While romancing his passion for wildlife photography, Omani photographer Ahmed al Washahi showcases Omani wildlife to boost tourism and conservation efforts in the sultanate

He spends hours on end awaiting drama in the thicket…his lens captures the minutest details – from the calculating glance of a lean lizard contemplating a leap to the subtle grimaces of owls perched on tree-tops. His show usually begins when twilight adorns the horizon…

For Ahmed al Washahi, 39, a keen wildlife photographer hailing from the Wilayat of Shinas in North Batinah governorate, every moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city is an opportunity to relish the wonders of nature. And he does so with absolute flourish, devouring as well as documenting what could be gone in a split-second.

To promote Omani tourism and underscore the importance of wildlife conservation, Washahi has shared over 500 captivating images on social media and his work has received widespread attention and appreciation from scores of his followers and fans, many of whom are well placed in organisations dealing with conservation of wildlife and the environment.

Speaking with Muscat Daily, Washahi reflected on his life-long fascination with wildlife. “Since my youth, I’ve been mesmerised by wildlife. I followed birds as they nurtured their young and explored the intricate details and colours of small insects.

“In 2013, however, I decided to turn this passion into a documented form by starting with wildlife photography using my mobile phone. The encouragement from my family and friends was invaluable. By 2016, I upgraded to a professional camera, capturing the beauty of wildlife in greater detail.”

Washahi has photographed a variety of species, including the Arabian red fox, owls, and eagles, showcasing the diverse and stunning wildlife of Oman.

“My focus on wildlife photography stems from a deep love and passion for nature. This field is often underappreciated due to the significant patience and perseverance it demands. I am committed to continuously refining my techniques to achieve my desired results. Moreover, my goal is to use wildlife photography as a tool to educate people about the importance of conservation. Protecting these natural treasures is essential for maintaining an ecological balance and ensuring the well-being of both, wildlife and humans,” the Omani photographer said.

“Oman is exceptionally rich in wildlife and features diverse environments, including plains, mountains, seas, and deserts. Each habitat supports distinct forms of biodiversity, making wildlife photography both challenging and rewarding. To effectively capture the essence of each environment, photographers must study the specific conditions of each habitat thoroughly. This diversity not only makes wildlife photography demanding but also inspires a deeper exploration and understanding of the natural world,” Washahi added.

The Omani photographer noted that destinations known for their rich wildlife, such as nature reserves, wetlands, beaches, and deserts, are highly celebrated for their biodiversity. These areas attract photography enthusiasts with their unique and abundant wildlife, providing endless opportunities to capture the beauty of nature.

Regarding the challenges of wildlife photography, Washahi observed that it is one of the most demanding forms of photography due to the unpredictable movements of living creatures. Success in this field requires repeated attempts and immense patience. Additionally, the high cost of photography equipment and the rugged, challenging locations where wildlife is found demand considerable effort and time for each shot.

After work hours, Washahi always sets specific goals and locations for his wildlife photography sessions. He typically uses the afternoons to reach these locations and capture his shots. Some areas near his workplace are frequented by migratory birds, which he also takes time to photograph and document.

Looking ahead, Washahi is featured in two films showcasing his wildlife photos – Wetlands and Owls in the Sultanate of Oman – directed by Abdullah al Raisi. He plans to continue using his wildlife photography to promote tourism in Oman and encourages Omani youth to pursue their dreams with dedication and hard work.