Small is beautiful!

Zen moments with bird photography.

There seemed to be a void in my life until photography came along. I did not realise that happiness was just waiting round the corner. Many things come and go in my life, but photography is constant and always within reach. It’s mine and no one can change that or take it away from me.

Many years ago, I started photography by clicking my surroundings. I soon realised that the tall trees around my home had some interesting visitors; 20 varieties of birds!  And what began as curiosity soon became a passion. The months of September to January especially brought immense joy as I saw a lot of birds during that season. The whole atmosphere would be so vibrant that I would often comment: there is a riot of colour out here!

I think the birds taught me how to photograph, they honed my skill slowly but surely. In time I knew every bird call, and developed a knack for spotting them. My love for them led me to visit beautiful wildlife sanctuaries. This was many years ago after which I discovered that I enjoy street and landscape photography as well.

I carry this love with me now too when I drive to work. I spot birds sometimes in the morning but more in the evening. They sit on trees, traffic lights, electric panels, and wires. They must know the city well as they have the bird’s-eye view!

Over the years I have called this series of photographs Small is beautiful. In the urban jungle that I live in, the trees and the birds give me a breather when I travel. Every time I take a bird photograph, I feel I am paying homage to the bird. My photograph is my way of showing them that I truly value them and the zen moments they bring to my life.  In my early days of photography, the birds were my constant companions and that’s why I think they are special. Birding brings a certain kind of stillness making the restlessness disappear. I find beauty, purity and calmness in these interactions. And this connection is so fulfilling.

My love for the birds has also given me a deeper appreciation for landscapes and the natural world. Bird watching and bird spotting has made the act of seeing, a meditative experience which brings in zen emotions like joy and gratitude into my life. I think photographing birds is more than just getting some beautiful images. It’s a gift of the art of observation and the act of creation.

This journey of finding joy in little things and being present while connecting deeply with my surroundings has brought in a sense of calm and peace over the years. And it is something I will always treasure.

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