About Me

DHRUV AZAD

Hello!

I’m Dhruv, a Sophomore at Johns Hopkins University (JHU), immersing myself in what I love most—Physics. Alongside Physics, I’m pursuing a double major in Applied Mathematics and Statistics (AMS). Beyond academics, my interests span across chess, tennis, table tennis, and badminton. I’ve been immersed in chess since the age of 5, earning accolades at the Individual, State, and National level. I continue my chess journey at Hopkins, actively participating in the chess club.

Cycling is another cherished activity of mine, offering me the freedom to explore Delhi, especially the iconic “Lutyens’ Delhi,” alongside my parents.

Photography is a passion close to my heart, sparked when my father gifted me a basic point & shoot camera during our 2013 trip to Australia. From capturing supercars to attractions, my love for photography blossomed. The magic intensified when my uncle gifted me a DSLR camera, allowing me to capture moments across landscapes, water bodies, skyscrapers, historical monuments, and city landmarks. However, wildlife photography holds a special allure due to the challenges nature presents. Self-taught, I started with capturing birds in my neighborhood, ventured to Jim Corbett National Park for jungle safari photos, and even witnessed and photographed a thrilling elephant mock charge.

Before my Grade 12 session, I visited Keoladeo National Park, witnessing thousands of migratory and rare birds. Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan marked a special moment as I saw my first tiger in 2022 after multiple safaris across different national parks in India and I was much enamored by Tigress Ridhi’s three cubs playful antics during my recent trip in 2025. Seychelles offered unique experiences, from trekking the Copolia Trail for pitcher plant close-ups to searching for the elusive black parrot on Praslin Island.

In January 2023, I embarked on an anticipated trip to Gir National Park, Gujarat, capturing moments of the majestic Asiatic Lion and its pride. A return to Gir in January 2024 resulted in numerous safari sightings and over 5000 photos to sort through, each capturing unique moments.

Adding to the excitement, I achieved a position in the Ministry of Environment Forest & Climate Change – wildlife photography competition and have participated in various competitions at School, National, and International level. I am part of the core team that founded the Photography Club at Johns Hopkins University (JHU) in 2023 and am currently managing the events of the Club as its ‘Event Chair’. This short but thrilling journey has transformed me from a photographer to an ‘Amateur Photographer,’ and I’m more passionate than ever to capture many more moments in the future.

Here’s sharing my journey so far, hoping you enjoy the evolution from just a photographer to an ‘Amateur Photographer’!