Every photograph tells a story and, for Avanka, these stories begin in the wilds of Sri Lanka.
From a young age, a deep love for nature shaped the life and interests of Sri Lankan photographer Avanka Fernando. Even as a child, spending time in the garden, admiring the beauty of the natural world, was more than a pastime – it was a source of joy and inspiration. However, the pivotal influence that led to a career in wildlife photography came from an uncle, Nirmal Fernando, whose enthusiasm for wildlife ignited a deeper connection to the natural world. Frequently exposed to captivating stories of adventures across Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes, the young budding wildlife enthusiast felt a calling to embark on an adventure of his own.
A young Avanka, having witnessed the breathtaking beauty of Sri Lanka’s wildlife and landscapes, set out to capture and preserve the beauty that captivated him through the lens of a camera and share its wonder with the world. Today, as a dedicated wildlife photographer, Avanka continues to explore Sri Lanka’s natural treasures, capturing the beauty that once inspired him as a child.
His hobby, now turned passion in promoting the tropical island’s unique beauty has led him to participate in international wildlife photography competitions – but it’s not just the value of earning accolades. Participating in these competitions is a transformative journey of growth and discovery and an opportunity to narrate a story of what Sri Lanka has to offer as a small island in the Indian Ocean.
Having gained the opportunity to explore and admire the remarkable artistry of some of the world’s best wildlife photographers, these experiences offered him invaluable insights into how professionals view and interpret the intricate beauty of nature and wildlife. Competing alongside such exceptional talent helped Avanka refine his perspective, deepen his understanding, and sharpen his skills. Each award and honour stands as a testament to his evolution as a photographer, reflecting not only his talent but also his unwavering dedication to capturing the splendor of the natural world.
Among Avanka’s countless accolades, a few hold a particularly special place in his heart. Securing second place in the Black & White category at the prestigious World Nature Photography Awards was a moment of immense pride. Equally significant was winning the Wildlife in the Garden category in the International Garden Photographer of the Year competition. Winning first place in The Wild Lens Wildlife Photographer of the Year – Macro category is another unforgettable milestone in Avanka’s career.
For Avanka, being a wildlife photographer in Sri Lanka is a privilege. The island’s unparalleled biodiversity provides a dynamic canvas. Sri Lanka’s unique distribution of ecosystems, teeming with diverse flora and fauna, offers endless inspiration and opportunities to capture nature’s wonders.
One of Avanka’s greatest joys lies in photographing the island’s endemic species – remarkable creatures found nowhere else on Earth. The challenge and excitement of documenting their existence drive his passion. Beyond that, Sri Lanka’s compact geography allows photographers to encounter a staggering variety of wildlife within mere hours. From majestic elephants and the elusive leopard to even the mighty blue whale, the country’s rich biodiversity continuously shapes and elevates his work.
Photographing wildlife in Sri Lanka’s national parks and wilderness comes with its share of challenges, the most pressing of which, according to Avanka, is the lack of awareness among some visitors. As a wildlife photographer, he adheres to a strict code of discipline and ethics, ensuring his presence does not disturb the delicate ecosystems he seeks to capture.
But that cannot be said about all who visit these fragile ecosystems. Few and rare visitors share the same respect for nature, while the majority are often seen disrupting the environment and its inhabitants. This lack of understanding poses challenges not only to the preservation of these natural spaces but also to the work of photographers dedicated to showcasing their beauty responsibly.
Despite these obstacles, Avanka’s distinctive approach to photography sets his work apart. His goal is to illustrate the unparalleled beauty of the natural world through a fresh and unseen perspective. By capturing unique angles and moments, he invites people to experience nature in ways they may never have imagined, fostering a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s extraordinary flora and fauna.
It’s the art of immortalizing something that is seemingly fleeting, transforming the wild into art, and narrating stories that inspire and educate.
Every photograph he captures carries a deeper purpose – to raise awareness about the animal species that share our world and to highlight the urgent need for conservation. His work is a call to action, inviting audiences to appreciate the beauty of nature and understand the importance of protecting it for future generations.
Among his extensive portfolio, a few photographs hold particularly special memories. One such image is a striking shot of Lucas, Yala National Park’s infamous leopard. Captured in the soft, golden hues of evening light, this photograph embodies the majestic allure of Sri Lanka’s apex predator. It’s a moment that reflects both the rarity and the profound beauty of encountering such elusive creatures in their natural habitat.
Another cherished memory lies in a tender scene from Wilpattu National Park – a baby monkey peacefully nestled within its mother’s breast. This heart-warming image stands out for its raw simplicity and emotional depth, encapsulating the bond and nurturing nature of wildlife.
Through these moments frozen in time, Avanka hopes to ignite a sense of wonder and responsibility in his audience, encouraging them to cherish and protect the natural world as passionately as he does.
Having achieved significant milestones in his wildlife photography career, Avanka has ambitious plans for the future. One of his primary aspirations is to create an exhibition and a comprehensive photo journal dedicated to Sri Lanka’s endemic species. By showcasing the country’s unique biodiversity through his lens, he hopes to inspire a deeper appreciation for these remarkable creatures and draw attention to their ecological importance.
Avanka’s dedication to conservation goes beyond his photography. As a co-creator of EcoFocus Sri Lanka, a platform aimed at raising awareness about wildlife and the environment in Sri Lanka, he actively advocates for conservation and community education. Through EcoFocus Sri Lanka, he seeks to merge his photographic expertise with the mission of spreading knowledge, promoting sustainable practices, and nurturing a culture of respect for nature. His efforts aim to inspire both local and international communities to protect and preserve the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka for future generations.
For aspiring wildlife photographers in Sri Lanka and beyond, Avanka offers simple yet powerful advice, “Respect nature above all else. Approach wildlife photography with patience, discipline, and a deep understanding of the natural world. It’s not just about capturing an image, it’s about telling a story and contributing to the preservation of what you capture.” He encourages young photographers to continually learn, observe, and let their passion for nature guide them in creating meaningful and impactful work.
Through his lens and initiatives, Avanka continues to weave a compelling narrative of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders, inspiring others to not only appreciate the beauty of the wild but to become active stewards of its preservation for generations to come.
