FROZEN LANDSCAPES OF LADAKH

Wildlife and nature photographer Kedar Bhide takes us on an epic journey through freezing Ladakh winters

- Kedar Bhide

Could you please describe the term ‘ophiologist’ for the benefit of our readers?

An ophiologist is someone who specializes in the study of snakes (Ophis meaning “snake” and logy meaning “study”). While herpetology is commonly used to refer to the study of reptiles and amphibians, ophiologist specifically pertains to those who focus solely on snakes.

How would you relate ‘biodiversity conservation’ with photography?

Photographs have the power to stir emotions in viewers. Whether capturing the beauty of biodiversity or highlighting the challenges it encounters, these images evoke interest, affection, and concern among people, igniting the conservation effort. In the current era of climate change and human impacts, biodiversity is confronted with a formidable struggle for survival. Capturing these moments through photography is vital for documenting mankind’s history amidst the threat of biodiversity loss caused by its own actions.

Your photographs of Ladakh winters are amazing. In such bone-chilling temperatures, how do you take care of yourself and your photo gear? Any special lubrication required for the camera bodies and the lenses?

Starting with photo gear, modern cameras, lenses, and batteries perform effectively in cold temperatures. Batteries may have slightly reduced lifespan in the cold, so I keep my spare batteries in a woollen sock inside the inner pocket of my winter jackets to shield them from extreme cold. However, NiMH batteries perform well in cold conditions. I use professional cameras and lenses with weather sealing and have not encountered any issues in extreme cold. To prevent condensation problems, I avoid exposing my gear to heat sources when inside homestays or tents. Condensation can lead to ice formation when transitioning to colder environments, potentially affecting the camera’s functionality.