By Harish Sharma
NEW DELHI, 3 Sep: Delhi’s Yogesh Bhatia took to professional wildlife photography during Covid times. This showcases his unwavering passion for the natural world and his willingness to embrace new challenges and experiences, regardless of age.
At an age when many individuals might be considering retirement or winding down their careers, Yogesh Bhatia chose to embark on a completely new and adventurous path in sync with his spirit.
His decision to become a wildlife photographer demonstrates a deep-seated commitment to his lifelong love for nature and a desire to make a lasting impact on the world.
Undeterred by the physical and logistical challenges that often accompany wildlife photography, Bhatia has fearlessly ventured into diverse and demanding landscapes, capturing images of majestic big cats in India and Africa. His determination to endure freezing temperatures at the high altitude of 14,000 feet during his expedition to the Spiti Valley, serves as a testament to his resilience and unwavering dedication.
One of the most astonishing achievements in Bhatia’s portfolio is his successful endeavour to photograph the elusive snow leopard at this staggering altitude in the beginning of 2023. In the midst of the unforgiving cold, he displayed not only his technical prowess as a photographer but also his deep understanding of the animal’s behaviour and habitat.
Capturing the snow leopard, a creature renowned for its ability to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, is a testament to Bhatia’s patience, skill, and unyielding commitment to his craft.
Bhatia’s work being displayed on hoardings in Mumbai, featured on corporate calendars, and published by renowned platforms like National Geographic and Sony Alpha is even more remarkable when considering the age at which he embarked on this journey, mirroring the universal celebration of World Photography.
His accomplishments underscore the adage that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passions and leave a meaningful mark on the world.
Yogesh Bhatia’s story, intricately woven with the celebration of World Photography and including the remarkable feat of photographing a snow leopard at an altitude of 14,000 feet, stands as an inspiration to individuals of all ages.
It demonstrates that, with passion, determination, and a willingness to embrace change, it’s possible to embark on new adventures and achieve remarkable feats.
His life transformation into a respected wildlife photographer serves as a reminder that our potential for growth and contribution knows no bounds, and that every moment is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Making photography gear accessible, he paves the way for enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature without being held back by financial constraints.
Empowering Exploration: Starting Small and Dreaming Big For the young generation eager to embark on their own wildlife journeys, Yogesh’s message is clear: start small and dream big. He shares his own story of starting with a simple camera and gradually honing his craft. He emphasises that the journey is about learning and growing, and it’s the joy of connecting with wildlife that matters most.
Yogesh Bhatia’s legacy extends beyond his remarkable photographs; it’s a legacy of inspiring a generation to cherish and protect the natural world. His teachings encourage the youth to explore, learn, and marvel at the wonders of wildlife, regardless of their current circumstances. Through his mentorship, he fosters a community where passion and respect for nature are the driving forces, reminding all that a profound connection to the wild can be nurtured with the simplest of tools and the boundless enthusiasm of the heart.
In the exquisite narrative that began with a humble Kodak Brownie box camera, Yogesh Bhatia embarked on a journey that has now evolved into a symphony of imagery captured through the lens of a Sony Alpha 1 paired with a 400mm f/2.8 lens.
This progress mirrors not only the advancement of technology but also the evolution of his craft, showcasing his unwavering dedication to the art of wildlife photography.
From the modest beginnings of his exploration to the pinnacle of modern photographic prowess, Yogesh’s remarkable odyssey remains a testament to the enduring passion that fuels his captivating storytelling. Through changing tools and advancing capabilities, his lens remains steadfastly focused on preserving the untamed beauty of the natural world.
