In the quite early hours of a misty morning, while most children her age were probably still snug in bed, nine-year-old Shreyovi Mehta was already out exploring the wilderness.
Little did she know that this casual morning stroll would soon catapult her to international fame as the youngest Indian to win the prestigious ‘Wildlife Photographer of the Year’ title. Her journey from a curious child to a globally recognized photographer is nothing short of extraordinary.

Shreyovi Mehta: A Prodigy in the Making
Born and raised in Faridabad, Shreyovi’s fascination with the natural world started at an incredibly young age. By the time she was two, she was already showing signs of an innate connection with wildlife, a passion deeply rooted in her family’s love for nature. Her father, Shivang Mehta, is a renowned wildlife photographer, and her mother, Kahani Mehta, cofounded Nature Wanderers, a leading wildlife destination management company.
Growing up in an environment where wildlife conservation was a daily conversation, it was only natural for Shreyovi to develop a keen interest in photography.
But it wasn’t just about being surrounded by nature; it was the way Shreyovi absorbed her surroundings, the way she saw the world through her lens, that set her apart. Her parents recognized her talent early on and encouraged her to pursue her passion, providing her with the tools and opportunities to hone her skills.
The Winning Shot: ‘In the Spotlight’
On September 1, 2024, Shreyovi made history by becoming the youngest Indian to win the ‘Wildlife Photographer of the Year’ title, a competition organized by the BBC and now in its 60th edition. She was named Runner-Up in the ’10 Years and Under’ category for her breathtaking photograph titled ‘In the Spotlight’.
The image, which captures an ethereal silhouette of peahens in Bharatpur’s Keoladeo National Park, is a testament to her exceptional eye for detail and composition.
The moment was serendipitous. Shreyovi was on a morning walk in the forest with her family and Anish Andheria, President of the Wildlife Conservation Trust, when they came across a pair of peahens gracefully moving through the fog under a canopy of trees. With quick reflexes and a keen sense of timing, Shreyovi seized the moment, capturing a scene that would soon captivate the world.
Reflecting on her achievement, Shreyovi remarked, “I am glad that my image of our national bird has been given recognition by the Natural History Museum at the biggest stage of wildlife photography. I will continue to practice so that one day even our national animal—the tiger—gets the same recognition.”
The Wildlife Photographer Of The Year Competition: A Global Stage
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition is one of the most prestigious platforms for photographers worldwide, celebrating the art of capturing the natural world in all its beauty and complexity. The competition received nearly 60,000 entries from photographers of all ages and experience levels, spanning 117 countries and territories.
Kathy Moran, chair of the judging panel, spoke about the evolution of the competition over the years. “These images represent the evolution of the competition through the years, from pure natural history to photography that fully embraces representation of the natural world – the beauty and the challenges.”
Shreyovi’s accomplishment is not just a personal victory but also a proud moment for India. She is set to receive her medal at an award ceremony at the Natural History Museum in London on October 8, 2024. The event will be followed by the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2024 exhibition, which opens at the museum on October 11 and will run until June 29, 2025.
Shreyovi’s Vision for the Future
For Shreyovi, this award is just the beginning. Her passion for wildlife photography goes beyond just capturing beautiful images; she is driven by a desire to bring attention to wildlife conservation issues. “I hope to continue my passion for photography and bring more wildlife conservation issues to the spotlight through my craft,” she told the Press Trust of India.
Her journey is a reminder that age is no barrier to making a difference. Shreyovi’s story is inspiring children and adults alike, proving that with dedication, passion, and the right support, even the youngest among us can achieve great things.
The Role of Family and Mentorship
Shreyovi’s success is also a testament to the importance of family support and mentorship in nurturing young talent. Her parents played a crucial role in guiding her journey, providing not just the equipment but also the encouragement and exposure needed to develop her skills.
Her father’s expertise in wildlife photography and her mother’s experience in wildlife conservation created a rich environment for Shreyovi to thrive.
Moreover, having mentors like Anish Andheria, who is a stalwart in the field of wildlife conservation, has been instrumental in shaping her understanding of the importance of conservation efforts.
These influences have not only helped Shreyovi excel in her craft but have also instilled in her a deep sense of responsibility towards the environment.
Conclusion
As Shreyovi Mehta continues to grow and explore the world through her lens, there is no doubt that she will achieve even greater heights. Her early success at the age of nine is a clear indicator of her potential to become one of the leading wildlife photographers of her generation.