World Photography Day: Memoirs of woman photographer with passion for the craft!

The click of a camera shutter, just like the sound of a bird’s song, captures a moment forever. In a field traditionally dominated by men, it is heartening and a matter of pride to see women achieving great feats in photography.

But what challenges do women face in this field? What are the thrilling moments experienced while taking photos, and why choose to become a photographer? A noted amateur bird and wildlife photographer from our state shared her insights on these questions…

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After working for three decades as a Kannada lecturer and principal, I retired in 2015. Post-retirement, I wanted to stay active, and photography beckoned me. Although I had taken photos at college events before, I had never pursued it seriously. In our later years, we are like children, with new passions emerging. This is how the world of birds drew me in, and photographing them became my hobby. Photography offers both creativity and a sense of activity.

I Waited Two Days for that Bird:

For the sake of bird photography, I have traveled across 16 states in India, including Odisha, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, and the Andaman-Nicobar Islands. I’ve even visited Bhutan for ten days. Finding the birds is a challenge in itself, and reaching them is another. In the Mishmi Hills of Arunachal Pradesh, the Skeletal Monal bird is a rare sight. I waited from 4 a.m. for two days, camera ready, but the bird never appeared. However, on the third day, luck was on my side, and I finally captured its photo.

Carrying 8 kg Around:

I’m 69 years old now. At this age, it’s hard for many to believe that I roam the forests searching for birds. It’s not just about wandering; carrying a camera, 2-3 lenses, and tripods—altogether weighing about 8 kg—along with my bag, is quite the feat. I’ve done this alone in many places. My age and the camera’s weight pale in comparison to my passion for birds. Even airport staff have been surprised and asked, “Do you do photography?” upon seeing my camera. Last year, I spent Rs 5.5 lakhs to buy a new Canon R5 camera. It’s indeed an expensive hobby.

I Learned from Experience:

I’ve had unique experiences taking photos while standing in the forest, on a boat, on a raft, or even sitting on the ground in the wilderness. I have not received any formal training in photography; most of my learning came from experience. I also watched many YouTube videos to understand background, focusing points, aperture, and shutter speed. Apart from taking photos, I’ve collected some rare ones too. I’m particularly fond of Mahatma Gandhi and Kuvempu and have gathered rare photos of them. I also have photos of Rabindranath Tagore.

Descending 2,000 Feet:

Searching for birds in dense forests is an exhilarating experience. In the Lot Pancher area of West Bengal, I once descended 2,000 feet into the forest to take photos of birds. This remains an unforgettable memory. So far, I have captured photos of 900 different bird species. There are still 300 birds on my list, and I am waiting for the right moment to photograph them.

Encounter with a Leopard While Birdwatching!

Once, while returning from Ooty after photographing birds, I was passing through Bandipur Forest. I spotted a leopard sitting by the roadside bushes. I quickly grabbed my camera and clicked a few shots. It stayed for a while before leaving. Another time, during a safari in Kabini, I came across a tiger and took its photo. No matter which forest I visit, I always focus on photographing birds. However, there have been instances where I encountered leopards, elephants, and tigers.

Translated version of Kannada article by Leela Appaji, Mandya