen, and appreciating every second.

When your motivation is passion and love for wildlife, everything that nature offers feels like a gift. And if things don’t unfold as expected, I simply trust that another opportunity will come tomorrow or in the future. 

There’s an element of softness and warmth in your images, how do you achieve that? Is it your signature style?

Yes, I would say that softness and warmth have naturally become part of my signature style. It comes from a combination of artistic intention and emotional connection with my subjects.

My background in art has always influenced the way I see light. I’m particularly drawn to soft, golden light because it creates a gentle painterly atmosphere.

I also try to approach wildlife with respect and closeness, allowing intimate moments to unfold without intrusion (and that is also thanks to my 600mm lens). That emotional bond often translates into the final image, giving it tenderness.

My goal has always been to go beyond documentary shots—I want each photograph to feel like a timeless portrait, full of poetry.

How do you keep your creative vision fresh after working in the field for years?

I collaborate with people from all around the world who constantly inspire me, through their talent, their personalities, and the unique places they come from. Every journey offers new experiences: the landscapes, the food, the culture… all of it feeds my creativity.

I’m always learning, staying open to different influences. Travel, art, people, and, above all, nature itself are endless sources of inspiration for me. Nature is never the same twice, the light, the seasons, the behaviour of animals. Everything changes constantly, and that keeps my vision alive and evolving.

I also challenge myself to experiment with new techniques and perspectives. Sometimes it’s as simple as changing the way I observe a familiar place, or with new assignments that allow me to see things differently. That sense of curiosity is what keeps my work fresh, even after many years in the field.

What’s the one thing you’d do differently if you started over today, one advice for beginners?

I could start over, I would learn to trust my own work earlier. I would remind myself to work hard, stay focused, and, yes this time to be patient. Things don’t happen overnight, growth in photography, like in nature, takes time.

My advice to beginners is to believe deeply in your vision and follow your passion with persistence. If there’s true passion, nothing can stop you. No matter the challenges you face, you’ll always find the strength to keep going.

Also, don’t rush to compare yourself with others. Everyone has their own path, their own rhythm, and their unique way of seeing the world. Embrace that individuality, it’s what will make your work stand out.

Most Impactful Wildlife Photos Over The Last Years

Wildlife photography plays a very important role in the wildlife conservation movement. Every year we’re fortunate to witness rare moments captured by skill, precision, and luck of photographers who toil for their shot for years. Several of these images managed to strike a chord with us, so we decided to showcase the images and the stories behind them. From notorious snow leopards to glorious blue whales to heart-wrenching moments, we assure you these stories are one-of-a-kind. These photos are listed in no particular order of their impact, but it is an homage to the work the people behind the lens put alongside helpers and guides.

Ndakasi’s Passing

For 13 years, the caregivers at Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo took care of Ndakasi, an endangered mountain gorilla, orphaned as her mother was killed by poachers. Her story was captured by photographer Brent Stirton, who is well-known for photographing conservation efforts. The image is striking not only for its tenderness, but for the story it holds: a gorilla orphaned by violence, raised with devotion, and loved like family until the end. Stirton’s lens frames the extraordinary bond between species, reminding us that conservation is not just about saving animals in the abstract, but about relationships, compassion, and the fragile lives at stake. It’s a portrait of grief, but also of connection, one that lingers long after the first glance.

House of Bears

Photographer Dmitry Kokh captures a surreal moment where polar bears have taken refuge in the abandoned structures of a Soviet-era weather station on Kolyuchin Island in the Russian Arctic. Taken during a 2021 expedition, the image shows a polar bear peering out from a broken window, embodying the eerie stillness of a bygone era overtaken by nature’s resilience. The bears’ presence in these human-made ruins highlights the profound impact of climate change, which has forced these normally solitary creatures to adapt to new environments in search of food and shelter. Kokh’s use of a low-noise drone to capture this scene emphasises the delicate balance between human encroachment and wildlife, offering a poignant commentary on the intersection of nature and human history. The photograph has garnered international acclaim, winning top honours at the Nature Photographer of the Year Award and being featured in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, underscoring its significance in wildlife conservation discourse.

Toxic Trip

Sri Lankan photographer Lakshitha Karunarathna captured a grim scene of a lone Asian Elephant wading through a colourful landfill in Amapara, Sri Lanka. The image is a haunting testament to the collision of wildlife and human activity: amidst heaps of food scraps, the elephant is forced to ingest plastic and other harmful debris, a slow but deadly consequence of encroachment on its natural habitat. Over the past three years, Karunarathna has been documenting these human-induced threats to the region’s roughly 300 elephants—of which 20 have reportedly died over the last eight years—revealing not just the resilience of these majestic creatures, but the dire environmental pressures they face daily. The photo is both visually compelling and profoundly sobering, highlighting the urgent need for responsible waste management. This picture has already received several acclaims, including the Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards.

Waiting for Freedom

Known for his work in the Rhino Conservation project, photographer Neil Aldrige shot this Southern white rhinoceros with its face covered by a cloth awaiting release in Botswana’s Okavango Delta—earning him the coveted World Press Photo. This story underscores the urgent conservation efforts to protect rhinos from escalating poaching threats in South Africa. The rhino’s relocation to Botswana, a sanctuary free from the pervasive poaching crisis, symbolises a beacon of hope for a species classified as ‘near threatened’ due to the high value of their horns on the black market. Aldridge’s photograph not only documents a critical moment in wildlife conservation, but also serves as a powerful visual call to action, highlighting the resilience of rhinos and the dedicated efforts to ensure their survival.

The Surrogate Mother

Martin Buzora‘s poignant photograph was highly commended in the 2019 Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award. Captured at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in northern Kenya, the image portrays Elias Mugambi, a dedicated ranger, gently interacting with Kitui, an orphaned black rhino. Kitui’s mother was unable to care for her due to blindness, and the young rhino was left vulnerable to poaching. Elias often spends weeks away from his family, providing round-the-clock care to orphaned rhinos like Kitui, ensuring their safety and well-being in the sanctuary. Buzora’s photograph highlights the deep bond between humans and wildlife, emphasising the importance of conservation efforts and the tireless work of individuals like Elias in protecting endangered species.

No Place Like Home

Emmanuel Tardy captured a brown-throated three-toed sloth clinging to a barbed wire fence post in Costa Rica’s Alajuela Province. The sloth, having crossed a road, instinctively grasped the fence, mistaking it for a tree—a desperate act reflecting the challenges posed by habitat fragmentation. Tardy’s image, which garnered a highly commended recognition in the 2025 Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards, underscores the urgency of preserving natural habitats and establishing wildlife corridors to ensure the survival of species like the sloth.

The Embrace

Sergey Gorshkov was awarded the Grand Title at the 2020 Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. Captured in Russia’s Land of the Leopard National Park, the image depicts a female Amur tiger, also known as the Siberian tiger, embracing an ancient Manchurian fir tree. The tiger is scent-marking the tree by rubbing her cheek against its bark, a behaviour that communicates her presence and territorial boundaries to other tigers. Gorshkov employed motion-sensor cameras over a period of 11 months to document this rare and intimate moment. The photograph not only showcases the beauty and majesty of the Amur tiger, but also highlights the challenges faced by this critically endangered species, with only around 500 individuals remaining in the wild. The Embrace serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between wildlife and their habitats, emphasising the importance of conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.

Ice Bed

Nima Sarikhani photograph Ice Bed won the 2023 Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award, capturing a poignant moment of a young polar bear resting atop a small iceberg in Norway’s Svalbard archipelago. After three days of searching through thick fog, Sarikhani’s persistence paid off when he encountered the bear just before midnight. The bear used its strong paws to carve out a bed on the iceberg before drifting off to sleep under the midnight sun. Sarikhani’s image, chosen from over 75,000 votes, highlights the delicate balance between wildlife and their habitats, emphasising the impacts of climate change and habitat loss.

Sunset Moment

Yet another metaphorical representation of deforestation and habitat destruction, French photographer Olivier Puccia shot this picture of a baby Hanuman langur embracing its mother at a hilltop temple in the town of Ramtek, Maharashtra. The soft, serene sunlight envelopes the sky in warmth and the village below is sunk in a hue of blue, drawing a line between nature and humans’ development.

India a Pivotal Market for ZEISS

Festive season is a busy time for both photographers and imaging companies. Over the years ZEISS has been a name that has been synonymous with high-quality optics and a signature look. Asian Photography spoke with Kunal Girotra, ZEISS’s Regional Head: India, Southeast Asia & SAARC – Photonics & Optics about their upcoming plans and India’s importance in their global growth. Excerpts:

What are your thoughts about the Indian market and how is the business? 

ZEISS holds a dominant position in the premium segment of the Indian market for lenses and optical systems. Our strength lies in our unwavering commitment to innovation and quality. We support a wide array of brands with our lens lineup, a testament to our technological leadership. We continuously listen to our customers and innovate to meet their evolving demands. Unlike many competitors who focus on a price-sensitive consumer base, ZEISS competes on value, precision, and long-term benefits. 

This strategy has resonated with discerning customers who are willing to invest in solutions that offer superior outcomes. The Indian market presents a unique landscape for the optics industry, distinct from consumer-driven markets like Europe, the US, or China.

What are the plans for the festive season?

We are preparing for the festive season with a strong focus on the e-commerce channel. We have established a robust online presence on major platforms including Amazon and Flipkart. This digital-first approach is paying off significantly, with the e-commerce channel experiencing a remarkable growth rate of nearly 90%. With 180 different products available online, we are able to reach customers even in remote regions where physical retail stores are not accessible.

Recognising that binoculars and lenses are popular gift items for nature enthusiasts during the festivals, ZEISS is actively participating in key e-commerce events  and ensuring its products are featured prominently in festival offers, both online and in physical stores, maximising visibility and sales during the peak consumer spending period.

Which product categories are you focusing on growing in the next year?

Our product pipeline is robust, with several new and exciting developments in the works. We are not just creating incremental updates, but looking to develop innovative products that will once again set the standard for quality and performance in the industry. 

How is India contributing to ZEISS’ global growth?

India is a pivotal and high-growth market for ZEISS, acting as a key driver of the company’s global expansion, particularly within the Asia-Pacific region. Alongside India’s sustained strong performance, ZEISS is experiencing remarkable growth in other Southeast Asian markets like Thailand and Singapore, with triple-digit growth expected this year. This success indicates a growing appreciation for ZEISS’ comprehensive range of photography and sports optics products.

To further fuel this growth, we are strategically entering new markets such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, where a rapidly growing e-commerce landscape will play a crucial role in making products accessible to a wider audience. This expansion, combined with the continued strong performance of its core growth markets, solidifies India’s significant contribution to ZEISS’ overall global success.

How would you define ZEISS’ long-term India roadmap for stakeholders and business partners?

We also take part in events, especially forest and wildlife events, to connect with our customers. Following a bottom-up approach, we spend time understanding consumer behaviour and identifying the right pricing “sweet spots”. While we remain a premium brand, we also offer products in price segments where customers are willing to buy, without compromising on innovation or quality. This strategy has been very successful. 

OM SYSTEM Re-enters Indian Market, Launches OM-5 Mark II Camera & 50-200mm Lens

OM SYSTEM (formerly Olympus) has announced the launch of two new products in India – the OM-5 Mark II interchangeable lens camera and the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 50-200mm F2.8 IS PRO lens. The products are aimed at wildlife, macro, birding, landscape, travel, and street photography.

The OM-5 Mark II builds on the OM-5 series, offering upgrades based on user feedback. Compact and lightweight, it features splash, dust, and IPX53 freeze-proof protection certified to -10°C. The model includes 5-axis image stabilisation and a redesigned grip for improved handling.

The M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 50-200mm F2.8 IS PRO lens covers a 100-400mm equivalent focal range with a constant F2.8 aperture. The lens supports 5-axis sync image stabilisation, enabling up to 7 steps of stabilisation for handheld shooting at long focal lengths.

Both launches coincide with the festive season in India. The OM-5 Mark II with a 14-150mm kit lens is priced at ₹1,39,990 and will be available from 18 September 2025, bundled with complimentary 10×50 binoculars worth ₹14,990 as part of the launch offer. The M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 50-200mm F2.8 IS PRO lens will be available from 1 October 2025 on an order basis, priced at ₹3,29,990.

Alongside the launches, OM SYSTEM also announced its annual APAC photography competition, running from October to January, with results declared in March each year.

Nikon Enters the Cinema World, Launches ZR Compact Cinema Camera

Nikon India has officially introduced the ZR – a compact full-frame cinema camera. Developed in collaboration with RED Digital Cinema, the ZR is Nikon’s first model to feature the RED R3D NE codec, allowing internal 6K RAW video recording.

The camera supports up to seven video formats, including 12-bit RAW, and offers features such as dual base ISO (800/6400), 5-axis in-body stabilisation, and a 4-inch vari-angle LCD that goes upto 1000 nits of brightness. It includes nine RED-curated imaging presets, real-time waveform, histogram, and zebra overlays, as well as support for multiple LUT formats.

Aimed at filmmakers, the ZR offers internal 32-bit float audio recording via both the 3.5mm jack as well as the digital hotshoe. It also features direct Frame.io cloud uploads, multiple subject detection options through deep-learning autofocus, and tools tailored for studio and multi-camera workflows.

Weighing 540g, the body is primarily designed for portability and durability. Nikon also introduced the ME-D10, a battery-free shotgun microphone that connects through the ZR’s digital accessory shoe.

The Nikon ZR will be available across India from October 16, 2025, at a retail price of ₹186,995 (body only).

Using Black & White to Highlight Emotion in Indian Festivals

When you imagine festivals, especially in India, all you can see is a wall of colours. They’re vibrant, highly energetic and it is really easy to get overwhelmed by all the colours around you, sometimes making it difficult to pick and choose what to shoot. And this is where you can do something while shooting that will change your perspective and give you an opportunity to fine-tune your technical and storytelling prowess—shoot black and white. Yes, colours can sometimes be distracting, so you can choose to shoot them—however, it’s not as easy as changing the colour profile to monochrome and going on about the day. In this article we’ll illustrate why monochrome might be the solution to your stagnant photography style, how it might help you elevate your storytelling skills and more.

The Power of Monochrome

Black and white photography has long been a staple of documentary and fine art photography, allowing the photographer to distill the essence of a moment, unencumbered by the distractions of colour. In the context of Indian festivals, this monochrome aesthetic can be particularly effective in capturing the emotional resonance of these events. By eliminating the riot of colours that often characterises these celebrations, black and white photography can focus the viewer’s attention on the faces, expressions, and body language of the participants, revealing the underlying emotions that drive these festivities.

Capturing Emotion in the Moment

Indian festivals are, by their very nature, emotional experiences. Whether it’s the fervour of a Durga Puja pandal, the reverent atmosphere of a Ganesh Chaturthi procession, or the unbridled joy of a Holi celebration, these events are characterised by intense emotions—devotion, excitement, elation, and sometimes, even sadness. Black and white photography is uniquely suited to capturing these emotions, as it allows the photographer to freeze the moment, revealing the subtleties of human expression that might be lost in a colour image.

Conveying the Intimacy of the Moment

One of the key advantages of black and white photography is its ability to convey a sense of intimacy and immediacy. By removing the distractions of colour, the viewer is drawn into the image, forced to focus on the subject’s expression, posture, and surroundings. In the context of Indian festivals, this can be particularly effective in capturing the quiet moments—a young girl’s reverent gaze as she prays to the goddess, an elderly man’s tears of joy as he watches his grandchildren celebrate Holi, or a couple’s tender exchange as they participate in a traditional wedding ritual.

Highlighting Social and Cultural Narratives

Indian festivals are not just emotional experiences; they are also deeply rooted in the country’s social and cultural fabric. Black and white photography can be used to highlight these underlying narratives, revealing the complex dynamics that shape these celebrations. For instance, a photograph of a group of women performing a traditional dance during a Navratri celebration can convey the sense of community and solidarity that defines these events, while an image of a young boy watching a Ram Lila performance can capture the passing down of cultural traditions from one generation to the next.

The Technical Challenges

While black and white photography can be a powerful tool for capturing the emotional essence of Indian festivals, it is not without its technical challenges. In particular, the high-contrast lighting that often characterises these events can be difficult to manage, requiring the photographer to be skilled in capturing a wide dynamic range. Additionally, the fast-paced nature of these celebrations demands a high degree of technical proficiency, as the photographer must be able to work quickly and decisively to capture the fleeting moments that define these events.

You NEED to know your gear through-and-through. Run through some scenarios beforehand because moments happen on the field in a split second which might not happen again. Or if your intent is to shoot in a photojournalistic style, then that particular moment is gone, and can’t be recreated. Carry a flash on your camera and keep it off because there are situations where you might need to use it as a fill, and reaching out for it during the moment means it’ll be gone before you’re ready to shoot.

Tips To Shoot

Focus on capturing raw emotions rather than just the grandeur of the event. The viewer’s eye is drawn to expressions, gestures, and contrasts, so pay attention to faces in prayer, laughter, or deep concentration. Frame your shots around storytelling moments—a wrinkled hand holding Diyas, children’s wide-eyed wonder during processions, or the solemnity of devotees in crowded temples. Here are a few tips:

Composition Tips

  • Get close and frame tight on faces, hands, or eyes—details reveal emotion more powerfully in B&W.
  • Use leading lines from Rangolis, temple architecture, or procession paths to guide attention toward subjects.
  • Look for layering—foreground silhouettes, middle-ground action, and background context—to give depth.
  • Negative space (like smoke, sky, or plain walls) can isolate emotion-filled subjects effectively.

Technique Tips

  • Shoot in Monochrome profile (or simulation) but shoot RAW alongside JPEG. This gives you full control over tonal adjustments in post, while giving you a taste of the final product.
  • Use spot metering on faces to preserve emotional highlights without being distracted by bright decorations. The most important detail you want to see is the locus of the story you want to tell.
  • Leverage shadows and high-contrast light to create drama, don’t shy away from underexposing slightly. This also helps preserve details in the highlights while increasing dynamic range.
  • Work with wider apertures (f/1.8–f/2.8) to blur distractions in chaotic festival environments. But don’t shy away from using deep depth of field (f/4-f/8) and use deep, layered compositions to describe more of the scene.
  • Anticipate emotion. Observe rhythms of rituals or processions so you’re ready when moments happen.
  • Switch to continuous low burst mode and turn on pre-capture, because perhaps your timing of pressing the button might not be right, but you’ll still preserve the moment.

Gear Tips

  • A fast prime lens (35mm or 50mm f/1.4) is excellent for intimate, emotion-driven shots. The 35 especially gives you ample opportunity to capture emotions and depth while also preserving the background without distortion from wide-angle lenses.
  • A zoom (24-70mm/24-105mm) helps adapt quickly in crowded festival settings without losing the moment.
  • If shooting handheld in low light, a camera/lens with good stabilisation will help avoid motion blur. Combine this with faster lenses for tack sharp shots.
  • Consider using smaller camera setups. You might not get enough space, so big bodies and long lenses won’t be the best choice to shoot, especially in tight spaces. 
  • A circular polariser can sometimes help control reflections and enhance textures, useful even for B&W conversions. Better to have it and not want it vs want it and not have it.

What’s Next?

Indian festivals are a riot of colours, sounds, and emotions that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, easily overwhelming your senses. However, by using black and white photography, it is possible to strip away the distractions of colour and tap into the raw emotions that underlie these joyous occasions. Whether it’s capturing the intimacy of a quiet moment, highlighting the social and cultural narratives that shape these celebrations, or simply conveying the unbridled joy of a festive occasion, black and white photography offers a powerful tool for storytelling, one that can reveal the deeper, more poignant truths that lie beneath the surface of these vibrant events. As we continue to navigate the complexities of Indian culture and society, the use of black and white photography to highlight emotion in Indian festivals offers a unique perspective, one that can help us connect with the very heart of these celebrations.

Shooting Ganpati Festival From Aagman to Visarjan

The Ganpati festival is one of the most vibrant celebrations in India. Spanning ten days, it marks the arrival of Lord Ganesha into homes and communities, followed by processions and the final immersion in water. For photographers, the festival offers an unmatched opportunity to capture emotions, rituals, and culture in its purest form. Shooting Ganpati from the very beginning, known as Aagman or arrival, until the emotional conclusion at Visarjan is not just about clicking pictures. It is about telling the story of devotion, colour, and community spirit that unfolds before your eyes.

Preparing for the Festival

Before you lift the camera, preparation is key. The Ganpati festival is crowded, chaotic, and filled with movement. Plan your gear carefully. A wide-angle lens works wonders for capturing the scale of processions and pandals. A 35mm or 50mm prime lens is excellent for portraits of devotees, while a telephoto zoom (70-200 for example) helps isolate details when you cannot move close, and add compression to the scene. Carry extra memory cards and batteries, because opportunities appear at every turn.

It is equally important to understand the rituals. Speak with locals or organisers in advance. Knowing when the idol arrives, when Aarti takes place, and how the immersion will unfold helps you anticipate moments instead of reacting to them. Being aware of cultural sensitivities ensures you do not interrupt prayers or block devotees during key ceremonies.

Capturing Aagman – The Arrival

Photo by Ramnarayan Iyer @iyergee

The festival begins with the Aagman procession, when the idol of Lord Ganesha is brought to homes or pandals. This is one of the most photogenic stages, filled with drumming, chanting, and dancing. Focus on the faces of the people carrying the idol. Their expressions reveal pride, responsibility, and devotion. Wide shots of the crowd create context, but do not miss the chance to step in closer for intimate details like a child showering flowers or an elder offering prayers.

Natural light during Aagman can be tricky because the processions often take place in the evening or at night. A fast lens with a wide aperture helps in low light. High ISO performance of modern cameras allows you to preserve the atmosphere without using a flash, which can distract or feel intrusive. If you must use artificial light, diffuse it to maintain softness.

The Pandal Experience

Once the idol is installed, the pandal becomes the heart of celebration. This is where photographers can spend hours observing and documenting rituals. Every pandal is unique in its decoration, and shooting wide frames highlights the craftsmanship of artisans who build elaborate backdrops. Step closer to capture offerings like Modaks, coconuts, and garlands that symbolise devotion.

Portraits here take on deeper meaning. Families gather together, women dress in traditional sarees, and children look in awe at the deity. When shooting portraits, be respectful and seek permission. A simple smile and nod can go a long way. Consider working in black and white for certain frames to emphasise emotion over colour, especially during quiet moments of prayer.

Crowds inside pandals can be overwhelming. Look for elevated positions or corners where you can shoot without blocking the flow of people. Patience is key. Sometimes waiting in one spot allows you to capture a natural alignment of devotees, priests, and the idol in a single frame.

Rituals and Aarti

Daily rituals such as Aarti are powerful moments filled with energy. Flames of oil lamps, rhythmic chants, and clapping hands create an environment that challenges your technical skills. The firelight is warm and flickering, so expose carefully to retain highlights. Focus on the lamp or the expressions of devotees holding it. Including multiple layers in your frame, such as the priest, the idol, and the crowd, helps narrate the collective participation.

Sound is integral to the Ganpati festival, and while photography cannot capture it, your images can imply it. Photograph drummers mid-beat, cymbals clashing, and singers with mouths wide open. Movement blur can be used creatively to convey rhythm. A slightly slower shutter speed while panning can turn drummers into dynamic streaks of colour and motion.

Street Scenes Around Ganpati

Beyond pandals, the streets themselves tell stories. Vendors sell flowers, sweets, and souvenirs. Artisans paint idols in small workshops. Children play with toy drums and balloons. These candid moments add context to your coverage. Use a documentary approach, blending into the crowd and waiting for authentic interactions.

Street photography during Ganpati requires awareness of light and shadow. Narrow lanes may create high contrast conditions. Expose for the highlights, but allow some areas of shadow to retain depth. Reflections in water or glass can also provide creative frames.

The Journey of Visarjan

The emotional peak of the festival comes with Visarjan, the immersion of the idol. Processions are louder, grander, and filled with contrasting emotions of joy and sorrow. Wide shots of massive crowds carrying idols create a sense of scale, while close-ups of teary-eyed devotees reveal intimacy.

At Visarjan, movement is constant. Processions may last hours, with dancing, chanting, and music filling the streets. A wide-angle lens helps capture the energy of groups dancing together. To avoid chaotic frames, look for repeating patterns such as raised hands, synchronised drummers, or colourful powders in the air.

When the idol finally reaches the water, the atmosphere shifts. The loudness gives way to moments of silence as devotees bid farewell. This is when you can switch to a quieter, more reflective style of photography. Silhouettes of the idol against the water or the horizon are powerful images. Children watching from their parents’ shoulders or elders folding hands in prayer capture the emotion of parting.

Be cautious around water during Visarjan. Keep gear protected with waterproof covers and carry minimal equipment. The energy and crowd density can be overwhelming, so safety must always come first.

Storytelling Through Sequencing

Once the festival concludes, the task of storytelling begins. Review your images not as single frames, but as a sequence. Start with the anticipation of Aagman, move through rituals and community interactions, and end with the bittersweet farewell of Visarjan. Including wide shots, medium shots, and close-ups ensures variety. Look for a balance of celebratory and emotional moments, because the Ganpati festival is as much about joy as it is about devotion.

Editing plays a vital role. Do not oversaturate colours, because authenticity matters. Sometimes muted tones highlight raw emotions better. For a cohesive series, maintain consistency in your colour grading or black and white conversions.

Respect and Responsibility

Photographing Ganpati is a privilege. Remember that for devotees this is not just an event, but a deeply spiritual experience. Respect boundaries, avoid obstructing rituals, and never treat people as mere subjects. Offering a copy of your photo to families or organisers is a simple gesture of gratitude.

Also be mindful of the environment. Immersions place stress on rivers and seas, and many communities now embrace eco-friendly idols. Documenting these efforts can help raise awareness about sustainability. As a photographer, you carry the power not only to record culture, but also to influence positive change.

Conclusion

From the joyous arrival of Aagman to the emotional farewell of Visarjan, the Ganpati festival is a complete journey. For photographers, it offers lessons in anticipation, patience, and respect. Every frame has the potential to tell a story, whether it is the sparkle in a child’s eyes or the grandeur of thousands walking together. Shooting Ganpati is not just about capturing images. It is about experiencing a festival where devotion and celebration meet, and translating that experience into photographs that will resonate long after the drums fall silent.

DGCA Initiates Retroactive Deregistration of Improperly Registered Drones

India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has commenced the process of retroactively cancelling registration of certain Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), including DJI drones, that were improperly registered under the Drone Rules, 2021.

A public notice dated 12 August 2025 identifies those misusing the Digital Sky platform to self-generate Unique Identification Numbers (UINs) with misleading declarations in Form D-2—specifically claiming drones were for “educational, research, design, testing or recreational” use when they were not, and registering foreign-manufactured drones imported without required DGFT authorization DigitalSky.Registrants under review will be provided an opportunity to respond within one month, by submitting documentation such as purchase invoices, import permissions, weighing certificates, and manufacturer details to drone.dgca@gov.in DigitalSky. Failure to respond may result in outright cancellation. Operating a drone with a suspended or cancelled registration is strictly prohibited and may lead to legal consequences under the Drone Rules, 2021 and the Aircraft Act, 1934

Instagram’s iPad App Is Finally Here!

Instagram has officially launched a dedicated app for iPad, responding to long-standing user demand. The new version introduces features tailored for the larger screen, including a fresh layout designed to improve browsing and multitasking.

When opening the app, users land directly in Reels, bringing short-form video to the forefront on a bigger display. A new “Following” tab makes it easier to track updates from favourite accounts, while enhanced layouts allow smoother access to messages and notifications. Reels also play in full size while users expand the comments section, ensuring uninterrupted viewing alongside real-time reactions.

The iPad app is available now on the App Store, aiming to provide a more complete Instagram experience for creators and casual users alike.

Nikon Launches Z f in Silver

Nikon India has announced a silver version of its full-frame camera, the Nikon Z f. The new model features a finish reminiscent of classic film-era cameras.

In addition to the silver body, six new Premium Exterior colour options including Indigo Blue, Red, Green, Orange, Grey, and Brown are available. Owners can request a change of body covering through the MyNikon App, after which the camera can be sent to a Nikon service centre for customization.

The Z f will also gain a Film Grain feature via a planned firmware update in 2025. This function will allow users to add grain to photos and videos, with adjustable grain size and strength, offering a film-like appearance. Combined with Picture Controls and Imaging Recipes, it expands the camera’s creative options.

The Nikon Z f Silver is priced at ₹1,76,995, same as the original Z f in black.

Displaying image.png