Nature and wildlife photo exhibition by The Jeffreys this weekend

The Jeffrey family is a unique outfit that shares a single passion, photography. Specifically, wildlife and nature photography.

What started out and still remains a hobby for the three, namely Reyaz and Sabita Jeffrey and their son, Zal Jeffrey. In what is perhaps Sri Lanka’s first family trio consisting of mother, father and son photography exhibition, they have decided to showcase their collection of nature and wildlife photographs on 30 and 31 January at the Harold Peiris Gallery (Lionel Wendt). 

“When others are holidaying on a beach or up in the hills, we are in Yala or Wilpattu, looking for the elusive Leopard, our favorite” says Reyaz. I was always fascinated with the camera, but invested in a DSLR only around seven years ago, that was when we could really afford one. Ever since, we have upgraded and built up our portfolio of equipment, which still largely remains amateur. 

“Zal’s first foray in to the wild was when he was just one year old, in Bundala. We got chased by an elephant on that visit and he didn’t even cry,” says Sabi. “He took to the camera very well and has a different photography style than the dad and will wait for the perfect shot with patience.”

Whilst Reyaz and Zal are the photographers, the trio aren’t complete without the Mother, Sabi who ensures that the Jeffreys have adequate food and that all travel logistics are arranged. Sabi is also an avid bird spotter and has spotted animals and birds many a time. 

The exhibition covers wildlife captured in exclusively in Sri Lanka and includes the leopard, elephants and a collection birds from all parts of the island, along with some scenery.  The main intention of the exhibition is showcase the beauty and splendour of Sri Lanka and develop appreciation for local wildlife. 

“We are highly encouraged by the comments and encouragement on Facebook, where we share most of our photos. We thought it would be great for us to showcase the best of the lot,” added Reyaz. 

The exhibition opened on 29 January, Friday at 6 p.m. at the Harold Peiris Gallery, the Lionel Wendt and runs through the weekend till 31 January from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entrance is free. 

Reyaz was always fascinated by photography. His passion for outdoors and wildlife came to the fore during a four year stint in the deep Sri Lankan south, whilst working at Seylan Bank. Travelling and especially being in the midst of nature is Reyaz’s relaxation and unwinding. Reyaz considers himself to be lucky that his job takes him around the country and thus giving him the opportunity to both explore and share the beauty of Sri Lanka with friends and family. Reyaz is a Marketer by profession and is currently employed at Amana Takaful Life. 

Sabi is the quiet explorer and the power behind the team (the nucleus). She has always been an essential part of the Jeffrey family explorations. Be it a trip to a jungle or a trek in search of an old temple, she›s always game. Ensuring that all arrangements have been sorted, that the two boys have their extra battery or memory card and making sure they have food and drink is something she does with immense happiness. She›s also an excellent spotter for birds and animals while on drives. Sabi is a banker by profession and until recently worked at NDB Bank as the head of its flagship branch at Dharmapala Mawatha. 

Zal›s first foray in to the wild was when he was just one year old. Over the years, he has grown up with nature and in great awe and appreciation for wildlife and nature. Zal sports a different photography style from Jeffrey Senior and will wait for that perfect shot with patience. Only thing Zal loves more than being in the wild, is sleeping. Zal is currently reading for his Degree at Macquarie University in Sydney.