A great wildlife photograph can make you feel like you’re standing just a few feet away from a leopard, watching a lion stroll across the savannah, or looking directly into the eyes of a magnificent Bengal tiger. But here’s something most people don’t think about: what does that same moment actually look like to the photographer behind the camera? The answer might surprise you!

We’ve previously featured wildlife photographer Harman Singh Heer on 121clicks, showcasing his impressive collection of animal portraits. This time, we’re exploring his work from a completely different angle through his fascinating What I See vs. What I Take photography series.
Based in Perth, Western Australia, Harman specializes in wildlife photography and photographic safaris. His portfolio takes us deep into the natural world, featuring everything from powerful big cats and enormous elephant herds to giraffes silhouetted against breathtaking sunsets.
In this series, Harman shares two sides of the same encounter. One shows the actual scene through his eyes, where an animal might appear as a tiny figure in the distance or disappear among tangled branches. The other reveals the finished photograph, bringing every detail into focus. It’s a brilliant reminder that photography isn’t just about what you see; it’s about how you choose to capture it.
You can find Harman Singh Heer on the web:
The Magic Behind the Lens: Seeing Wildlife Differently
Wildlife photographer Harman Singh Heer proves that extraordinary photographs can emerge from the most ordinary-looking scenes. Through his fascinating “What I See vs. What I Take” series, he reveals how patience, perspective, timing, and creativity transform distant wildlife encounters into breathtaking portraits.
#1. A Lion in the African Wilderness

© Harman Singh Heer
#2. Two Leopards on the Move

© Harman Singh Heer
#3. A Giraffe Beneath the Burning Sun

© Harman Singh Heer
#4. Hidden in the Branches

© Harman Singh Heer
#5. A Herd of Giants

© Harman Singh Heer
#6. Perched Above the Wilderness

© Harman Singh Heer
#7. Through the Forest

© Harman Singh Heer
#8. The Peacock’s Grand Display

© Harman Singh Heer
The Big Difference Between Seeing and Capturing Wildlife
A leopard hidden among tree branches or a lion appearing as a tiny figure across the grasslands might not look extraordinary at first. But through Harman Singh Heer’s lens, these distant encounters become stunning wildlife portraits.
His comparisons reveal how much a photographer can discover in a single scene. The right framing and focal length can bring even the smallest details to life.
It’s a fresh reminder that great wildlife photography isn’t always about getting closer. Sometimes, it’s simply about seeing differently.
#9. A Face Hidden in the Forest

© Harman Singh Heer
#10. Into the Tiger’s Gaze

© Harman Singh Heer
#11. A Portrait in the Green

© Harman Singh Heer
#12. The Roar of the Wild

© Harman Singh Heer
#13. A Leopard on the Lookout

© Harman Singh Heer
#14. The Giant Emerging From the Golden Haze

© Harman Singh Heer
#15. Face to Face With a Lion

© Harman Singh Heer
#16. The Leopard’s Tree-Top Adventure

© Harman Singh Heer
Patience, Perspective, and the Art of Wildlife Photography
Great wildlife photography takes patience, timing, and a sharp eye for detail. Harman’s work shows how the right angle and composition can transform an ordinary sighting into something truly special.
From leopards resting in trees to elephants walking through golden dust, every photograph tells a different story. Natural light and thoughtful framing make these moments even more powerful.
The magic isn’t just in the camera. It’s in knowing what to capture and when to press the shutter.
#17. Giants of the Grasslands

© Harman Singh Heer
#18. A Mother’s Watchful Eye

© Harman Singh Heer
#19. A Giant Among the Birds

© Harman Singh Heer
#20. A Face Marked by Survival

© Harman Singh Heer
#21. A Herd Beneath the African Sunset

© Harman Singh Heer
#22. A Leopard Among the Rocks

© Harman Singh Heer
#23. Hidden in the Canopy

© Harman Singh Heer
#24. Face to Face With a Giant

© Harman Singh Heer
When Ordinary Wildlife Encounters Become Extraordinary Photographs
A tiger emerging from the forest, a leopard drinking at a waterhole, or a cheetah sitting beside her cub these moments become unforgettable through Harman’s creative vision.
His close-up portraits reveal details we might easily miss, from piercing eyes to beautiful fur patterns and powerful expressions.
That’s what makes this series special. It shows how an ordinary view can turn into an extraordinary photograph when seen through the eyes of a passionate wildlife photographer.
#25. The Lion in Motion

© Harman Singh Heer
#26. A Leopard at the Water’s Edge

© Harman Singh Heer
#27. The Leopard’s High Perch

© Harman Singh Heer
#28. A Lion’s Battle Scars

© Harman Singh Heer
#29. A Leopard Peeking From Behind a Tree

© Harman Singh Heer
#30. Hidden Among the Branches

© Harman Singh Heer
#31. Crossing the Safari Trail

© Harman Singh Heer
#32. The Leopard’s Quiet Retreat

© Harman Singh Heer
#33. A Tiger Emerging From the Forest

© Harman Singh Heer
#34. A Leopard’s Lazy Afternoon

© Harman Singh Heer
#35. The Tiger’s Fierce Expression

© Harman Singh Heer
Editor’s Feedback:
Harman’s work reminds us why wildlife photography never stops inspiring us. His creative vision, patience, and ability to discover beauty in distant encounters make this series particularly special.
- Creative Vision: Finds extraordinary moments in seemingly ordinary scenes.
- Patience: Shows remarkable dedication to capturing wildlife naturally.
- Composition: Turns distant subjects into visually compelling portraits.
- Storytelling: Makes every photograph feel like a memorable encounter.
- Inspiration: Reminds photographers to look beyond what they see.










