RIOT OF COLOURS

I have been in the Indian IT industry since 1993 working for a few IT companies like TCS, i-flex, and Sutherland Global Services. Since 1st April 2018, have taken a break from the corporate lifestyle and have been enjoying life and spending time on my hobbies. Photography is something I was always interested in. It is primarily a play of light and being a Physics student, it was always a fascination for me. It won’t be wrong to say that “with easier access to digital technology, photography has reached the masses”, and I am one of the beneficiaries here. Within Photography, Birding is my preferred category. With my interests in nature, have participated in the following training programs by the Bombay Natural History Society: • Ornithology • Leadership in Biodiversity • Bird Migration Studies and Study Techniques

- Uday Agashe

How did you get into wildlife photography? 

I was always interested in photography but with a busy work schedule, could not devote much time to it. Finally, in 2018 I decided to retire early and spend time on what I like. Initial few trips with experts made me decide on wildlife photography as my thing. Within that, bird photography is my favourite but I do love mammals and macro photography as well. By nature, I like to keep quiet and listen, and this genre of photography worked perfectly. I don’t have to talk to my subjects, just understand them better and then share my ideas/views thru photos (without talking to anyone).

Did you undergo any training in photography or are you self-taught?

I did a basic photography course with a friend of mine, to begin with. But most of my wildlife photography is on the field learning by watching the experienced guys. I take the opportunity to discuss their approach and specific settings for specific lighting conditions. A lot is also learned through various internet resources available freely.

Which are your favourite locations for wildlife (includes bird photography) photography in India?

Bharatpur in Rajasthan, Bhigawan in Maharashtra, and Rann of Kutch in Gujarat are my favourite bird photography locations. Ranthambore in Rajasthan and Dudhwa in UP are the jungles I liked for wildlife.

How do you decide on a location and how do you prepare for the shoot?