Malaysian photographer Tinesh Sritharan has been named a National Geographic Explorer for his latest wildlife conservation project in Kenya’s famed Masai Mara National Reserve. He will document the breathtaking Great Migration, the largest annual movement of land mammals in the world, as immense herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles travel from Tanzania’s Serengeti to the lush grasslands of the Masai Mara.
Tinesh’s proposal to the National Geographic Society to document the Great Migration was approved in April, and he will begin his fieldwork in the Masai Mara on August 10, aligning perfectly with the peak of the migration season.
“The Masai Mara is the heart of the Great Migration. It is more than a visual wonder; it represents the delicate harmony between nature and humanity,” said 32-year-old Tinesh in an interview with Bernama.
His project, titled Echoes of the Savannah, will focus exclusively on still photography, avoiding video, drone footage, or other multimedia elements.
“My goal is to capture the complete narrative of the migration — not only the iconic river crossings, but also the intricate ecological relationships, the drama of predator and prey, the voices of indigenous communities, and the pressing conservation issues that shape this extraordinary phenomenon,” he explained.
His proposal was distinctive for its focus on the broader ecosystem, addressing issues such as human-wildlife conflict, habitat degradation, and the impact of climate change on animal behaviour and migration routes. To maintain both cultural and ecological sensitivity, Tinesh will work closely with local conservationists, ecologists, and members of the indigenous Maasai community.
“Before I begin photographing, I will consult with guides and researchers who have an intimate knowledge of the land. Their perspectives will help ensure my images are rooted in real, lived experience,” he explained, noting that he has spent months preparing mentally, physically, and technically for the fieldwork.
With the backing of Sony Malaysia, Tinesh will use the company’s latest 400–800mm telephoto lens, enabling him to capture wildlife from a respectful distance without disrupting their natural behaviour. He said Sony Malaysia’s support came through a proposal from the Wedding Professionals Alliance Malaysia.
“Their support goes beyond providing equipment — it reflects a shared belief in the mission,” he said.
Tinesh plans to spend up to 10 days in the Masai Mara documenting the migration, predator-prey interactions, conservation efforts, and the stories of local indigenous communities.
His work will result in a collection of high‑resolution photographs for publication and archiving within National Geographic’s editorial platform.
“My hope is that my images will help people understand that these animals are sentient beings within a living, interconnected system — one that we all belong to. A well‑crafted photograph has the power to change perceptions and inspire meaningful action,” he said.
Through Echoes of the Savannah, Tinesh Sritharan embarks on more than just a photographic journey — it is a mission to bear witness to one of nature’s greatest spectacles while amplifying the urgent call for wildlife and habitat conservation. By combining artistic vision with scientific and cultural insight, his work seeks to bridge the gap between human understanding and the natural world. As the Great Migration unfolds before his lens, Tinesh hopes his images will not only captivate but also inspire a deeper respect for the fragile balance that sustains life on Earth.
Source: Malay Mail
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