Techniques and Niches in Photography

Krisha Vora

Mar 17, 2024

Nimisha Ramachandran: A Passion for Wildlife Photography

Nimisha Ramachandran, currently pursuing an MBA in marketing from DePaul University, has a deep-rooted passion for wildlife photography. Nimisha's journey into wildlife photography began as a means to find solace in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Her interest was further piqued during a photography tour to Bandhavgarh, Madhya Pradesh, where she found inspiration to pursue wildlife photography as a regular hobby.

Insights into Wildlife Photography

Nimisha's advice for beginners in wildlife photography emphasizes the importance of learning about animal behavior, exercising patience, and involving the natural surroundings to capture unique and compelling images. She recommends that beginners focus on setting a narrative and understanding the behavior of the animals they wish to photograph.

When it comes to equipment, Nimisha suggests that all cameras can be used for wildlife photography, but personally recommends the Canon 6D Mark II with a 300mm or 500mm prime lens. She also provides valuable insights into selecting the right settings and essential lenses for capturing wildlife shots, especially for beginners on a budget.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

Reflecting on her own challenges, Nimisha highlights the initial struggle of balancing her priorities between studies and photography. She also emphasizes the importance of patience in wildlife photography and the need to be dedicated to the craft.

In terms of ethical considerations, Nimisha stresses the importance of maximizing appreciation for nature and refraining from being greedy in the pursuit of capturing wildlife images. She consistently reminds herself that she is a guest in the realm of animals, advocating for a respectful and non-intrusive approach to wildlife photography.

Tips, Tricks, and Memorable Experiences

Nimisha shares valuable tips and tricks for beginners, emphasizing the significance of changing perspectives, breaking the rules of composition, and the role of patience in wildlife photography. She also recounts a memorable experience that significantly impacted her approach to photography, leading her to adopt a more art-influenced style in her wildlife photography.

Community and Resources

For beginners looking to improve their wildlife photography skills, Nimisha recommends learning the basics, trying different fields of photography, and engaging with communities such as Toehold, Gliding Frog, and Sudhir Shivaram Photography. She also underscores the importance of understanding animal behavior and suggests that beginners can develop this skill by seeking guidance from guides and naturalists in national parks.

Post-Processing and Seasonal Considerations

In terms of post-processing, Nimisha initially refrained from heavy editing and focused on capturing images that satisfied her without extensive post-processing. However, she now uses Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop CC to enhance her wildlife shots. She also highlights the early winter mornings as a particularly conducive time for capturing stunning wildlife photographs.

Conclusion

Nimisha Ramachandran's insights into wildlife photography provide a valuable perspective for beginners looking to venture into this captivating field. Her emphasis on patience, understanding animal behavior, and ethical considerations serves as a guiding light for aspiring wildlife photographers, while her personal experiences and tips offer a glimpse into the art and dedication required to excel in this domain.