My Journey into Wildlife Photography in Nepal

I did not grow up planning to become a wildlife photographer. My journey into photography started quietly and unexpectedly in 1995, during a train journey in India. I came across an issue of Popular Photography magazine, and out of curiosity, I bought it. I still remember reading it cover to cover. That magazine opened a new world for me.

After returning, I subscribed to the magazine and began learning photography on my own. At that time, I was working in the IT industry in Nepal as a graphic designer and programmer for an outsourcing company. Photography started as a serious interest alongside my job. I used to photograph events as an additional source of income, while macro and nature photography remained my personal passion.

Macro shot of a Lime Swallowtail Butterfly

In 2006, I participated in a national-level nature and wildlife photography competition titled “Nature Through Lens”, organized by Wildlife Conservation Nepal. Winning the grand prize in that contest was a turning point. It gave me confidence and made me realize that my work had value beyond personal satisfaction. After that, I became more committed to photography and began exploring travel photography across Nepal.

As I traveled and photographed, colleagues and friends started asking me to share what I knew. In 2007, I started PhotoWalk Nepal as a free photographic knowledge sharing group. What began as a small initiative grew steadily, and it is still active today. Through photowalks and travel photography, more people and organizations started recognizing my work and reaching out for collaborations and assignments.

Ancient shrines in Upper Mustang, the Forbidden Kingdom, Nepal

In 2011, I made a major decision. I left my IT career and became a full-time photographer. Travel photography and photography training became my main sources of income. Wildlife photography was still more of a personal interest at that time, something I did whenever I had the opportunity.

But nature was always close to my heart. I had a deep respect for forests, wildlife, and the environment from the beginning. Gradually, I started spending more time in national parks, reserves, wetlands, and forests. Over time, wildlife photography became more than a hobby; it became my focus. It became the way I chose to work, to learn, and to contribute.

Royal Bengal Tiger in Community forest of Meghauli, Chitwan, Nepal

Today, I work as a wildlife photographer, conservation documenter, and trainer. My work is rooted in the field; in real landscapes, real species, and real communities. Field Notes is where I share these experiences: from wildlife photography trips, conservation projects, trainings, ethical practice, and behind-the-scenes moments from the field.

This blog is not about perfection. It is about the journey, the learning, and the responsibility that comes with working in nature.

Wildlife Photography in Chitwan National Park