Kathmandu, Aug 17: A photograph is not just what is seen. Within captured and uncaptured images lie countless invisible emotions. Perhaps that is why it is said that a photo can express what thousands of words fail to describe.
Some pictures instantly evoke a feeling of awe. Wildlife photographs, in particular, bring us closer to nature. Seeking that intimacy with nature, Binay Rawal of Musikot Municipality–1, Rukum, has made wildlife photography his calling.
Clad in camouflage-like attire and carrying heavy cameras, tripod, and other equipment, he can be found roaming across different national parks, particularly of western Nepal. There, he often encounters wild and dangerous animals like tigers, elephants, rhinos and creatures like venomous cobra. He believes, “Wildlife photography is not a race; rather, it is an art of patience.” Binay waits for hours, sometimes even spending long stretches for a single frame.
Looking at Binay’s photographs, one feels that his lens portrays the deep gaze of a tiger not as a symbol of fear but as one of confidence. His camera lens speaks that truth. What began as a passion has now become his vision for the future. Currently wandering through Bardiya National Park, Rawal told Newspolar, “I have now started taking photographs professionally. At the same time, I also provide information about forests and wildlife to visiting tourists.”
He says, “Wildlife photography requires both courage and patience, and I now have both. That’s why I’ve been able to pursue my passion with perseverance.” Each of his photographs tells a story — sometimes conveying a message of conserving endangered species, sometimes reminding us of the fragile balance between humans and nature.
In recent times, pointing to growing human–wildlife conflict and the survival struggle of species hunted for food, Binay said, “If nature is protected, all living beings here will also be safe. That’s why conserving forests and the environment is extremely important.”
Binay shares his experience: “Nowadays, people are afraid of forests and wildlife, but when given the chance, they are tempted to exploit them. What we need instead is a relationship of friendship. This is possible if humans develop love and respect for wildlife. With that feeling, everything becomes possible.”
He has already gained extensive knowledge about the movements of big cats and other wildlife deep within the forests. Vinay shared that many of these animals seem to recognize him, often gazing at him with different expressions. Still, he must take every precaution and prioritize safety as he ventures into the wilderness in camouflage attire.
His priority is never to disturb their activities, play, or natural gazes, but instead to observe them with gentle eyes. Binay’s photographs are gentle, respectful. They inspire humility and remind us that harmony between humans and wildlife is possible only through compassion and respect.
It is his hobby to spend days camping deep in the forest, capturing moments and sharing these stunning images on social platforms including YouTube, Facebook, Twitter (X), and Instagram. He now hopes to connect with global organizations to showcase the richness of Nepali wildlife to the world. #nepal #wildlife #binayrawal
Here, however, we present some of his photographs of tigers:
