Who would have thought that a 9-year-old girl would qualify for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition after taking a leisurely morning walk in the forest? While taking a trip with her parents in Bharatpur, Rajasthan’s Keoladeo National Park, Shreyovi Mehta, a fifth-grade student from Faridabad, encountered this remarkable opportunity.
Recognition on International stage
Shreyovi Mehta has been named the runner-up in the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition conducted by the Natural History Museum (NHM) in London.
A perfect moment captured
She spotted two peahens while walking through the forest with her parents and took the opportunity to use her father’s camera to kneel down to the ground to take an amazing picture of them. Which made her claim this international recognition.
The Award-Winning Click
The captivating image, titled “In the Spotlight,” shows peahens under the morning sunrays beneath a canopy of trees.
Words from Natural History Museum
“It was this perfect moment that inspired Shreyovi to crouch down low on the ground to snap this dream-like image of these iconic Indian birds,” the Natural History Museum mentioned on their website.
Mehta was placed runner-up in the “10 Years and Under” category of the 60th edition of the prestigious award in Wildlife Photography. Her picture was among at least 60,000 photographs sent by people from 117 different nations and territories ranging in age and skill level.
A Heartfelt Gratitude
While sharing about her achievement, Shreyovi Mehta took to her Instagram and shared the same picture with a long caption, citing, “My heart is filled with immense joy and gratitude. Thank you to Mom and Dad. My parents have always supported me in chasing my dreams. Even when they seemed too big for a kid like me. Your love and encouragement have been my greatest strength. I am so proud to represent my Bharat on this global stage. India’s rich wildlife and heritage have been a source of endless inspiration, and I promise to keep working hard to bring more of it to you.”
Further, she also talked about continuing to learn, grow, and practice to continue becoming better and enhanced. “The journey continues, and I’m excited for what’s next! That’s Shreyovi’s promise. Thank you, everyone, for your support! Let’s keep celebrating the beauty of our planet together!” she wrote in her message.
Social media lauded
The social media post got widespread attention and major reactions, with many users commending the artistic side of the girl and her achievement at such a young age. A user in the comment section mentioned, “Right place at the right time. Btw, that deer to the right is so subtle it’s beautiful. I’d say the deer’s contribution to the picture is as powerful as the peacocks.”.
“Congratulations to Shreyovi for winning this prestigious competition. The next generation of wildlife photographers at a global stage,” another comment reads.
Simply stunning; you are an extraordinarily talented person with a natural talent. Thank You for sharing this perfect portrait,” another added.
Additionally, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition will be held at the NHM from October 11, 2024, to June 25, 2025. It will feature the world’s best wildlife photography, offering a visual journey through various naturalistic bounties, highlighting the beauty and fragility of life on earth.
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