Frequently Asked Questions
How long have you been a wildlife photographer?
I have been enchanted by wildlife since I was five, but my journey into wildlife photography truly began at 19 during my first semester at the University of California, Berkeley. Surrounded by California's diverse ecosystems, from the forested hills to the vibrant coastlines, I was inspired to pick up a camera and capture the natural world around me. This initial foray into photography sparked a passion that has since taken me around the globe, allowing me to document the incredible biodiversity of our planet. From the myriad bird species of California to the marine mammals of the Pacific and beyond, each photograph has been a step further into understanding and appreciating the wonders of wildlife.
Where is your favorite place to photograph wildlife?
India is my top pick for wildlife photography, hands down. It’s like nature's playground, with an unbelievable array of landscapes – think deserts, grasslands, rainforests, mangroves, coral reefs, subtropical dry forests, and the world’s highest mountains all in one country. The diversity of life here is staggering; from the Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, and other megafauna wandering through forests, to the well over 1,300 vibrant bird species that fill the skies, to the staggering number of insect species, every corner of India tells a different story. My connection to India goes beyond its natural beauty; it is also where my family's roots lie, particularly in Gujarat. This region alone showcases a wide spectrum of ecosystems, from deserts to rainforests. What truly stands out for me, though, is the local communities' deep-seated reverence for their particular environments that hold a wealth of biodiversity. But I have seen this same level of respect throughout India, where local villagers and indigenous communities come together and work towards the protection of their small corner of the natural world. Their commitment to living in harmony with nature, preserving the incredible biodiversity around them, is not just inspiring – it's a lesson in conservation. Every time I visit, I am reminded of the importance of balance between humans and wildlife, and it's this blend of personal heritage and the natural world that makes India my favorite photography destination.
What is your favorite animal to photograph and why?
Gibbons have always enchanted me more than any other creature in the wild. These lesser apes, distinct from their great ape cousins like gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and us humans, showcase an incredible depth of behavior that's both fascinating and heartwarming. Found in the rainforests of South and Southeast Asia, gibbons lead their lives high in the canopy, creating a world far above the forest floor that's rich with stories waiting to be captured through the lens. What truly draws me to gibbons is not just their acrobatic prowess or their life among the treetops, but their complex social bonds and behaviors. They're monogamous, a rarity in the animal kingdom, and their method of communication is nothing short of extraordinary. Gibbon pairs perform stunning vocal duets to declare their territory and strengthen their bond, creating a melody that can be heard echoing through the rainforest over great distances. This blend of beauty, fidelity, and vocal artistry provides not just an opportunity for photography, but a window into the essence of their existence. I have been very blessed to have spent time photographing Western hoolock gibbons in Northeastern India, where I observed their movements and listened to their incredible songs. Each moment spent in their presence is an opportunity to capture a story, a glimpse into the intimate life of these captivating apes.
What camera and equipment do you use?
Throughout my photography journey, Canon has been my constant. Currently, I use the Canon R5, paired with the Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 lens, a combination that offers the versatility and range I need to capture the fleeting moments of wildlife in their element. This setup ensures that I'm always ready to document the intimate behaviors and stunning beauty of animals, whether they're in the air, on land, or in the water.
How can we follow your work or get in touch with you?
To stay updated with my latest adventures and gallery additions, please sign up for my newsletter! Here, you will receive firsthand accounts of my experiences, insights into the world of wildlife photography, and updates on my work. For inquiries, collaborations, or just to share your thoughts, please feel free to reach out to me at krunal20079@gmail.com. I am always eager to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts and photography lovers!