A single accidental click led to a lifetime of passion. What started as a random shot of a sparrow turned into an unshakable love for wildlife photography. Without formal training, armed only with curiosity and determination, Vivek Boga ransformed his fascination with nature into breathtaking visual storytelling, capturing the wild’s untamed beauty.
By Dr. Vajranabh Natraaj Maharshi
Some careers begin with careful planning, while others start with a stroke of chance. For wildlife photographer Vivek Boga, it all began with an unintentional click-one that turned a fleeting moment into a lifelong passion. Raised in Velikatta village near Warangal, Vivek had no formal training in photography. Yet, today, his stunning images of birds, animals, and landscapes speak volumes about his love for nature. His journey from an ordinary young man to a celebrated wildlife photographer is a tale of curiosity, perseverance, and an unwavering connection with the wild.
A Moment That Changed Everything
Vivek’s fascination with photography wasn’t something he grew up with. At 20, he picked up a friend’s new camera out of pure curiosity, unaware that a simple test shot of a sparrow would shift the course of his life. The image, though accidental, stirred something deep within him-an urge to see and capture the world differently.
What started as a casual experiment soon turned into an obsession. Every rustling leaf, every fleeting shadow, and every golden sunrise became a scene waiting to be framed. He realized that nature wasn’t just to be admired; it was meant to be preserved through storytelling. With his newfound passion, he stepped into the wild-not as a spectator, but as a chronicler of nature’s most intimate moments.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Unlike many photographers who follow structured learning paths, Vivek carved his own. He had no mentors or formal training, but he had an insatiable curiosity. The internet became his primary source of learning, and the outdoors, his training ground. He spent endless hours experimenting with lighting, composition, and animal behavior, developing his skills througih trial and error.
However, choosing an unconventional career came with its challenges. Family and friends questioned his decision, often reminding him of more ‘practical’ career choices. Photography, after all, wasn’t seen as a stable profession. But Vivek remained undeterred, knowing that true passion could never be dictated by convention.
The Realities of Wildlife Photography
Wildlife photography is far from glamorous. It’s a test of patience, endurance, and resilience. Unlike studio photographers who control their environment, wildlife photographers work with unpredictable elements-harsh weather, rugged terrain, and elusive subjects that won’t wait for the perfect shot.
Vivek recalls countless days spent trekking through forests, waiting for the right moment. Some attempts ended in disappointment, while others rewarded him with breathtaking images. One of his most treasured captures-a soaring eagle at sunrise-came after many failed tries and early mornings filled with nothing but silence.
“Some days, nature cooperates. Other days, you return home with sore legs and no pictures-but that’s the beauty of it,” he reflects.
More Than Just a Photograph
For Vivek, photography is not just about freezing moments; it’s about deepening his relationship with nature. The more time he spends in the wild, the stronger his sense of responsibility towards it grows. His images don’t just showcase beauty; they tell stories of survival, coexistence, and the fragile balance of ecosystems.
He hopes his work will inspire others to see nature with a new perspective-not just as scenery, but as something worth protecting. Each frame serves as a gentle reminder that the wilderness is not separate from us; it’s a part of our shared existence.
A Photographer’s Evolution
Vivek’s journey has taken him to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and wildlife sanctuaries. From the hypnotic gaze of a tiger to the delicate flight of a hummingbird, his images capture both technical brilliance and emotional depth.
His early days were spent with borrowed cameras, but over time, he invested in better equipment. Still, he firmly believes that photography isn’t about having the most expensive gear-it’s about vision, patience, and the ability to see beauty where others might not.
Sharing the Passion
Vivek’s success isn’t just about personal achievements; it’s about inspiring others to follow their calling. He frequently shares his experiences and tips on social media, helping aspiring photographers navigate the world of wildlife photography.
His advice? “Your first pictures won’t be perfect, and that’s okay. Keep shooting, keep learning, and one day, you’ll capture something truly special.”
A Future Dedicated to Conservation
Looking ahead, Vivek envisions using his photography as a tool for conservation. He hopes his images will raise awareness about endangered species and the importance of protecting natural habitats. He dreams of collaborating with conservation groups to tell powerful visual stories that drive change.
For him, wildlife photography isn’t just a profession or a passion-it’s a responsibility. With every click, he hopes to bridge the gap between people and the natural world, inspiring a love for the wild that goes beyond admiration to active protection.
