JOHOR BAHRU: “Nothing good comes out of Aulong Lama”, echoes the old local saying in Taiping, Perak. Yet, award-winning wildlife photographer Mohan Raj Nair begs to differ. “Whenever people ask me where I’m from, I always mention I’m from Aulong Lama because people say it’s a very bad area. But I’ve given my hometown a good name through my photography,” Mohan, 30, shared.
Early Beginnings and Recognition
Despite only picking up a camera in 2020, Mohan has made a name for himself with his captivating wildlife shots from the jungles of Malaysia and Singapore, where he currently works as a security trainer. Based in Johor Bahru, Mohan has been recognised for his work on three occasions – an honourable mention in the prestigious International Photography Award 2021; a spot among India’s Top 7 Wildlife Photographers in 2021; a mention in 35Awards’ 8th International Photo Awards for the 100 best wildlife photos category.
Passion for Wildlife
A glimpse at Mohan’s impressive wildlife photography catalogue reveals his profound passion and dedication to nature. From majestic elephants and graceful birds to menacing-looking saltwater crocodiles and curious primates, Mohan captures their unique beauty, offering a glimpse into a world unseen by many. Mohan’s entry into wildlife photography was almost serendipitous. As pandemic lockdowns disrupted regular shooting, Mohan turned to YouTube tutorials and personal lessons from friends to brush up his craft, and he’s never looked back.
Challenges and Aspirations
Acknowledging the challenges of wildlife photography, Mohan shared: “I love the challenge. Being a wildlife photographer meant looking for elusive animals or hiding so that they don’t see you. All of these are fun for me because they are challenging. I’m not doing this for the money.” Mohan takes immense pride in his photography and vowed to never give it up, serving as a source of pride for his parents. And for Mohan, the most fulfilling challenge is yet to come – photographing Bengal tigers in India.
In the grand scheme of things, if wildlife photography has taught Mohan anything, it’s that the “characteristic features and values that animals display in their struggle to survive make humans realise that they may, in some ways, be more in tune with nature than humans are.” Follow Mohan Raj Nair on Instagram.
