The Art of Observing Forests: More Than Just Taking Photos

Written By Parag Kokane on Thursday, August 15, 2024 | 1:09 PM

These days, almost everyone heads into the forest with a good camera and expensive lenses, eager to capture that "Kadak Shot" for social media. But in the contest to get the perfect picture, we often forget what truly matters - experiencing, observing and connecting with nature.


Taking photos in nature is a great way to capture memories, but we often miss observing the best moments right in front of us because we narrow our view through the camera's viewfinder, adjusting the focus, and end up losing the entire 360-degree experience.

When you walk into a forest, your senses - what you see, hear, and feel are your best tools. You might hear leaves rustling, a bird singing, or see a branch moving. These small signs help you find wildlife, but if you're too focused on your camera, you might miss them.

Indian Pitta

For instance, when you hear the Indian Pitta's call, pause and watch instead of grabbing your camera immediately. You might see this colorful bird hopping on the ground, searching for insects in the leaves.

Humayuns Night Frog

During the monsoon, listen for the Nyctibatrachus frog near streams or spot tiny bush frogs like Raorchestes in the undergrowth. Their calls are loud, but they're often well-hidden, blending perfectly into their surroundings.


Look closely on leaves, and you might spot the Golden Tortoise Beetle. This tiny insect, with its shiny gold color, can be mistaken for a drop of liquid metal, but it fades to red when disturbed.

The Green Vine Snake is another master of disguise, blending in with the greenery around it. If you're patient, you might spot one, but without careful observation, you could easily miss it.

Patience is key in observing wildlife. The forest reveals its secrets slowly. The best experiences come from being fully present and aware, not just from taking pictures.

So, the next time you're in a forest, take a moment to soak in the environment before reaching for your camera. Listen, watch, and truly experience the wild. The memories you create with all your senses will last far longer than any photograph.
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About Parag Kokane

With my camera and binoculars, I wander through the beautiful landscapes of the Western Ghats, capturing the amazing wildlife and nature around us. On this blog, you'll find exciting wildlife observations, my thoughts on protecting nature, and more. Join me as we explore and help protect the beauty of our world together.

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