Website:
https://ratishnair.in/
Country: India
Photography Genres: Wildlife
Favorite Camera Brand: Nikon
Socials: Instagram
What’s in your camera bag?
- 2 Nikon Z9 bodies
- 400mm f2.8 Z lens
- 70-200 f2.8 Z lens
- DJI OSMO Action 4
Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear?
Social media.
How is photography making the world a better place in 2024?
As a wildlife photographer, capturing the beauty of nature becomes a form of meditation, allowing for a temporary escape from life’s stressors. Moreover, the emotional connection formed with the subjects intensifies the commitment to conservation.
Sharing these evocative images on a global scale fosters a collective appreciation for the environment, emphasizing the urgent need for its protection. Thus, photography becomes a transformative force, addressing both personal well-being and the broader imperative of safeguarding our planet.
What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024?
In 2024, apart from general wildlife, I anticipate a surge in macro photography, capturing intricate details of tiny subjects often overlooked. This trend allows viewers to appreciate the beauty of the small and often unseen elements in nature.
Additionally, remote camera trapping is poised to gain momentum, enabling photographers to capture elusive wildlife behavior without disturbing their habitats. These trends emphasize a deeper connection with the natural world, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for its diverse wonders.
If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?
Oh, I have benefited from a few of them who have been kind enough to help me in my journey. I would, however, recommend to choose to learn from one mentor whose thought process and art of composition deeply resonates with you. This focused approach allows for a more immersive understanding of a specific style, fostering a profound connection between mentorship and personal growth.
By delving into the intricacies of their work, you tend to absorb their unique perspectives, honing your skills in composition and anticipating moments. This intentional mentorship provides a clear pathway for refining one’s craft while preserving the clarity needed to develop distinct photographic styles.
The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024?
AI and machine learning empower photographers with unparalleled tools. Pros include refined subject detection, automating mundane tasks, elevating image quality, faster and more precise autofocus, etc. It optimizes image processing, allowing photographers to focus on creativity rather than technicalities.
However, a potential drawback lies in the temptation to manipulate reality. AI can be misused for altering backgrounds, adding or deleting elements, and risking the authenticity of the craft. The challenge is to harness technology for skill enhancement without succumbing to the allure of manipulating narratives.
What is your favorite photography-related book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why?
“The Photographer’s Mind” by Michael Freeman stands out as my lodestar. Freeman delves deep into the psychology of visual perception, guiding me to cultivate a distinctive perspective. By understanding how viewers connect with images, I refine my storytelling through photography.
This resource is an evergreen companion, propelling my career forward with a nuanced and timeless approach to capturing the essence of wildlife in a way that resonates profoundly with audiences.
What is your go-to method for overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024?
Overcoming creative block involves self-reflection on past successes, mentoring for fresh perspectives, and embracing technology. Collaborative projects keep my wildlife photography dynamic, ensuring a continual evolution in my approach.
If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?
Patience! My key advice is to develop a keen observation and patience. Nature reveals its beauty in subtle moments, and by being attentive, you can capture extraordinary images. Take the time to understand your subjects, whether wildlife or landscapes, and anticipate their behavior. Patience allows you to witness unique scenes and create compelling stories through your lens.
Remember, photography is not just about clicking pictures; it’s about telling a visual tale that resonates with the audience.
Take the time to understand your subjects.
Ratish Nair
Can you share a specific tool, technology, or software that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer?
Adobe Lightroom has been a game-changer in my workflow. Its intuitive interface and powerful editing tools allow me to enhance and organize my wildlife photos seamlessly. The software’s cataloging system simplifies managing thousands of photos, making it an indispensable tool for any wildlife photographer. Lightroom has revolutionized how I refine and present my work, contributing significantly to the quality and efficiency of my creative process.
What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024?
My foremost strength as a wildlife photographer stems from my profound connection with nature. Embracing simplicity, I rely on patience, intuition, and a deep understanding of animal behavior to authentically capture moments in the wild. By immersing myself in the environment, I can anticipate and document scenes that reveal the true essence of wildlife.
However, a notable challenge I face is the inherent unpredictability of nature, Weather conditions, animal movements, and environmental shifts are variables beyond my control. Adapting to these uncertainties becomes a continuous learning process, requiring flexibility and resilience.
What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions?
Our journey as wildlife photographers encounters challenges beyond the lens. The digital era floods us with images, demanding unique perspectives. Adapting to ever-evolving technology is a constant test, requiring continuous learning. The ethical tightrope of capturing wild beauty without harming animals or manipulating images using AI challenges your artistic conscience.
Collaborating with conservationists and communities is not just a choice but a necessity. As photographers, we navigate these hurdles, striving not only for breathtaking shots but also for a positive impact on the fragile ecosystems we capture.
- Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer?
— Instagram - Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024?
— No - Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024?
— No - What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently?
— Nikon Z9 came up with this innovative feature called auto capture. The ability of the camera to capture images automatically by detecting subject and motion at a preset distance is breathtaking.
- What is your motto for 2024?
— Frames of Insight – Each photograph is an opportunity to foster appreciation, awareness, and a connection that transcends the surface, inviting everyone to see the world through a new lens. - Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers?
— A good quality Camera [doesnt have to be expensive], Good Quality Lens, Extremely good quality camera bag - Favourite photography digital tool in 2024?
— Photo storage
- Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024?
— I foresee a surge in immersive and impactful storytelling through wildlife photography. The ability to transport audiences into the heart of a rainforest or the depths of the ocean will revolutionize how we communicate the urgent need for environmental preservation. - One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio
— Observe nature closely
