“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” ~ Albert Einstein
In this special feature of A Visual Symphony, we speak with nature and landscape photographer Jhuma Datta, whose lens captures not just scenery, but emotion, energy, and the silent splendor of the natural world. A long exposure photography expert and avid traveller since 2008, Jhuma’s artistic journey has taken her across lush forests, surreal terrains, and breathtaking coastlines, clicking the many moods and faces of Mother Nature.
Her work is more than visual, it’s a poetic expression shaped by her personal resilience, artistic vision, and an unwavering love for nature. Accredited by leading platforms including National Geographic Traveller and India Today, Jhuma is also a cancer survivor, a social worker, and a mentor, proving that strength and sensitivity can coexist. Through her soulful compositions, she offers us not just photographs, but moments of pause, reflection, and reconnection.
Interview with Jhuma Datta
Question: What initially drew you to nature and landscape photography?
Jhuma Datta: I’ve always been mesmerized by the ever-changing moods of nature, from the golden light of dawn to the vibrant colors of dusk. That constant transformation inspired me to start capturing those fleeting moments through my lens. Over time, it became more than a passion, it became a way of seeing and experiencing the world.
Question: Your photographs evoke deep emotion and wonder. How do you approach capturing such moments?
Jhuma Datta: My approach is a blend of technical precision and creative vision. I don’t just focus on the visual aspects, I try to convey what it feels like to stand in the middle of a lush forest or on a rugged mountain slope. It’s about storytelling through composition, color, and light. I want viewers to feel immersed in the scene.
Question: Are there certain landscapes or elements in nature that particularly fascinate you?
Jhuma Datta: Absolutely. Towering peaks, rugged terrain, endless dunes, surreal rock formations, these kinds of landscapes truly captivate me. They hold a raw energy and majesty that I find both humbling and inspiring. Each terrain tells its own story and offers a different emotional tone.
Question: How do you view the role of photography in today’s world, especially when it comes to nature?
Jhuma Datta: Nature photography is a powerful tool. It allows us to document not just beauty but fragility. Through our lenses, we can inspire people to appreciate the natural world and also remind them of the urgent need to protect it. Every image is an invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what really matters.
Question: What message do you hope to leave with those who view your work?
Jhuma Datta: I hope my work encourages people to cherish and protect our planet. Nature is not just a backdrop; it’s our greatest treasure. By sharing its beauty through my photographs, I aim to spark a deeper appreciation and awareness of what we stand to lose if we don’t take care of it.
Through her striking visuals and poetic perspective, Jhuma Datta invites us to see nature not as something distant, but as something intimate and essential. Her journey, from an artist with a paintbrush to a photographer with a cause, is a testament to passion, perseverance, and purpose. Whether she’s training budding photographers or showcasing her art in Tokyo, Jhuma remains grounded in the belief that art can awaken empathy and spark change. In every frame, she captures not just a view, but a voice. A voice that gently reminds us: the Earth speaks. We must listen.
