Finding a true passion is not easy. When it comes to the journey in search for one, nobody understands it better than photography hobbyist Daryl Yeo. Since 2006, Daryl has been exploring digital photography, and has used all these years to experiment photography’s various genres, and thence discovered his one true love – wildlife photography. We catch up with him to find out more about his exciting journey and plans for the future. (Report by Isaiah Tan)

Q1: You’re a full-time IT Manager. How do you balance your job and your hobby, and how much time does it take to plan one of your photographic journeys?

Daryl Yeo (D): As much as I love to shoot at every opportunity, work takes priority since I need income to support my hobby. In Singapore, I may shoot during early weekend mornings. For my photographic trips, I may plan as far ahead as a year, or sometimes impromptu, since I also travel alone.

Q2: How often do you go on one of your wildlife photographic expeditions?

D: Generally I have one-three trips overseas a year, depending on location and duration. My trips can last from three days to two weeks.

Q3: Where are you planning to go to next, and why?

D: I have a long wish list, in the hopes of capturing unique images of wildlife. On my priority list are the Arctic and Antarctic. Additionally, Africa is an addiction and it will be my mainstay.

Q4: Have you thought about becoming a full-time photographer? If not, why?

D: At my age, I think I may be over-the-hill to make a career change. I respect full-time photographers. The industry is highly competitive; it is not easy to make a living out of photography, more so when it comes to wildlife, which is why there is only a handful of photographers who dedicate solely to the aforementioned genre.

Q5: Have you considered organising wildlife photographic group expeditions?

D: I’ve led two small group expeditions overseas, which consisted mainly of my friends. I’ve also joined other group expeditions, as well as those overseas.

Q6: Have you ever thought of teaching others about wildlife photography?

D: There are not many instructional courses on wildlife photography locally, so this is an area I can contribute. Apart from the basics, I would emphasise on helping individuals to develop a personal style, based on their preferences and strengths. Photography as a form of art is a journey, it needs time and effort to develop and mature.

Q7: What advice would you give someone who’s just starting out on wildlife photography?

D: I would encourage them to practise, practise and practise. Start with the zoo, bird park and other local parks. Mistakes and lessons can be learnt at a low cost here, so you’ll be more prepared for the overseas trip. Next, be curious about wildlife. Often, the more we understand and connect with the subject, the more successful we are at capturing good images. All budding wildlife photographers should act responsibly – the animals’ welfare takes priority over the photographer’s desire to capture an image.