Wild Wonders: Tapan Sheth's Journey into Wildlife Photography

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 Tapan Sheth from Rajkot 

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in photography?

My journey into photography started during an unforgettable vacation to see lions in Gir National Park. Seeing these majestic animals in their natural habitat was absolutely amazing. It sparked a huge interest in me to capture the beauty of wildlife.

It all began with a simple purchase: a camera I got to take photos of my daughter. I had no idea this camera would open the door to a lifelong passion. As I played around with it, I became more and more fascinated by the wonders of nature. I kept asking myself questions like: Why does a garden lizard change color? What makes a frog blow up its vocal sac? Why do deer make different sounds when they spot a predator?

These questions really piqued my curiosity and led me to explore the hidden behaviors of wildlife. My quest for answers and my desire to document these moments pulled me into the world of wildlife photography. Capturing these extraordinary moments became my way of sharing nature's beauty and complexity with others.

Through my lens, I try to show the incredible interactions and adaptations in the natural world. Each photo tells a story, showcasing the delicate balance of ecosystems and the amazing variety of life within them. What started as a simple family vacation turned into my journey as a wildlife photographer, all driven by a deep love for nature and a passion for discovering its secrets.

 

 

What inspires your photography, and how do you choose your subjects or themes?

Nature and wildlife are what inspire my photography. The beauty and complexity of the natural world captivate me, and I love capturing those moments through my lens. It’s amazing to share these wonders with others, showing just how incredible our planet really is. It’s what drives my passion for photography.

When it comes to choosing my subjects or themes, I look for unique and interesting behaviours in animals. I want my photos to tell a story and show the intricate details of wildlife. Sometimes, I focus on big, powerful animals like lions because they are so majestic and captivating. Other times, I might focus on smaller creatures like insects or birds to show the amazing variety of life in nature.

I love capturing big cats like lions, tigers, and leopards. Among them, Asiatic lions attract me the most. I have been photographing these magnificent creatures for over ten years now. Their grace, power, and the unique environment they inhabit continually inspire me.

I also consider the environment and how animals interact with it. For example, I might photograph a deer in a forest to show how it blends into its surroundings or capture the moment a predator spots its prey to highlight the dynamics of the food chain.

Through my photography, I aim to contribute to wildlife conservation. By raising awareness, I hope to protect wildlife so that future generations can experience these species in the wild, not just through photographs.

 

 

 

What has been your most memorable photography project or shoot, or any inspiring story around it, and why?

I love photographing big cats, and most of my work has focused on Asiatic Lions. They are my favorite subject, and I have been capturing their images for over ten years now. Asiatic Lions have a unique charm and presence that fascinates me every time I see them. Their strength, grace, and the way they interact with their surroundings are truly captivating.

I have many photographs that are very special to me, but two stand out the most. One is of a lioness carrying her cub, a moment I was finally able to capture after nearly 8-9 years of trying. The other is from Ranthambore National Park, where I took a picture of a tiger crossing a lake in a classic Ranthambore scene. These moments are incredibly special to me and constantly remind me why I love what I do.

 

What is your photography kit ? or we would say, what is in your camera bag?

Cameras

1. Canon EOS R6

2. Canon EOS R5

3. Canon EOS 1Dx Mark ii

Lenses

1. EF 400mm f/2.8 IS II USM

2. EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM

3. EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM

4. The EF50mm f/1.8 STM

5. EF 100 mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM

Apart from that extra batteries, tripod if required, rain cover, dust cover, and basic cleaning kit.

 

 

What advice would you give to photographers who are just starting out and looking to make a name for themselves?

For photographers who are just starting out and looking to make a name for themselves, my advice is to identify a style that represents you well and develop within that style. Find what truly excites and inspires you, and focus on perfecting it through continuous practice and shooting. Remember, photography is not easy—it requires dedication, patience, and a lot of hard work.

Study photography thoroughly. Look at what other photographers have achieved, but don't try to mimic them. Instead, learn from their techniques and experiences to find your own unique voice and style. This will help you stand out and create a body of work that is authentically yours.

When it comes to equipment, don't feel pressured to invest in expensive gear right away. Start with what you have and gradually upgrade as you understand your needs better. The best gear for your style is the one that you can afford and that allows you to capture the images you envision. Focus on learning and honing your skills, and the right equipment will follow as you progress in your journey.

 

 

 

 You can find Tapan Sheth on :

 Instagram: tapansheth