First Indian photographer to get shortlisted as Top 15 in Sony Awards (In the “Motion” category)
Chennai’s own VISHAL NAVEEN has taken Indian wildlife photography to the global stage, earning a coveted place among the Top 15 photographs worldwide at the prestigious Sony World Photography Awards. Selected from an astounding pool of over 430,000 entries submitted across more than 200 countries, VISHAL NAVEEN’s work stood out in the highly competitive “Motion” category—making him the first Indian photographer ever to achieve this distinction.
A doctor by profession and a wildlife photographer by passion, VISHAL NAVEEN’s journey is a powerful testament to dedication, patience, and an unrelenting love for the natural world. He has been shortlisted not only in the Motion category, but also in the Wildlife category for an image of a wild African buffalo taken at night.His heart belongs equally to the wild landscapes and majestic creatures that roam them. For over 11 years, VISHAL NAVEEN has devoted himself to wildlife photography, traveling across diverse terrains and enduring challenging conditions to capture rare and meaningful moments in nature.
The photograph that earned him global recognition is nothing short of extraordinary. Shot in the heart of the wild African savannah, the shortlisted image features a giraffe captured using a long-exposure technique under the cover of night. The hauntingly beautiful frame blends motion and stillness, transforming a fleeting wildlife moment into a timeless piece of art. The image reflects not only technical mastery but also immense patience and perseverance.
To capture this remarkable photograph, VISHAL NAVEEN and his team spent 14 to 16 hours each day inside an underground hide—an experience that demands both physical endurance and mental resilience. From evening until the following afternoon, they remained concealed beneath the earth, waiting silently for wildlife to approach. In the darkness of the African night, with only the sounds of nature surrounding him, VISHAL NAVEEN prepared his equipment and waited for the perfect moment. When the giraffe finally stepped into frame, he executed a carefully planned long exposure shot, capturing the graceful movement of the animal against the vast, silent savannah.
Underground hides are designed to allow photographers to observe wildlife at eye level without disturbing their natural behavior. However, spending extended hours in such confined spaces is far from easy. Limited mobility, fluctuating temperatures, and the uncertainty of wildlife movement test both patience and commitment. VISHAL NAVEEN’s ability to endure these conditions speaks volumes about his passion and dedication to his craft.
Being shortlisted in the “Motion” category at the Sony World Photography Awards is a milestone achievement. The awards are widely regarded as one of the most prestigious platforms in the global photography community, celebrating excellence across genres and styles. VISHAL NAVEEN’s recognition not only marks a personal triumph but also places Indian wildlife photography firmly on the international map.
For VISHAL NAVEEN, this achievement is not merely about awards or recognition. It is about storytelling—about bringing the raw beauty of the wild to audiences worldwide and inspiring a deeper appreciation for conservation. Through his lens, he seeks to highlight the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of protecting wildlife habitats.
Reflecting on his journey, VISHAL NAVEEN shares that wildlife photography has been a transformative experience over the past 11 years. What began as a passion gradually evolved into a disciplined pursuit of excellence. Balancing a demanding medical career with international wildlife expeditions requires careful planning and unwavering commitment. Yet, it is this dual identity—doctor and wildlife photographer—that defines him uniquely.
His accomplishment serves as an inspiration to aspiring photographers across India, especially those who pursue creative passions alongside full-time professions. VISHAL NAVEEN’s story proves that dedication, patience, and a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone can lead to extraordinary milestones.
From the bustling streets of Chennai to the vast African savannah, VISHAL NAVEEN’s journey is a reminder that dreams know no boundaries. Today, as a Chennai boy who has made it to the global stage in wildlife photography, he carries not only his camera but also the pride of a nation.
Indian photographer makes history by being the first person to be shortlisted from India in the “Motion” category.
