Prasenjeet Yadav’s Iconic Shot of a Black Tiger

Prasenjeet Yadav, an Indian photographer and National Geographic Explorer, has risen to international prominence with his stunning picture of a rare black tiger, which has been selected as the cover image for National Geographic magazine’s upcoming October 2025 edition. This achievement is not just a personal triumph for Yadav, but a significant moment that brings global attention to India’s unique biodiversity and the dedicated conservation efforts within the country.

A Molecular Biologist Turned Visual Storyteller

Yadav’s journey into the world of photography is as fascinating as the subjects he captures. Originally trained as a molecular biologist, he holds a master’s degree in the field and spent several years conducting research at the National Centre for Biological Sciences in Bangalore. However, his academic career led him to a profound realization: a significant communication gap existed between the scientific community and the general public. He recognized that his true calling was to bridge this divide through the power of visual storytelling.

Combining his scientific background with his innate passion for nature, Yadav has carved a unique niche for himself. He focuses on popularizing ecological and conservation sciences through his photographs, choosing subjects, landscapes, and species that are often overlooked. His work is a collaborative effort, involving researchers, policymakers, and conservationists to ensure his stories are both engaging and scientifically accurate. He is also the founder of “Shoot for Science,” an initiative aimed at teaching science communication skills to fellow scientists.

The Quest for the Black Tiger

The photograph of the black tiger is a testament to Yadav’s patience, dedication, and deep understanding of wildlife. The rare big cats, known as pseudo-melanistic tigers, are found almost exclusively in the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha, India. Their striking appearance is the result of a rare genetic mutation that causes their dark stripes to become unusually thick and close together, creating an almost completely black coat.

Capturing this elusive creature was a monumental task. Yadav, who has previously photographed challenging subjects like snow leopards in the Himalayas, spent over three months tracking and observing the black tiger in Similipal’s dense forests. The animal, identified as T12, was notoriously shy and difficult to approach. Yadav’s success was a result of his patient observation, learning the tiger’s movement patterns and behavior until he could capture the perfect, history-making shot.

A Moment of National Pride

Yadav’s photograph gracing the cover of National Geographic places him in a select group of Indian photographers who have achieved this prestigious honor. The image not only highlights the mysterious beauty of the black tiger but also draws the world’s attention to the crucial conservation work being done in India. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving fragile ecosystems and the dedicated efforts of the Odisha Forest Department and other conservationists who work tirelessly to protect these majestic animals.

The story behind the image, as noted by National Geographic’s editor-in-chief, is a powerful one of conservation success that also underscores the challenges of preserving genetic diversity in a limited habitat. It serves as a call to action, reminding us that saving a species is just the first step; the long-term goal is to ensure they have the opportunity to thrive. For Prasenjeet Yadav, this recognition is an honor that he hopes will continue to inspire a new generation to document and protect India’s extraordinary natural heritage.