Chasing Light and Capturing Stories: Varun Aditya’s Journey from Business Student to Award-Winning Wildlife Photographer

Varun Aditya, the first prize winner of the National Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year 2016, is a self-taught wildlife photographer renowned for his vibrant, minimalistic compositions and his mastery of light and storytelling. Hailing from Coimbatore, India, and beginning his journey unexpectedly while studying business in London, Varun has since become one of India’s leading wildlife photographers.

Photo Credits: @glocksphotography

His work, regularly featured on prominent platforms like National Geographic, BBC, Apple, and HuffPost, captures the raw beauty of nature in a distinctive style marked by underexposed, dramatic scenes that reflect his deep reverence for wildlife. Through years of dedicated practice, including countless hours learning online and traveling extensively to explore habitats from India to Africa, Varun’s artistry celebrates nature’s intricate stories, inspiring viewers worldwide to connect with the wild in powerful, unforgettable ways.

Scroll down and inspire yourself. You can check Varun’s Instagram account for more amazing photos.

You can find Varun Aditya on the Web:

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Early Roots in Nature and a Journey to Photography

Born and raised in Coimbatore, India, Varun Aditya was surrounded by nature from a young age, which laid the foundation for his passion for wildlife and natural landscapes. While studying business in London, Varun unexpectedly found himself drawn to photography. Initially inspired by airplanes and birds in flight, his early experiments with the camera shifted his life’s trajectory, marking the beginning of a self-taught journey that would lead to international recognition.

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From London to the World: A Self-Taught Path

With no formal training in photography, Varun relied on resources like Google and YouTube to hone his skills. Driven by an insatiable curiosity, he quickly developed an artistic style characterized by vibrant, often underexposed compositions that captured the essence of his subjects. This commitment to learning and experimentation eventually paid off, with his photographs gracing renowned platforms like National Geographic, BBC, Apple, and HuffPost.

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Finding His Signature Style: Vibrant, Minimalistic Storytelling

Varun’s work stands out for its minimalistic yet vivid approach to storytelling. Unlike typical wildlife shots, his photographs often emphasize mood and emotion, making use of unique framing and wide perspectives. His signature style involves “chasing light” and carefully positioning himself to capture golden-hour moments in dramatic light. This artistic dedication has become his hallmark, with each image presenting a scene that tells a powerful, silent story.

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A Global Expedition Through Nature

In just seven years, Varun has explored and photographed wildlife across India and Africa, as well as diverse landscapes in countries like Madagascar, Costa Rica, Panama, Scotland, and Indonesia. However, it’s Kenya, especially the Masai Mara, that holds a special place in his heart. His more than ten expeditions to the African savannah have allowed him to develop an intimate understanding of the habitats and behaviors of the region’s wildlife.

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The Art of Storytelling Through Composition

To Varun, photography is more than capturing a visual; it’s about narrating a story through carefully considered compositions. His artistic process involves framing images that convey not just a moment but an atmosphere and context, inspiring viewers to connect deeply with the scene. This approach is rooted in Varun’s belief that a single photograph can sometimes speak louder than a video, conveying a tale in a frozen moment.

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Chasing Light: Mastering the Art of Timing and Positioning

Varun’s love for light and weather is integral to his craft. He is fascinated by how changing seasons and dramatic weather conditions impact the subjects he photographs, especially during sunrise and sunset. This dedication has led him to master the skill of positioning, an “artistic game,” as he describes it, of being at the right place at the right time to catch a scene bathed in perfect light. This skill has become a defining feature of his minimalist, atmospheric style.

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Beyond the Camera: A Passion for Post-Processing and Knowledge Sharing

Varun’s artistic journey doesn’t stop at capturing a photograph. He envisions how each shot will look in its final form and uses his knowledge of Lightroom to enhance its impact, bringing out the colors and contrasts that define his style. Known for his calm and amiable nature, Varun also takes great joy in sharing his knowledge with aspiring photographers, encouraging them to see the world through a similar lens of wonder and storytelling.

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A Legacy in the Making

Varun Aditya has not only become a celebrated wildlife photographer but also a storyteller of nature’s hidden wonders. His work inspires viewers to look beyond the ordinary and appreciate the intricate beauty of wildlife. Through his minimalistic compositions and mastery of light, Varun continues to redefine nature photography, building a legacy that showcases the splendor of the natural world one frame at a time.

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Conclusion

Varun Aditya’s journey from a curious student to an award-winning wildlife photographer is a testament to his unwavering passion, dedication, and innovative vision. His vibrant, story-rich images serve as a bridge, connecting viewers to the wild, encouraging them to see nature’s delicate balance and beauty. Through his unique style—where light, composition, and mood converge—Varun transforms fleeting moments into timeless narratives. His legacy as a photographer continues to inspire aspiring artists and nature lovers alike, proving that with determination, self-learning, and a deep love for one’s craft, even the most ambitious dreams are achievable.