Qatar-based Indian photographer, Vishnu Gopal has been named the NHM (Natural History Museum, London) Photographer of the Year 2023 in the category of Animal Portraits. The award was announced on Wednesday at a special event in London and presented to Gopal by Chris Packham, a naturalist and nature photographer.
Speaking to Gulf Times from London, Gopal said: "I am truly humbled and honoured to receive this recognition from the Natural History Museum. This award means a lot to me, as it reinforces the significance of wildlife photography in promoting conservation and awareness. I hope my work can continue to inspire love for our natural world and commitment to its protection."
Gopal's winning photograph features an awe-inspiring portrait of Tapir, South America's largest native land mammal. The powerful image captures the intensity in the animal’s eyes, showcasing its primal beauty and vulnerability, all in a single frame.
The perfect blend of artistry and respect for the animal's dignity made it an outstanding choice for the top prize. The winning image will be prominently displayed at NHM. He will also have the opportunity to present his work to a global audience through the museum's exhibitions.
The NHM Photographer of the Year competition is a global platform that recognises and honours photographers who excel in capturing the natural world's marvels. According to reports, this year, there were about 50,000 entries from 95 countries competing for the award. NHM is renowned for celebrating exceptional wildlife photography, and Gopal's achievement is a testament to his passion and skill.
Gopal has been working in Qatar for the last 14 years and his ability to capture the intricate and mesmerising moments of the animal kingdom quickly drew the attention of photography enthusiasts and experts alike. He has long been dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preserving and protecting the planet's diverse species. His work, often featured in exhibitions and photography magazines, underscores the urgent need for wildlife conservation.
He is the current president of ICC Photography club Qatar, and the founder member of Photography Malayalam Qatar, one of the largest photography groups in Qatar.