Through the Wild Lens: Field-tested Lessons from the Himalayas

Program Overview

Om Prakash Yadav conducted the wildlife photography masterclass “Through the Wild Lens: Field-tested Lessons from the Himalayas” on 1 November 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand. The program was organized by Photohostel & Photo Cafe Bangkok in collaboration with the Gehendra Dhimal Foundation.

The masterclass shared practical, field-tested experience from wildlife photography work in the Himalayas, focusing on working in challenging environments, understanding animal behavior, and using photography as a tool for conservation storytelling.

Partner Organizations

Target Audience

  • Wildlife photographers and enthusiasts

  • Photography students and early-career photographers

  • Nature and travel photographers interested in conservation storytelling

  • Visual storytellers working in outdoor and remote environments

Location and Date

  • Location: Bangkok, Thailand

  • Date: 1 November 2025

Purpose of the Masterclass

The masterclass was designed to:

  • Share real-world experience from wildlife photography in the Himalayan region

  • Build understanding of animal behavior and field conditions

  • Improve technical and practical decision-making in challenging environments

  • Encourage ethical wildlife photography and responsible field conduct

  • Show how images can be used for conservation communication and awareness

Key Topics Covered

  • Preparing for wildlife photography in remote and rugged landscapes

  • Understanding animal behavior to anticipate movement and action

  • Working with natural light in forests, mountains, and open terrain

  • Composition for species, habitat, and conservation stories

  • Managing safety, distance, and disturbance in wildlife situations

  • Ethical wildlife photography practices in sensitive habitats

  • Using images to support conservation education and public awareness

Approach and Methodology

The session combined:

  • Illustrated presentations using real field photographs and case examples

  • Story-based explanations from field assignments in the Himalayas

  • Practical guidance based on real challenges faced in wildlife environments

  • Open discussion and question and answer sessions with participants

The focus remained on experience-based learning, not theory, giving participants realistic insight into wildlife photography work.

Outcomes

By the end of the masterclass, participants gained:

  • Better understanding of how to approach wildlife photography in difficult terrain

  • Increased awareness of ethical responsibilities in wildlife photography

  • Practical insight into field preparation, patience, and observation

  • Clear examples of how photography can support conservation narratives

Why This Masterclass Matters

International platforms such as this masterclass in Bangkok help:

  • Share Nepal’s wildlife and conservation stories with wider audiences

  • Build regional understanding of ethical wildlife photography

  • Strengthen cross-border learning and professional exchange

  • Position conservation-focused photography within broader travel and media communities

This reflects Om Prakash Yadav’s commitment to using photography for education, awareness, and responsible storytelling beyond national boundaries.

About the Trainer

Om Prakash Yadav is a wildlife, nature, and conservation photographer from Nepal with over two decades of experience in photography, education, and visual documentation. He works with conservation organizations, research teams, and development partners to support ethical wildlife photography and accurate conservation communication.