Mentor Portfolio

Wildlife Photographer • Software Engineer • Explorer

Akshay Kumar is a Bengaluru-based wildlife photographer whose passion for nature turned into active fieldwork during the 2020 lockdown. Since then, he has explored and photographed a wide range of landscapes and wildlife across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and more - from Bandipur and Kabini National Park and Jayamangali Wildlife Sanctuary.

Specializing in mammals, birds, and landscapes, his work has been featured in exhibitions at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, Geeksidea, and by the Karnataka Forest Department in Tumkur.

He shoots with Nikon DSLR and mirrorless gear, including a 200–500mm and 70–300mm lens setup, and has been recognized in photography contests such as GeeksIdea and Bandipur's weekly competition.

Beyond photography, Akshay has contributed to wildlife census programs, bird festivals, and training events across several national parks in India, often combining his field experience with on-ground conservation efforts.

Outside the forest, Akshay works as a software engineer at Sony India and dedicates at least an hour daily to studying animal behavior and landscapes. He believes that ethical photography - respecting wildlife and understanding their behavior - is as important as mastering the camera.

He lives with his wife, a certified yoga trainer and data analyst, and shares his love for wildlife with a family that supports his passion.