Name: Santosh Shelke
Picture title: New Journey
Category: People’s Choice
Nationality: India
Occupation: Part-time Photographer
Technical information
Camera: Nikon Z7II
Lens: Nikon 24-70 /4s f4
EXIF: f10, 1/200s, ISO 400
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
Santosh Shelke | New Journey
Name: Santosh Shelke
Picture title: New Journey
Category: People’s Choice
Nationality: India
Occupation: Part-time Photographer
Technical information
Camera: Nikon Z7II
Lens: Nikon 24-70 /4s f4
EXIF: f10, 1/200s, ISO 400
Santosh Shelke says:
As I lay in the grass, engrossed in the world of macro photography, I looked up to my astonishment to see large numbers of bats circling above my head. Their sheer numbers were astonishing; you rarely see bats flying in such large flocks during the day. It was clear their habitat had been disturbed and they were searching for a new roost.
My first thought was to capture this unique event. I scrambled to my feet, unzipped my camera bag, and quickly swapped my macro lens for a wide-angle lens. I framed the shot and captured the cloud of bats.
This moment was a powerful reminder of the hidden connections in nature. As I watched, it dawned on me that these fruit-eating bats were not a threat, but rather a vital part of this ecosystem. The “seed balls” I’d seen on the ground were evidence of their role in spreading new life. The seeds from the fruit they ate spread in their droppings, helping the trees and shrubs they now needed for shelter to grow. It was a beautiful yet moving sight: testament to the essential role bats play in the growth and health of the forest.
Santosh Shelke
India
My love for nature and the art of capturing it began 10 years ago. And it was all thanks to my mother! She encouraged me to look more closely, to see the magic in the details of the world around me. What began as a simple hobby grew into a deep fascination. I was genuinely amazed by the beauty of nature and the secret lives of animals.
That afternoon, with the sun high in the sky, I set out with my camera. Most photographers avoid the midday sun and seek the soft, warm light of the “golden hour” at sunrise or sunset. They say the harsh light creates unflattering shadows and washed-out colors. But I believe every moment has its own story. So I challenged myself to see what a different perspective might reveal in this bright, bold light.