In a remarkable achievement, 10-year-old Vihaan Talya Vikas, hailing from Bengaluru, has received the prestigious title of the best photographer in his category at the esteemed Wildlife Photographer of the Year (WPY) competition, held in the heart of London. This recognition has catapulted Vihaan into the global spotlight, showcasing his exceptional talent in capturing the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
Organized by the renowned Natural History Museum in London, the WPY competition is renowned for its ability to bring together the finest wildlife photographers from across the globe. Often referred to as the ‘Oscar of Photography,’ this competition celebrates the artistry and dedication of individuals who have a passion for wildlife photography.
Vihaan’s winning photograph featured a captivating image of a spider intricately framed against the backdrop of a carving of Shri Krishna, found on the outskirts of the bustling city. It was this striking image that propelled him to claim the coveted award.
Vihaan’s journey into the world of wildlife photography was inspired by his father, who shares the same enthusiasm for capturing the wonders of nature through a lens. Speaking about his achievement, Vihaan expressed his joy and excitement, stating, “I am very happy and excited to receive this award. I love photography because it allows us to think creatively and connect with nature on a deeper level.”
The WPY competition received submissions from 95 countries across various categories this year, totaling an impressive 50,000 photographs. From this vast pool of talent, only the top 100 images were selected for consideration, with 11 photographers emerging victorious in their respective categories. Vihaan’s exceptional talent secured him the award in the Under-10 category.
Vihaan’s award-winning photograph will find a place of honor in the WPY59 collection and be prominently featured in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at the Natural History Museum. This exhibition is set to tour approximately 25 locations across four continents, furthering the cause of wildlife conservation and raising awareness about the importance of protecting our planet’s natural treasures.
Vihaan, a student at Kumaran’s School, embarked on his photography journey at the tender age of 7 under the expert guidance of his father. Dhritiman Mukherjee, a distinguished wildlife and conservation photographer who served as a contest judge, praised Vihaan’s winning photograph, highlighting its successful fusion of art, concept, conservation, and science. He commended the young photographer’s thought process and the meticulous composition of the image.
Vihaan Talya Vikas is undeniably a rising star in the world of wildlife photography, and his passion, talent, and dedication serve as an inspiration to aspiring photographers worldwide. His ability to capture the essence of nature’s beauty with precision and artistry has earned him a well-deserved place among the best in the field, and he holds a promising future in the realm of photography and conservation.