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Top Wildlife Photography Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Wildlife photography is one of the most rewarding yet challenging genres of photography. Unlike studio or street photography, the subjects wild animals cannot be controlled or posed. Each moment is unpredictable, and the photographer must be prepared to capture fleeting glimpses of life in its rawest form. While the thrill of wildlife photography is undeniable, it also comes with a steep learning curve. Even experienced photographers make mistakes that can compromise their shots, the safety of the animals, or their own experience in the wild. By understanding these mistakes and learning how to avoid them, photographers can elevate their craft and create images that resonate with both beauty and authenticity.

Lack of Research and Preparation

Many photographers, especially beginners, make the mistake of heading into the field without proper preparation. Wildlife does not follow a schedule; each species has unique habits, feeding routines, and seasonal patterns. Entering a location without knowledge of these factors can result in frustration, missed opportunities, or even disturbance to the animals.

For instance, photographing tigers in India’s Jim Corbett National Park requires knowing their active hours—typically early morning and late evening. Ignorance of these patterns can leave a photographer standing for hours without any sighting. Similarly, bird photographers in the wetlands of Bharatpur must be aware of migratory patterns to capture rare species.

How to Avoid It:
Research is key. Consult field guides, watch documentaries, and connect with local wildlife experts to understand the behaviour and habitats of your subjects. Use maps and online resources to scout locations ahead of time. Planning also extends to checking weather forecasts, packing suitable clothing, and ensuring you have the necessary gear for the conditions. Preparation transforms a chaotic shoot into a purposeful expedition.

Using the Wrong Equipment

Wildlife photography requires specialised equipment. Many photographers underestimate the importance of lens choice, camera settings, and accessories. For instance, using a standard 50mm lens may be perfect for landscapes, but it is often inadequate for capturing a distant leopard or a soaring eagle.

How to Avoid It:
Invest in telephoto lenses, ideally in the 300mm to 600mm range, depending on the type of wildlife you are photographing. Cameras with fast autofocus, high burst rates, and excellent low-light performance are invaluable. Accessories like sturdy tripods, bean bags for stability, and remote triggers can make a significant difference in capturing sharp, composed shots. Always familiarise yourself with your gear before heading into the field—there is no time to read the manual when a tiger steps into view.

Ignoring Lighting Conditions

Lighting is a cornerstone of photography, and wildlife photography is no exception. Many photographers neglect the role of natural light, resulting in flat or poorly exposed images. Harsh midday sunlight can wash out colours and cast unflattering shadows, while low light without proper adjustments can create blurred, grainy shots.

How to Avoid It:
Aim to shoot during the golden hours—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—when light is soft, warm, and directional. Overcast days can provide even, diffused light, ideal for capturing details without harsh shadows. Learn to read natural light, anticipate how it will interact with your subject, and adjust your camera settings for optimal exposure. Sometimes, subtle shifts in position or angle can transform an ordinary shot into a spectacular one.

Disturbing the Wildlife

One of the most common and potentially harmful mistakes is disturbing animals to get a better shot. Approaching too closely, making noise, or startling an animal not only risks your photograph, but can also stress the animal or trigger defensive behaviour.

How to Avoid It:
Maintain a respectful distance at all times. Telephoto lenses allow you to capture intimate details without encroaching on the animal’s space. Move slowly, wear muted clothing, and minimise noise. Understanding animal behaviour can help anticipate movements without interference. For example, knowing that elephants have a keen sense of hearing and smell can help you stay hidden while observing them from a safe distance.

Poor Composition

Even technically perfect photographs can fail if the composition is weak. Common mistakes include placing the subject dead centre, ignoring background distractions, or failing to consider natural lines and framing. A cluttered background can distract viewers from the main subject, reducing the impact of the image.

How to Avoid It:
Use compositional techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and natural framing. Position your subject against uncluttered backgrounds whenever possible. Experiment with angles and perspectives—sometimes getting lower to the ground or shooting from a higher vantage point adds depth and interest. Take multiple shots and vary your compositions; creativity often comes from experimentation.

Overlooking the Importance of Patience

Wildlife photography is not a hobby for the impatient. Animals are unpredictable, and moments of action may only last a few seconds. Many photographers give up too early, moving on without capturing the decisive moment.

How to Avoid It:
Develop patience and immerse yourself in the environment. Spend time observing animals without the camera first. Learn their routines and anticipate behaviours. Some of the most iconic wildlife images—like the snow leopard staring through the Himalayan mist or the bald eagle swooping over a frozen lake—result from hours of quiet observation and waiting. Remember, patience is a skill as much as it is a virtue in wildlife photography.

Ignoring Post-Processing Techniques

A raw image straight from the camera often lacks the polish needed for publication or portfolio presentation. Many photographers make the mistake of underestimating the power of post-processing. Subtle adjustments can enhance the story without compromising authenticity.

How to Avoid It:
Learn to use editing tools such as Lightroom or Photoshop to adjust exposure, contrast, and colour balance. Crop images to improve framing, reduce noise in low-light shots, and sharpen details for clarity. Post-processing should enhance the image, not overtake it—keeping it natural ensures the photograph remains true to the wildlife moment.

Failing to Focus Properly

Capturing a moving subject is one of the most technically challenging aspects of wildlife photography. Misfocused images are a frequent source of frustration, especially when photographing birds in flight or running predators.

How to Avoid It:
Use single-point autofocus for precision or continuous focus for moving subjects. Back-button focusing can give you greater control. Anticipate movement and pre-focus on areas where the subject is likely to appear. Practice tracking motion to ensure the camera locks on the right point consistently. Sharpness is often what separates an amateur shot from a professional one.

9. Not Understanding Animal Behaviour

A deep understanding of animal behaviour can dramatically improve wildlife photography. Misinterpreting cues can result in missed shots or unsafe encounters. For example, a crouching tiger may signal a hunting stance, while a bird puffing up its feathers may indicate distress.

How to Avoid It:
Spend time observing your subjects before attempting to photograph them. Note how they interact with each other, their environment, and potential threats. This knowledge allows you to predict movements and capture authentic, expressive moments. The more you understand your subject, the more compelling your images will be.

Lack of Backup and Organisation

After a long day of shooting, nothing is worse than losing your photographs due to insufficient storage or poor organisation. Wildlife photography often involves capturing hundreds or even thousands of images in a single outing.

How to Avoid It:
Carry extra memory cards and external storage devices. Immediately organise images by location, species, and date. Backing up files to multiple sources ensures your work is safe and makes it easier to review, edit, and build a portfolio. Good organisation also allows you to track your progress and refine techniques over time.

Focusing Only on Popular Subjects

Many wildlife photographers chase iconic animals like lions, tigers, or eagles, ignoring the smaller, lesser-known creatures that are equally fascinating. This narrow focus can limit creativity and variety in a portfolio.

How to Avoid It:
Explore macro photography, insects, reptiles, and smaller mammals. Sometimes the most captivating stories lie in the unnoticed aspects of nature—a butterfly resting on a leaf, a chameleon blending into its surroundings, or ants working collectively. These moments often require patience and keen observation but reward the photographer with unique images.

Neglecting Safety

Wildlife photography can be physically demanding and sometimes dangerous. Harsh terrain, extreme weather, and unpredictable animals pose real risks. Many photographers overlook these hazards in pursuit of the perfect shot.

How to Avoid It:
Prioritise your safety at all times. Carry a first-aid kit, communicate your location, and adhere to park or reserve regulations. Avoid unnecessary risks, and never compromise safety for a photograph. Being cautious not only protects you, but ensures that wildlife is also not endangered by your presence.

Real-Life Anecdotes and Lessons

Professional wildlife photographers often emphasise that mistakes are part of the learning process. National Geographic photographer Paul Nicklen once shared how he spent two weeks tracking polar bears, only to miss the perfect shot because of a focus error. The experience, however, taught him to anticipate the animals’ movements and improved his future work. Similarly, photographer Cristina Mittermeier recalls countless mornings spent observing birds in Mexico, where hours of patience yielded extraordinary compositions that a rushed approach never could have achieved. These stories highlight that wildlife photography is as much about observation, patience, and learning as it is about equipment.

Practical Tips for Beginners

Start Small: Begin with local wildlife or birds before tackling large predators.
Learn From Others: Attend workshops, watch tutorials, and study wildlife photography portfolios.
Practice Patience: Set aside long hours to observe and wait for action.
Experiment: Try different angles, lenses, and camera settings to discover your style.
Respect Nature: Ethical photography ensures animals remain undisturbed and habitats protected.

Wildlife photography is a journey of constant learning and self-improvement. Mistakes are inevitable, but each one offers an opportunity to refine techniques, understand subjects better, and deepen your connection to nature. By researching thoroughly, respecting your subjects, mastering your gear, and cultivating patience, photographers can create images that capture not just animals, but the stories and spirit of the wild.

Gir’s Portrait Pundit – Tapan Sheth

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Tapan Sheth is a wildlife photographer who’s carved a name for himself through iconic portraits of Indian big cats, especially the Asiatic lions. Through his images, he aims to spread awareness and awe for the rich biodiversity in India with a keen eye on conservation. Asian Photography spoke to him about documenting & conserving wildlife, animal behaviour, unforgettable moments in the wild, and crucial newbie advice. Excerpts:

What first inspired you to focus on Indian wildlife, especially big cats?

When I visited the forest for the first time on a vacation trip, I never imagined it would change my life. The first time I saw an Asiatic Lion in Gir, it completely moved me. I still remember the feeling—the raw power, the grace, and the silence of the forest broken by its presence. It was almost magical. From that day, I knew I wanted to spend my life around them.

Big cats, for me, are not just animals. They are symbols of strength, survival and beauty. Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours in Gir, just observing them. Lions, tigers, and leopards have a presence that is impossible to ignore. Their strength, grace, and silent confidence make them stand apart from all other animals. For me, they are not just predators, but true guardians of the forest. Watching a lion walk with authority, a tiger blend perfectly with its jungle, or a leopard resting silently on a tree branch feels like watching pure magic.

I love big cats because each encounter feels personal, like meeting an old friend. What inspires me the most is how important they are for the balance of nature. By protecting them, we protect the whole ecosystem around them. That connection is what made me focus my work on these incredible animals.

Your images often capture intense animal behaviour. How do you anticipate those moments?

Capturing animal behaviour is all about patience, observation and understanding the forest. Animals never follow a script, so you can’t really predict every move, but you can prepare yourself to read the small signs they give. I spent a lot of time just watching them without clicking, and slowly started noticing patterns. For example, when a lion licks its nose, it often means a yawn is coming. When any big cat holds its tail straight and horizontal, it usually shows irritation or is a warning signal. Birds often poop before they take off, and different calls or alarm voices from animals can tell you that danger is nearby. These little signs are like clues to what might happen next.

Experience also plays a big role. The more time you spend in the wild, the better you get at anticipating behaviour. Sometimes it’s as simple as noticing the time of day. Early mornings or late evenings are usually when animals are most active. At other times, it’s about understanding their body language and the environment around them.

But honestly, the biggest factor is patience. I’ve learned not to rush, to sit quietly, and let the forest reveal its moments. When you respect the space and rhythm of wildlife, you get rewarded with those rare and intense behaviors—a lion roaring, a leopard stalking, or even a small bird protecting its nest. It’s not just about pressing the shutter at the right time, it’s about being present, observing deeply, and letting nature guide you.

Do you see yourself more as a storyteller or a documentarian when photographing wildlife?

This question is a little tricky because I feel I am both, and which one comes forward depends a lot on what I am shooting. Every photograph, no matter how simple, is both a document and a story at the same time.

When I photograph any subject, I often think like a storyteller. Their expressions, movements, and interactions are full of emotions and drama. A lioness carrying her baby in her mouth and shifting to another place, or two tigers fighting for territory already tells a powerful story. Through my lens, I try to capture that mood so people who see the picture can feel the same energy I experienced in that moment.

At the same time, I can’t ignore the documentary side of my work. Every image also becomes a record of wildlife behaviour, habitat, and even conservation value. For example, documenting any big cat crossing a railway track, or some passage of migrant birds rarely seen in a particular area, or even a unique natural history behaviour of an animal, all add important knowledge. Sometimes, a simple photograph of a frog, a snake, or even a tiny insect becomes a valuable piece of documentation of India’s biodiversity.

So, I don’t see storytelling and documentation as separate things. They walk together in my photography. A photo may move someone emotionally while also teaching them something real about the subject. That balance is what I try to achieve. If someone looks at my picture and feels a story while also learning something about the animal or its world, then I know I have done justice to both roles.

Indian wildlife is under pressure from habitat loss. How do you hope your photography contributes to conservation?

Indian wildlife is facing many challenges, and habitat loss is one of the biggest. Forests, grasslands, wetlands—all of these are shrinking, affecting every living creature. As a wildlife photographer, I believe my photography can help by creating awareness and building an emotional connection between people and nature.

Whenever I take a picture, my aim is not only to capture the beauty of an animal, but also to tell its story. When people see such images, they often feel a sense of admiration and respect for the animal. This connection can inspire them to care more about wildlife and the need to protect it.

I also try to share my work through exhibitions, talks, workshops, and social media so that more people can see the value of protecting our natural heritage. My hope is that when people fall in love with the beauty of Indian wildlife, they will support conservation efforts in their own way.

I see photography as a bridge between humans and nature. If my images can touch hearts and encourage even a few people to respect and protect wildlife, then I feel my work has made a positive difference.

If you had to describe the essence of Indian wildlife in one image you’ve taken, which would it be and why?

This image of an Asiatic lion walking along a dusty forest path is very close to my heart. Asiatic lions are found only in India, and their last home is the Gir forest. That makes this picture very special, because it immediately represents something unique about Indian wildlife that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world.

The forest around the lion, with its mix of golden and green trees, adds another layer to the story. It shows the natural beauty of India’s wild spaces—raw, wild, and full of life. These landscapes are not just backgrounds; they are the lifelines that allow animals like lions to survive and thrive. Through this frame, I wanted to capture not only the animal, but also its world.

The way the lion walks down the path, calm yet confident, gives a sense of power and freedom. It is a reminder of why these animals are called the “kings” of the forest. For me, it also reflects the pride of India’s biodiversity—strong, resilient, and truly one of a kind.

As a wildlife photographer, I believe one image should speak both emotionally and factually. This picture does that. It tells the story of a rare species and at the same time highlights the importance of protecting their home. To me, this single frame represents the essence of Indian wildlife—a combination of unique species, beautiful landscapes, and the deep connection between them.

What’s been your most unforgettable moment behind the lens so far?

There have been many special moments in my photography journey, but if I have to choose the most unforgettable ones, two experiences stand out clearly in my heart.

The first one was in Gir, when I saw a lioness carrying her tiny cub gently in her mouth while shifting it to a safer place. In my 12 years of photographing wildlife, this was the very first time I had witnessed such a scene. It was not just a rare sight, but also an incredibly emotional one. Watching the bond between mother and cub, the care and responsibility in her every step, touched me deeply. I still remember the moment so clearly—I actually had tears in my eyes while clicking. It was one of those times when nature makes you feel humble and grateful just to be present.

The second unforgettable moment was when I saw the famous tigress Riddhi with her cubs. They were crossing an island, moving gracefully through the water. The sight of a strong tigress leading her young ones, showing them how to survive, was breathtaking. It felt like watching a live drama of strength, courage, and motherhood, all unfolding right in front of me.

Both of these moments are etched in my memory forever. They remind me why I fell in love with wildlife photography—it’s not just about the picture, it’s about the emotions, the stories, and the privilege of witnessing such raw and beautiful moments in nature.

What would be the most vital thing you’d like to teach a newbie photographer about wildlife?

If I had to teach one vital thing to a new wildlife photographer, it would be this—don’t just focus on clicking pictures. Learn about the animals first, study their species, their behaviour, their habitats, and the role they play in nature. When you understand your subject, your photography becomes more meaningful and powerful.

Respecting the animals and mother nature is equally important. Always maintain a safe distance, avoid disturbing them, and never harm their environment just to get a shot. Wildlife photography is not about chasing popularity or getting likes and shares on social media, it’s about observing, learning, and telling the story of nature in the right way.

Cameras and lenses are so advanced today that anyone can take sharp and beautiful pictures. What will truly set you apart is your knowledge, patience, and respect for wildlife. Spend more time watching and understanding your subjects before clicking. The more you know, the better your images will be.

Like the famous line from the movie 3 Idiots—Don’t run after success; focus on excellence. In wildlife photography, excellence comes from respect, knowledge, patience, and a genuine love for nature.

No Subject Too Small – Aparupa Dey

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Aparupa Dey is a wildlife photographer dedicated to capturing the raw beauty of Indian wildlife. Her work spans across multiple habitats and species, highlighting the charms and challenges faced by her subjects. For her, no creature is too small, as is reflected by the respect and space she gives to them while wading through muddy plains and waist-deep waters pursuing the perfect shot. Asian Photography spoke to her about capturing a wide range of subjects, evolution of process, risks she took while making photographs and more. Excerpts:

How has your work and process evolved over the past years?

Over the years, my work and process have evolved significantly, shaped by both experience and deeper observation of wildlife. Initially, my focus was largely on capturing the obvious moments like clear sightings, striking compositions, and technically perfect shots. But with time, I’ve learned to slow down, anticipate the behaviour of the subjects.

Now, my process is much more research-driven and thoughtful. I spend considerable time studying species, their habitats, and behaviour patterns before even stepping into the field. The evolution of my work reflects a shift from purely technical execution to a more holistic approach blending preparation, patience, and creative vision to create images that resonate deeply with viewers.

What drew you to capturing smaller animals and birds rather than focusing on only big mammals?

I don’t judge animals based on size; I see them all simply as life. Growing up in a rural area abundant with wildlife, I began my journey as a hobbyist, often spending time by the riverside in my village, capturing little colourful birds, jackals, mongooses, and other creatures. Over time, I realised that these lives aren’t just existing, they each have a world of their own. If you take the time to observe closely, you’ll see how they interact, protect their nests, nurture their young, and display behaviours full of intention and complexity. It was this fascinating world and these behaviours that drew me to focus on them, even more than travelling to exotic locations.

Could you describe your preparation before entering the field and how do you choose your subjects on the field?

If I know the place and what I am going to capture then most probably I know what to expect and where. But things change when I go to a new place. Usually, it begins with selecting the species I want to photograph. Then I study them, their habitat, the best time for sightings, and the prevailing weather conditions. I also gather details about their life cycle, such as mating seasons or the right time to spot cubs.

And they do exhibit different kinds of behaviour during different times. For instance, if you visit a blackbuck habitat during their mating season, you’ll often witness males locking horns in dramatic fights to display their strength and to defend their territory. If one can position themselves against the setting sun, then they can capture dramatic images of black bucks locking horns with dust arising into the golden light. That’s where my research pays off.

After that, I connect with local guides to get firsthand insights and cross-check my research. I make sure to prepare weather-appropriate clothing, protection for my camera gear, and do a basic financial analysis of travel and related stuff. I also watch videos on YouTube about the location to get a sense of the landscape and possibilities there. Once all this groundwork is done, I set out on the field.

What was your riskiest experience in the wild—in terms of light, weather, movement or safety?

I think my recent Red Panda expedition in Nepal stands out the most. The terrain was extremely tough—we had to constantly ascend and descend sizeable mountains covered with thick bamboo, making movement nearly impossible. Carrying all our equipment through that was especially challenging. The slopes were steep, the ground damp, and being in a temperate forest meant the weather was unpredictable. Thick fog often reduced visibility to just half a meter, making every step an intense challenge.

How has guiding other photographers influenced your photography and vision?

Well, this is something which is a by-product of interacting with other people or fellow photographers. It forced me to observe more carefully, and explain the “why” behind every shot when asked, whether it’s about composition, behaviour or patience. It made me more conscious of my own approach, helping me refine my techniques. It’s also broadened my perspective, as seeing how others interpret the same scene often inspires me to experiment and look at wildlife in new ways.

How do you see fresh possibilities, perspectives and shots while shooting at the same place/spot?

The goal isn’t just to photograph a species, but to capture it in action and in dialogue with its environment. Even when the place and species are familiar, their behaviour and the natural conditions are constantly changing. By ‘natural condition’, I mean elements like light, shadows, clouds, rain, mist, temperature, and wind etc. all of which shift daily. These factors, combined with the species’ behaviour, open up countless possibilities for unique shots. And if you feel like your images are starting to repeat, simply switch to a different lens or focal length, and a whole new range of possibilities unfolds. And personally this concept has worked for me.

I started photography in 2014 a little actively while I was a student. From 2014 to 2022, for eight long years I kept on returning to the same stretch of river which is approximately 2km away from my home with my mother to capture wildlife and each day I returned with tons of images and a heart full of happiness of capturing and observing something special. Therefore all I would say is keep returning to the same spot whenever you can. Even if some shots repeat, you never know what fresh combination of action and environment awaits you next time.

If you could capture one image that represents your philosophy as a photographer, what would it look like?

If I could capture one image that represents my philosophy as a photographer, it would be of a wild animal completely absorbed in its natural behaviour, framed in harmony with its surroundings. Not a staged moment or a dramatic chase, but a quiet, authentic interaction between the species and its environment, maybe a bird silhouetted against shifting light, or an elephant emerging through mist. For me, that balance between subject, action, and nature’s variables is what truly defines my vision: to tell stories that are honest, intimate, and deeply connected to the wild.

Slow Mind, Soulful Stills – Mahendra Bakle

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Mahendra Bakle is a travel and documentary photographer from India whose work captures cultural stories and human connection across Asia. His images—often set in remote villages—blend natural light, emotion, and authenticity to reflect the soul of a place. Previously featured on our On The Horizon section, he’s now an internationally acclaimed artist featured in publications like National Geographic and more. Asian Photography caught up with him, talking about the evolution of his work, travel lessons, underrated skills and more. Excerpts:

How would you introduce yourself to someone who’s never heard of your work?

I’m a travel and documentary photographer from India. My work focusses on capturing cultural stories, traditions, and people in their natural environments, typically in remote and lesser-known regions across Asia. I’m especially drawn to moments where light, texture, and human emotion intersect. I spend time getting to know the people I photograph, typically sharing conversations, tea, or even laughter before lifting the camera. This approach helps me create authentic, respectful portrayals of the soul of a place and its people.

But, at the core, I remain a curious traveller with a deep love for culture, light, and storytelling through the lens.

How have you and your work evolved over the years?

Over the years, both my photography and my personal perspective have evolved in profound ways. When I first started, I was focussed mainly on capturing beautiful moments — interesting faces, scenic places, or striking compositions. But as I travelled more, especially through remote villages and culturally rich regions across Asia, I realised that the real power of photography lies in storytelling and human connection.

I’ve grown from being a silent observer to an engaged documentarian. Now, I spend more time understanding the people I photograph—their lives, traditions, and daily rituals. That connection reflects in my work, which has become more intimate, emotionally layered, and culturally grounded.

I’ve evolved technically as well. My editing style has become more refined—natural tones, subtle light enhancements, and a focus on preserving authenticity. Tools like Lightroom and Photoshop have helped, but the biggest change was internal: I’ve learned to slow down, wait for the right moment, and let the story reveal itself rather than chase it.

Each image today feels less like a photo and more like a conversation—a small but powerful bridge between cultures. That’s the evolution I’m most proud of.

What’s the earliest lesson travel has taught you, and is it still relevant today?

One of the earliest and most important lessons travel taught me is humility—the understanding that no matter how much you know, there’s always more to learn from the world and its people. When I first began travelling for photography, I would enter a place with a camera and curiosity. But very quickly, I realised that true stories don’t come to you unless you slow down, listen, and approach every place and person with deep respect.

While sitting with a tribal elder in Nagaland or sharing coffee with a monk in Myanmar, I learned that being present and open-hearted reveals far more than any guidebook ever could. That lesson remains just as relevant today—if not more—especially in a world where things move fast and surface-level interactions are common. For me, meaningful photography still begins with humility, patience, and respect. These are timeless values, both in life and in art.

Has Instagram changed your perspective about photography?

Yes, Instagram has definitely influenced my perspective—both in positive and challenging ways. In the beginning, it pushed me to be more consistent with my work, to develop a recognisable style, and to curate how I present stories. It helped me connect with photographers and cultures around the world, and brought my work to people I would have never reached otherwise. That visibility has opened doors to exhibitions, collaborations, and even meaningful conversations with strangers who resonated with an image.

However, I’ve also had to be careful not to let the platform dictate my vision. With the constant pressure to post, chase engagement, or follow trends, it’s easy to lose sight of why we begin in the first place. I’ve learned to use Instagram as a tool to share, not perform—to stay true to the slower, more intentional documentary style that defines my work, even if it doesn’t always follow the algorithm.

My core values in photography — storytelling, authenticity, and connection—remain unchanged even with the challenge that Instagram has presented.

With photography becoming more democratized now, what’s the most underrated skill newcomers ought to focus on?

In today’s world, almost anyone can take a beautiful picture—cameras are smarter, editing tools are more accessible, and inspiration is everywhere. Amidst all this, I think the most underrated skill is developing and staying true to your own unique visual style and voice.

When I look back at my journey, what set my work apart wasn’t just technique—it was the consistency in how I saw and told stories. For me, that meant focussing on natural light, human connection, cultural authenticity, and subtle, respectful colour tones. It took time to discover that voice, and even more discipline to protect it from trends and algorithms.

Newcomers often try to replicate popular styles for quick attention, but I believe true growth comes from shooting what you genuinely care about, again and again, until your work begins to speak for you—even without a caption.

So yes, learn the technicals, explore platforms, be inspired—but also spend time understanding what moves you, and allow that to shape your photography. That’s what will make your work stand out in the long run.

How do you think one can stay curious after mastering the basics?

I stayed curious by remembering why I started photography in the first place—not just to make technically perfect images. Even after mastering the basics, I still approach every assignment or journey with the mindset of a student. Curiosity grows when you step out of your comfort zone—whether it’s visiting a new place, learning from someone else’s process, or even trying to see the familiar with fresh eyes. Sometimes, I’ll go back to the same village or location, but with a different lens—emotionally and literally—and it leads to a completely new perspective.

I also find inspiration in slowing down. When you stop chasing shots and start observing more deeply, new layers begin to reveal themselves—light changes, human expressions shift, stories unfold. That’s where curiosity thrives.

So for me, the key is to keep exploring—not just the world, but also within myself. Photography is not a destination; it’s a lifelong journey, and there’s always something new to learn, feel, or express.

How do you teach someone to capture the story of a place rather than just a pretty snapshot?

I tell them to slow down, observe, and connect with the people and rhythm of the place. Understand the culture, light, and emotions around you. A story isn’t just seen—it’s felt. When you feel it, the camera becomes a bridge, not just a tool. That’s when storytelling truly begins.

How do you measure your success?

I measure success not just by awards or recognition, but by the emotional connection my work creates. When someone sees one of my images and feels something—curiosity, empathy, respect—that’s success. It’s also in the trust of the people I photograph and the stories I’m honoured to share with honesty and heart.

What’s your photographic signature?

My photographic signature lies in capturing authentic cultural moments with natural light, soft tones, and emotional depth. I focus on people in their environments—often in rural or remote regions—framed with simplicity, texture, and quiet storytelling. My images aim to reflect not just what a place looks like, but what it feels like.

Capturing Travel Chronicles – Chris Ha

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Chris Ha’s work is a visual treat to see, not only because of the passions that’s reflected in his well-composed frames, but also in the effort he puts in breaking tough concepts of post-processing in his videos. Spanning across multiple genres, his work has amassed admirers and acclaim from around the world. Asian Photography caught up with him to talk about his journey, mistakes, key learnings and more. Excerpts:

When did travel photography become more than just a hobby for you?

I’ve always loved photography. Back in my college days, I worked at a photo lab and would spend hours

studying other people’s photos, trying to understand what made them compelling. For years, I actually

focussed more on concert photography — capturing fast-paced moments in low light taught me a lot about timing, composition, and storytelling. I’ve carried a camera with me everywhere, but it wasn’t until my wife and I travelled to Japan in 2023. Travel photography really became something more. I posted a few photos from that trip on social media, and they unexpectedly went viral. That’s when I realised I wanted to take travel photography more seriously and share it as a form of art. It’s such a rewarding feeling when people connect with your work and see the beauty you saw at that moment.

What’s the first thing you learnt doing travel photography?

One of the first lessons I have learned is that the best moments in travel photography often happen when you least expect them. You have to let the scene come to you – not the other way around. That learning really showed itself during a trip to the Atacama Desert in Chile. We were driving in the early hours of the morning on our way to another location when I spotted something out of the corner of my eye. A

herd of vicuñas were quietly grazing, with the Andes mountains in the background, and the first light of sunrise casting a golden glow across the scene. It was surreal. I quickly asked the driver to pull over, grabbed my camera, and shot it right out the window. That photo ended up being one of my favourite captures. It was a reminder that sometimes the most powerful images aren’t planned – they happen when you’re fully present and ready to respond.

What are some mistakes you made early on that you wish someone had warned you about?

One big mistake I made early on was thinking I had to capture everything. I’d try to document every angle and every moment, afraid I’d miss something. But in doing that, I wasn’t really slowing down to observe or be intentional with my shots. Over time, I realised that great photography is less about volume and more about vision. It’s about waiting for the right moment, the right light, and the right feeling.

Another lesson was realising, you don’t need the latest gear to take great photos. I used to shoot on an older Canon 5D Mark III until just last year. It didn’t have all the features of modern mirrorless cameras, but it helped me master the fundamentals. Having limitations pushed me to be more creative and intentional every time I picked up the camera.

How do you handle failure or disappointment?

I’ve definitely had trips where the weather didn’t cooperate, access was restricted, or the photos just didn’t turn out the way I imagined. It’s frustrating at the moment, but I’ve learned to see those situations as part of the process. Not every shoot is going to be a win, and that’s okay.

I try to treat those moments as a reminder to stay flexible and present. Sometimes the best shots happen

when you stop chasing the original plan and start paying attention to what’s around you instead. And even if I come home without the photo I wanted, I’ve usually gained something else – a new idea, a better understanding of the location, or simply a good story. Those “misses” have helped me grow just as much as the successful shoots.

At what point did you feel confident enough to start sharing your knowledge with others?

It was after my first few travel photos went viral on Instagram. Until that point, I was mostly shooting for myself. There’s always that doubt in the back of your mind—wondering if people will connect with your work the same way you do. But seeing others respond to the photos and ask how I captured certain shots gave me the confidence to start sharing more of my process. That acknowledgement helped me realize that what I’ve learned could actually help others on their own journey. And the more I shared, the more I enjoyed being part of that creative exchange.

Was teaching always part of the plan, or did it happen naturally as you grew in your career?

It was never part of the plan, but I genuinely enjoy it. As I started sharing more of my work, people began

asking questions — about my camera settings, editing, or how I captured a specific moment. I realised I liked helping others figure it out. It’s fun to support someone in their own creative journey and help give them the confidence to share their art. The world just feels richer when more people are showing how they see things in their own unique way.

Has teaching others ever helped you see your own work in a new way?

Absolutely. Teaching forces you to slow down and really think about why you do what you do. When I break down my process for someone else, it makes me more intentional with how I shoot and edit. Sometimes I’ll explain something I do out of habit, and in doing so, I realise there’s actually a more efficient or creative way to approach it.

It’s also inspiring to see how other people interpret the same scene or technique differently. That perspective reminds me to stay curious and keep evolving. Teaching isn’t just about giving knowledge – it’s a two-way exchange that keeps me learning too.

What’s one piece of advice you always give to new photographers, no matter where they’re starting from?

Just start shooting and get your work out there. Don’t wait until everything feels perfect. The best way to grow is by doing, experimenting, and learning as you go. And don’t be afraid to share your work, even if it feels daunting at first.

Putting your photos out into the world, especially on social media, can feel intimidating. You might worry

about what others will think or whether your work is “good enough”. But the truth is, sharing your art is part of the process. It helps you build confidence, get feedback, and find your voice. Everyone starts somewhere, and the only way to improve is to keep showing up.

May 2025

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Asian Photography Magazine May 2025 Issue is out!

📸 Cover by: Chris Ha

In this issue, explore:

Capturing Chronicles – Chris Ha
Slow Mind, Soulful Stills – Mahendra Bakle
Best Travel Destinations in India
How to Take Sharp Travel Photos Without a Tripod
Minimalist Travel Photography
Tips for Shooting Landmarks Without Making Them Cliche

April 2025

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Asian Photography Magazine April 2025 Issue is out!

📸 Cover by: Alex Stead

In this issue, explore:

The Art of Capturing Expeditions – Alex Stead
Travelling The World’s Gullies – Shreepad Gaonkaar
Best Travel Photography Gear For All Budgets
Drone Photography On The Road
Portraits of a Culture
Street Photography in Crowded Place

April 2024

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Cover by Sean Dalton 📷

In this issue read:

~ Voyage From Vision to Discovery – Sean Dalton

~ From Local Trails to Golabl Tales – Ganesh Bagal

~ From Drawing Boards to Composing Frames – Hegde Arun

~ A Comprehensive Guide for Indian Photographers Embarking on International Sojourns

~ A Photographer’s Guide to Cost-Effective Travel in India

~ How to be a Travel Photographer in Your Own City

~ Fujifilm Instax PAL Review