Archive · 23 Dec 2025
Indian Photographer Tops Global Wildlife Photography Awards
Baiju Patil, an Indian wildlife photographer, won the top prize in a global photography competition.
His winning photo shows a snakebird catching a fish and a heron watching nearby.
The photo was taken at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.
Patil has been taking photos of wildlife for 37 years.
He teaches young photographers how to take pictures of animals in a way that is good for nature.
The judges liked his photo because it shows how animals live in balance with each other.
Patil's success is a big deal for India because no Indian photographer has won this award before.
Baiju Patil won the Refocus Awards 2025, ranking World No. 1 in wildlife photography.
His winning photograph captured a snakebird with a fish in its beak and a grey heron at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.
Patil's success is historic as it is the first time an Indian photographer has received this honor.
The photograph reflects Patil's 37-year journey and disciplined approach to wildlife photography.
Patil mentors young photographers and conservationists, promoting ethical practices and long-term engagement with nature.
- Who
- Baiju Patil, an Indian wildlife photographer and Head of MGM University
- What
- Baiju Patil won the Refocus Awards 2025, ranking World No. 1 in wildlife photography
- When
- The award was received in 2025
- Where
- The photograph was taken at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, India
- Why
- The photograph captured a rare moment of a snakebird rising from the water with a fish in its beak, alongside a grey heron, showcasing Patil's patience and understanding of wildlife
- Photographer
- Baiju Patil
- Award
- Refocus Awards 2025
- Rank
- World No. 1
- Countries Competing
- 109
- Location of Photograph
- Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
- Subject of Photograph
- Snakebird and Grey Heron
- Photographer's Experience
- 37 years
- Photographer's Role
- Head of MGM University