In this article, Ariane shares how photography helped her navigate personal challenges, connect authentically with people and animals, and develop a philosophy rooted in empathy and artistic freedom. Readers will also discover her ethical approach to wildlife photography and her trusted equipment for both camouflage techniques and cameras.
Muhammad Aristianto
@badakkekar
Winner Nomadict's editing contest Vol. 3
My name is Muhammad Aristianto, although my friends call me Tian or Badakkekar quite often. I am from a small village named Bawang which is located in Central Java, Indonesia.
Bawang is one of the most remote villages in Central Java – considered to be the heart of the Javanese culture. Borobudur, the 9th-century world’s largest Buddhist temple is located in Central Java for instance.
"We are also proud of our natural setting, having a beautiful range of mountains and densely forested areas."
I guess that the landscapes that have surrounded me since my childhood have had a significant influence in my interests. For me, climbing the mountain range and the Gunung Prau is part of my daily life. So, I guess it’s quite normal that I love nature? As a result, in 2014 I made my longest trip. I visited Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, a place I want to visit again soon and which has inspired me to keep traveling!
Yet, it was not until 2016 when I started to upload photos to social media. So, I discovered photography not that long ago. Actually, if I began to take photographs it was because of all the amazing photos that all of you guys shared on Instagram. In addition, being surrounded by such a unique landscape inspired me to grab a camera and start documenting my trips.
When traveling, I love finding obstacles since they represent puzzles to me. If I am able to solve them, I feel energized – specially if afterwards I can capture that photo I was looking for.
"So, photography is about the journey and the struggle to capture what you envisioned."
Getting back home with that one image and being able to express what I felt at that particular moment with a broader community seems almost magical to me. I hope I can keep sharing my thoughts, ideas and emotions through my edits and photographs for many more years to come!
"Thanks to all the people who voted for me by the way! This means the world to me!"
Congratulations @badakkekar, you won $150 in cash!
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Be inspired by:
Kyle van Bavel (@kylevanbavel): Photographer based in the Netherlands
Kyle van Bavel is a macro photographer with a distinctive, dreamy style that transforms the unseen details of nature into magical worlds. In this article, he shares how his unique vision, shaped by a journey of self-learning and overcoming dyslexia, has become his greatest creative strength.
Jorge Chagas (@jorgemchagas): Photographer based in Portugal
In this article, Jorge reflects on how Lisbon’s unique light and atmosphere shape his creative process, from waiting for the perfect beam of sunlight to editing with a cinematic eye. Through personal stories and practical advice, Jorge invites us to see street photography not just as a technique, but as a deeply personal dialogue with place and moment.
Lee Cooper (@leecooperphotography): Photographer based in the UK
Drawn to the moody atmosphere of coastal and woodland landscapes, Lee found his voice through slow, intentional exploration of light, color, and composition. In this article, he shares how nature, patience, and personal connection have shaped his unique photographic style.
Ben Yavar (@ben.freediver): Underwater photographer based in the Philippines
Ben Yavar is an award-winning freediving instructor and underwater photographer whose work captures the breathtaking beauty of marine life. In this article, he shares insights into the delicate balance between freediving and photography, offering a glimpse into his techniques, philosophy, and the profound connection he feels with the underwater world.
