Editorial Team at WallMag Updated on Jul 9, 2026 5 min read

Wild Whispers: An Interview with Wildlife Photographer Solanki Dhaval Rajeshkumar

What sparked your journey into wildlife photography?

It all started quite unexpectedly. I was sitting in my room one day when I noticed a yellow wasp perched on my window. On a whim, I pulled out my phone and photographed it, and in that moment, something clicked. I have always been a wildlife lover at heart—ever since I was a kid, I used to watch Nat Geo and Discovery instead of cartoons. That simple photo of the wasp reignited that deep passion and sent me down the path of wildlife photography.

What was the first animal or moment you photographed that made you think, 'I want to keep doing this'?

The very first spark came from that yellow wasp on my window. But the moment I knew I was hooked for life was when I photographed my first bird with an actual camera—an Asian Koel. The thrill of capturing that bird, with its glossy black feathers and striking red eyes, made me realize that this was more than just a hobby; it was a calling.

This moment captures more than just wildlife — it reflects patience, respect, and the silent connection I feel with nature. Every frame reminds me why protecting these wild stories matters before they disappear forever. This is the reason I hold a camera — to showcase their journey to the world.

Tell us about the candid portrait you shared. Where were you, and what was the vibe?

Dhaval Solanki | Somewhere between dusty trails and silent forests, chasing stories the wild whispers

Walk us through your 'hero' shot. What’s the story behind it?

I had been trying for this shot for almost a month. Every attempt failed, but I kept returning to the same place again and again, studying the behavior of the Baya Weaver closely. I focused on one bird, kept my shutter speed high, and used all focus points to improve my chances of capturing the perfect frame. It was never easy. Sometimes I stood there for four hours or more, waiting for that one moment. Even with a 102°F fever and a migraine, I continued shooting because I knew wildlife photography is not just about taking a camera and clicking a picture — it’s about patience, dedication, understanding animal behavior, and never giving up. The moment I finally captured this frame, it felt incredibly rewarding. It reminded me why I hold a camera: to showcase the journeys, struggles, and beauty of wildlife through my perspective.