Aditya 'Dicky' Singh

Aditya “Dicky” Singh (India) was one of India’s most respected wildlife photographers, as well as a passionate conservationist, wildlife enthusiast, traveler and lodge owner. On his website, he once described himself with characteristic humor: “Lodge owner, photographer, wildlife enthusiast, conservationist, traveler or just plain confused… that’s for you to decide.”

Originally trained as an engineer, Dicky soon realized that his true calling lay in protecting the environment, natural habitats and wildlife. His journey into photography began in 1999, when he was invited to assist with a BBC documentary about Ranthambore National Park. From there, photography became an inseparable part of his lifelong commitment to documenting and conserving the natural world.

Dicky’s timeless wildlife photographs were published in numerous magazines and earned international recognition, including the Carl Zeiss Award for Conservation and the Sanctuary Wildlife Photographer of the Year award. He was also an author, educator and generous advocate for wildlife, using his images and knowledge to inspire a deeper understanding of the animals and landscapes he cared for so deeply.

Perhaps one of his greatest legacies began away from the camera. Together with his wife, Poonam, Dicky purchased approximately 35 acres of land bordering Ranthambore National Park and allowed it to return to its natural state. Over time, the land became a thriving refuge for wildlife and a powerful example of what patient, committed conservation can achieve.

Aditya “Dicky” Singh passed away on September 6, 2023, leaving behind an extraordinary body of photography and a living conservation legacy that continues to inspire.

Dicky joined us on The Camera Café Show only three weeks before his unexpected passing. Sadly, he never had the opportunity to hear the finished episode, but we hope he would have been happy with the conversation and with the way it celebrates his photography, his humor and his lifelong dedication to wildlife and conservation. We remain deeply grateful to have shared that time with him and to help preserve a small part of his remarkable story.