WallMag: Tell our readers a bit about Shivang Mehta.
Best selling author of ‘A Decade with Tigers' and Author of 'Chasing Horizons: Learnings from Africa' and International Award-winning wildlife photographer, Shivang Mehta has donned many hats in his long career journey, including that of a Journalist and a PR Professional. His love for wildlife and nature led him to begin his on-field career in the Sal forests of Kumaon 15 years ago. Shivang is the managing director of Nature Wanderers, India’s premier wildlife photo tour organisation, which he started with his wife, Kahini Ghosh Mehta. Having conducted over 1000 wildlife photography workshops and tours, along with many unique wildlife events and mentoring over a thousand amateur and professional wildlife photographers, Shivang specialises in photographing rare species and camera trap technology. He is also a Canon Photo Mentor, a Columbia Athlete and has been published in numerous national and international publications.
WallMag: How did you get into wildlife photography?
I used to work in a small campsite on the outskirts of Corbett in early 2000 and that's when my interest in wildlife grew and I slowly graduated towards photography. I am a wildlife professional first and a photographer later.
WallMag: What are the most difficult aspects of a wildlife photographer?
Life for a wildlife photographer who spends maximum time on the field is fun as one gets to explore new elements of nature all the time. However, it comes with its own set of challenges. Staying away from family for prolong periods at times without any connectivity, ability to thrive in all weather conditions and the ability to take field disappointments in your stride and gearing up again with a fresh outlook are the key hallmarks of a wildlife photographer.
WallMag: What kind of equipment you use and what did you start with?
My equipment was fairly basic when I started as the purpose was purely documentation. From a film camera, I migrated to digital and the inventory started building slowly on the basis of my needs and requirements. In today's time, I like experimenting with technology and do a lot of remote shooting as well as camera trapping. I have been shooting on the Canon system throughout my career.
WallMag: How do you plan a shoot from start to end?
An image or a story or a concept is first formulated in your mind and then the camera is just a tool to turn that into a reality. So the ability to pre-visualise is a must.
WallMag: What inspires you about wildlife photography?
Nature is a puzzle and a mystery and through the medium of images, we as photographers try to unfold these layers in the natural world. The infinite forms in nature give way to infinite ideas on how to photograph them and this constant zeal to innovate is something which keeps me going.
Follow Shivang Mehta on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated with his latest work.
