Capturing Cultures and Climbing Peaks: Darshan Singh Negi’s Journey Through the Lens
Showcase is an effort by 58Miles to bring beautiful journeys of some of the amazing photographers of India & aboard . You will read about their journey, techniques, style and can see the outcome of their art in stunning frames. We asked them some questions to deep dive in to space and here we are....
Introducing 58Miles showcase photographer Darshan Singh Negi from Uttar pradesh
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in photography?
I hail from the beautiful state of Uttarakhand, although for the past 25 years, I have been still located in Lucknow. My love for photography started way back in 2017 when I took up clicking as a part-time passion. Gradually, this interest developed into a stronger passion, and since the last four years, I am engaged fulltime in travel photography. Travel is very close to my heart, and I have been fortunate enough to travel many states of India. My lens captures vibrant colors of festivals such as Holi in Sangla, Himachal, and Mathura, Theyyam of Kerala, Kandali Festival of Uttarakhand, Nanda Devi Festival, and many others.
My interest has gravitated more towards mountains and trekking in the past two years. This has led me to undertake treks like Kedar Taal, Nanda Devi Base Camp, ABC Trek, Namik Glacier, and several others Many reputed publications like National Geographic, Chizz Magazine, and Uttar Pradesh Tourism have featured my work.
To me, photography is not just capturing moments; it's telling stories, exploring cultures, and sharing in nature at its finest.
What inspires your photography, and how do you choose your subjects or themes?
My photographs are, therefore, greatly inspired by the pristine natural beauty and rich cultural diversity in places, as well as unique stories that every place and person holds within itself. Being a travel photographer means I am always surrounded by new experiences; it is the urge to freeze these moments—fleeting, yet timeless—and share them that keeps me moving.
I choose subjects and themes based on the emotion they hold for me and their narrative.
"I like taking pictures of different places, from wild outdoors to busy cities. I look for scenes that capture the heart of a place and its people. My goal is to take photos that show the beauty of a place and also tell a story that people can relate to."
What has been your most memorable photography project or shoot, or any inspiring story around it, and why?
While I've had many memorable photography projects, one outstanding one is the Kedar Taal trek. This project will always be etched in my memory because of the extreme challenges we faced. It was normally a 5-6 day trek; we did it in 3 days. The path was merely there; it had been destroyed due to landslides. Things were so bad that at one time we were walking on a ledge—a truly precarious situation where the slight misstep would send us tumbling into the depths of the river. As a matter of fact, one of our porters fell into the river, but luck and presence of mind saved him.
Yet at the very end, what we got was a view that simply could not be rivaled. Kedar Taal, surrounded by towering peaks, lay in front—a sight that made every hardship worthwhile. It turned out to be one of those reminders of why I do what I do—sometimes it is the hardest journeys that lead to the most breathtaking destinations.
What is your photography kit ? or we would say, what is in your camera bag?
My photography kit depends on where I am going and what kind of picture I am taking. If it's a festival, a trek, or visiting a new place, my gear will be such.
I currently use a Nikon Z6ii, versatile enough for almost any shooting condition. Along with my body, I have lenses like a 24-70mm for everyday use, a 35mm and 50mm for crisp portraits and street shots, and a 70-200mm to get the action out of reach, especially in the mountains or during events. I also carry a sturdy tripod for long exposure shots and low-light conditions.
Furthermore, I make sure to pack plenty of memory cards and batteries. These are very important and can be crucial during long shoots or when I'm in areas where it is impossible to charge.
What advice would you give to photographers who are just starting out and looking to make a name for themselves?
Follow Your Passion: Focus on subjects that you are passionate or excited to shoot.
Build a portfolio: The student should develop a powerful and diverse portfolio of the best pieces of their work.
Network with other photographers and people in the business of photography.
Learn Continuously: Keep upgrading your skills and learn new techniques.
Be persistent: Success does not happen in a flash. So, just keep pushing and remain dedicated to all challenges.
You can find Darshan Singh Negi on:
Instagram : negiwanderlust
