Photography can encourage wildlife conservation: Ace photographer Dhritiman Mukherjee | Kolkata News

Wildlife pictures is an important technique of documenting nature and counteracting prevalent myths

KOLKATA: Nature pictures is rather more than capturing lovely pictures. It is a robust medium for documenting the pure world, dispelling myths about wildlife, and creating consciousness concerning the pressing want for conservation, internationally acclaimed nature photographer Dhritiman Mukherjee advised the viewers at an interactive session on “Nature Photography: Myth, Reality & Purpose” organised by Science City Kolkata, a unit of National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) below the ministry of tradition.The programme was collectively organised with the Nature Club, University of Calcutta, and in affiliation with the Rotary Club of Calcutta Jadavpur.“Every photograph tells a story of patience, scientific observation, ethical responsibility and respect for nature. As habitats continue to shrink and biodiversity faces increasing threats, photography can inspire people to appreciate, protect and coexist with wildlife. It’s all about contribution, not competition,” said Mukherjee, known for his powerful visual storytelling and dedication to biodiversity conservation.A self-taught photographer from Barasat, he has gained international recognition for documenting wildlife and natural ecosystems. His work has been featured in reputed publications including BBC Wildlife, National Geographic, The New York Times and The Guardian. Through his photography, he continues to inspire awareness and action towards protecting nature and wildlife.The programme brought together students, photography enthusiasts, educators, nature lovers and members of the general public for an engaging discussion on the science, ethics and purpose of nature photography.Mukherjee explained that nature photography extends far beyond capturing visually appealing images. He emphasised that every meaningful photograph reflects careful observation, patience, scientific understanding and ethical responsibility towards wildlife. He also discussed common misconceptions surrounding wildlife photography and highlighted how responsible visual storytelling can contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation and public awareness.“Every {photograph} tells a narrative of endurance, scientific remark, moral accountability and respect for nature. As habitats proceed to shrink and biodiversity faces growing threats, pictures can encourage individuals to understand, defend and coexist with wildlife. It’s all about contribution, not competitors,” he defined.Speaking on the event, Science City Kolkata director Pramod Grover mentioned: “Science City Kolkata is committed to promoting scientific awareness and environmental consciousness through engaging public programmes that connect science with everyday life. This interactive session on nature photography provided participants with a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty of biodiversity while understanding the importance of conservation. Through collaborations with institutions such as the Nature Club, University of Calcutta, we aim to inspire scientific temper, environmental responsibility and a deeper appreciation of India’s rich natural heritage among young minds and the public alike.”