India, Aug. 25 -- What does it really take to photograph animals in their natural habitat? From early mornings in dense forests to long stretches of waiting for a glimpse of movement, the process is rarely as simple as the final image makes it look. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, passionate wildlife photographer Hardik Shelat shares insights into his process, memorable experiences, and the realities of photographing the wild. (Also read: Inspired by Sachin Tendulkar's Kaziranga National Park safari with Anjali, Sara? Here's how to plan your own trip )

Actually, since my childhood, I was frequently busy exploring different gardens and surroundings near my hometown in Gujarat. So, you can say that I had an interest in nature from a you...