Jignesh Panchal Interview
Q. Your work brings together wildlife, photography, and luxury travel. What first drew you to the wild, and how has that journey shaped you as a photographer?
My interest in wildlife started with a simple love for nature and animals. Once I started spending more time in the wild with my camera, that interest slowly became a passion. Wildlife photography has fundamentally changed the way I look at nature. Earlier, I would simply enjoy seeing an animal; today, I observe its behavior, surroundings, light, mood, and the story unfolding around it.
Q. Wildlife photography requires patience and presence. What has the wilderness taught you about slowing down and truly observing?
The biggest lesson the wilderness has taught me is patience. In wildlife photography, nothing happens according to your schedule. Sometimes you may wait for hours with nothing happening, and suddenly, within a few seconds, you witness something incredible. It has taught me to slow down, observe more, and genuinely enjoy the moment instead of always chasing a photograph.
Q. What makes a wildlife photograph more than just a beautiful image?
A photograph can be technically perfect, but if there is no emotion or story behind it, people may forget it very quickly. The best wildlife photographs are the ones where you can almost imagine yourself standing right there in the moment.
Q. As the founder of Vanya Into the Wild, how do you envision luxury safaris that offer comfort while leaving a lighter footprint on nature?
For me, luxury in the wild does not mean disturbing nature or building unnecessary facilities. Real luxury is having a comfortable stay, good food, a knowledgeable guide, and a quality wildlife experience. With Vanya Into the Wild, the idea is to offer comfortable and carefully planned wildlife experiences while always respecting nature. I want our guests to return not only with great photographs and memories, but also with a deeper understanding and respect for wildlife and conservation.
Q. What are some common misconceptions people have about wildlife tourism, and what would you like travelers to understand better?
One common misconception is that a successful safari depends entirely on seeing a tiger, lion, leopard, or another big predator. Wildlife does not work like that, there are never any guarantees. A safari is about the complete experience: the landscape, the birds, the smaller animals, animal behavior, and even the silence of the forest. I always tell people not to judge a safari solely by how many big animals they saw.
Q. From an ethical perspective, how can photographers capture powerful wildlife moments without disturbing the animals or their habitat?
The photograph should never be more important than the animal. We should always maintain a proper distance, avoid making unnecessary noise, and never force an animal to move or react just for a photograph. Photographers should also listen to experienced guides and respect the rules of the national park or reserve. Some of the best wildlife moments happen when the animal is completely comfortable with your presence.
Q. Is there a particular encounter in the wild that changed the way you see photography or life itself?
Yes. In Ranthambore, while we were waiting for a tiger sighting, we suddenly heard deer alarm calls and rushed toward them. Instead of a tiger, we witnessed a crocodile holding a deer in the water while more than fifty deer stood around, stamping their feet and calling loudly, almost as if they were encouraging it to keep fighting. That moment stayed with me. It reminded me that wildlife photography is not just about capturing beautiful images, but about witnessing raw emotions, survival, and stories that nature unfolds without warning.
Q. With technology making photography increasingly accessible, what do you believe still separates a memorable wildlife photographer from someone simply taking pictures?
Technology has become amazing, and today's cameras can do things we could only imagine a few years ago. But the camera is still only a tool. Understanding animal behavior, anticipating what may happen next, choosing the right position, reading the light, and having patience are still what truly matter.
Q. What advice would you give to someone who wants to begin wildlife photography but has limited experience in the field?
My first advice would be: don't worry too much about expensive equipment in the beginning. Start going into the field. Spend time observing animals and understanding their behavior. Learn how your camera works and practice as much as possible. Also, don't compare your photographs with photographers who have been doing this for many years.
BIO
Jignesh Panchal is a wildlife photographer and the founder of Vanya Into the Wild, a wildlife travel venture focused on creating thoughtfully planned safari and photography experiences. His passion for wildlife photography has taken him across diverse landscapes, from the forests of India and the African wilderness to the Arctic region of Svalbard. Through his photography and venture, he aims to inspire people to experience wildlife closely, photograph responsibly, and foster a deeper respect for nature and conservation.
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