More often than not, Om Yadav’s reputation precedes him. A famed Nepali wildlife photographer, Yadav’s work has appeared in publications the world over. When not in the wild taking pictures, he likes to photograph everyday people and culture, and take aspiring photographers on photo walks. In this interview with the Post’s Gaurav Pote, he talks of his body of work and the culture of photography in Nepal. Excerpts:

Tell us about yourself.

I was born and brought up in Mirchaiya, Siraha. I am the eldest of three children. I studied in Budhanilkantha School and then at Kathmandu University.

I love food and am very particular about it. I love to experiment in the kitchen as well. If I hadn’t taken up photography, I would have probably been an IT professional or, better yet, a chef.

For how long have you been into photography?

I started taking pictures back in 1991, while I was in college. I loved to capture landscapes, and cityscapes back then. I was just a happy shutterbug.

What inspired you to take up photography?

I went on a month-long trip to South India in 1995. During the trip, I got my hands on this magazine called Popular Photography Magazine. By the time I was done with it, I had decided that photography was what I wanted to do.

How has photography changed in Nepal over the years?

With the arrival of digital technology, standard photography gears have become cheaper and are more readily available. As a result, there is a lot more competition now. Although, I must admit, the quality of work has regressed.

What does it take to be a decent photographer?

Love and dedication towards what you do is definitely the key, but providing quality work without making compromises is just as important.

Gear or Skill: which is more critical?

Definitely skill. Because regardless of how good your gear is, if you don’t have a good understanding of the craft, all you get is snapshots. So, there is no alternative to honing and perfecting your skill. However,  having the right gear is just as important.

And, between technical knowledge and creativity?

I would say that they are both equally valuable. Especially when it comes to digital photography where the ‘darkroom’ is now almost totally digitised.

What do you make of the wildlife photography scene in Nepal?

Location-wise, it’s perfect. I couldn’t have asked for more. But, as for the market, I’m afraid; it’s not very good. There hasn’t been a lot of demand for wildlife photos in Nepal but things have certainly been looking better in recent years.

Wildlife photography must be interesting; do you have a favourite incident?

Wildlife photography is definitely very interesting, thrilling, and satisfying as well. I have countless memories from my trips. The most recent one is from my trip to the south-west region of the Chitwan National Park this May.  While on a walk with two guides, just as we turned a corner, we ran into a giant, male sloth bear. It was facing the other way and was about 10 feet ahead of us. I was ready with my camera to shoot, anticipating it to turn. The guides were ready to defend in case it attacked. Unfortunately, it sensed us and darted into the forest. I didn’t get an opportunity to photograph it looking at us, but the moment was so raw that the memory is going to last a life time.

What keeps you busy these days?

Apart from conducting photography workshops, I am busy taking wildlife and other pictures for my personal photo library. I also do weekly photowalks, which is my way of sharing my knowledge and experience with other enthusiasts. I’ve been doing it for eight years now, and it’s free for anyone to join.

I

n the end, some words for aspiring photographers.

Yes, a couple of suggestions. Having an in-depth knowledge of the subject and its surrounding is just as important as is your photographic skills. Do your research and try to learn something new every day; it’s not very difficult with all the online resources available.