In an era where artificial intelligence and advanced photo-editing tools have made image creation quick and effortless, wildlife photography continues to stand apart as an art rooted in patience, discipline, and deep respect for nature. Capturing genuine images of animals in the wild requires time, self-control, and a meaningful connection with the natural environment. While heavily edited visuals often dominate social media, authentic wildlife photography retains its unique power through honesty and emotional depth.
One such committed photographer is Prakash Desai, an Indian-origin wildlife photographer based in the United States. Desai firmly believes that wildlife photography cannot be rushed or manufactured through software. According to him, powerful images are created only by spending long hours in forests, observing wildlife closely, and waiting patiently for the right moment.
Over several decades, Prakash Desai has travelled extensively across forests, deserts, coastal regions, and national parks in the United States, Canada, New Zealand, and India. On five occasions, he drove nearly 5,000 kilometres from the US to Canada solely for photography. In August 2015, he also undertook a dedicated wildlife photography expedition in New Zealand.
Born in Santrampur in Panchmahal district and originally from Bhadeli in Bulsar, Gujarat, Desai completed his schooling in Bilimora before studying science at Bombay University. He moved to the United States in 1966 and earned a degree in Petroleum Engineering in 1970. He later pursued Business Administration at the University of Chicago. Along with his wife, Dr Geeta Desai, he worked in the Texas oil industry and currently runs his business, Om Tech Inc.
Although his professional career followed a different path, photography remained his true calling. At Rajasthan’s Ranthambore National Park, Desai waited patiently for 18 years before finally capturing a rare image of a tigress. His photographs were recently exhibited in India, with another exhibition scheduled to be held soon in Vadodara.
Even at the age of 80, Prakash Desai remains actively engaged with his camera and the wilderness. He does not use Photoshop or any editing software, believing that a true photograph is created by nature itself. His journey stands as a powerful reminder that passion, patience, and authenticity know no age.
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