TO SERVE AND PROTECT

Sushil Chikane Sushil is a photo artist based out of Pune, Maharashtra. He says “I have traversed India extensively and there’s nothing I love doing more. With a cumulative experience of 18 years in the field, in association with an array of organisations and being trained in biodiversity, I have had the privilege to observe some very fascinating species. I garner deep love for India and try to tell stories through my photographs.”

- Sweta Baruah

What got you started in nature and wildlife photography in particular and why?

I grew up exploring various forests in India. Later, I took up wildlife studies to shape my interest. I took to photography with a point and shoot camera to photo document various species during my research. I used these images to share elusive species and wildlife encounters with the world. Having done it for a while, I explored serious photography when I bought my D-SLR in 2010. With time, I have explored photography with various lenses I could afford, to justify my art.

How do you typically plan your shots? Are there fixed steps that you follow?

I was told once that I don’t need to click multiple shots just because I can delete some later. The message was to click few, well thought images. This has helped me as I now try to click few but sensible shots instead of clicking multiple images, most of which I will never use. These shots are often planned. I know the region, its wildlife and possible action to expect. So now when I step out, I have few shots that I look forward to photographing. On the field, I anticipate them happening and keep myself ready for them. At times, there are some spontaneous photography opportunities that present themselves. I do not shy away from clicking those too. The idea is to document a good animal portrait, natural history moment, conservation issue or present wildlife in an artistic form.

Which of these is your favourite image? What is the story behind it?