Dallas Commercial Real Estate Pro Mital Patel Debuts His Majestic Wildlife Photography

Mital Patel lives by a simple philosophy: If an opportunity presents itself, take it. As managing partner of NewcrestImage, a Dallas-based commercial real estate investment firm, that mindset drives the growth of his company’s $2.7 billion hospitality portfolio. But Patel’s vision extends well beyond the boardroom. He’s also an internationally recognized wildlife photographer, using his camera to spotlight — and help protect — Africa’s most endangered species.

This Friday, a curated collection of his fine art photography debuts at the Design District’s Christopher Martin Gallery. Signature pieces include intimate portraits of the world’s last two northern white rhinos and their caregivers. All sales will benefit the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a 90,000-acre wildlife reserve in Kenya.

We asked Patel what it takes to capture the perfect wildlife image. Patience, he said, is first and foremost. Equally important: instinct and a willingness to take risks.

The rhinoceros shoot required all three. “I was lying on the ground, two to three feet away. My arms were getting tired, so I moved just a bit to relieve the pressure. The rhinos charged — and I ran.” Luckily, the animals went one way, Patel the other.

His goal, always, is to capture the connection between wildlife and human life. A gallery setting enhances the experience. “Viewers are able to focus on the details — the expression in the eyes, the texture of the fur,” he said.

“You want your audience to feel something, to be emotionally engaged.”

Patel was only 12 years old when his father gave him his first camera. “I started by documenting our family trips, and as we explored different countries, my love for both adventure and photography grew.”

Travel connects Patel’s passion with his profession. NewcrestImage has deep roots in the hospitality industry — its real estate portfolio includes 277 hotel transactions valued at $2.7 billion.

Among the firm’s most recent acquisition is The Beeman Hotel, located just east of North Central Expressway adjacent to Southern Methodist University. Plans are underway to rebrand the property as The Mockingbird.

“We’ve really done our research,” said Patel. “Not just of the street itself, but the story of Mockingbird Lane, one of the most important streets in Dallas.”

Patel has also brought his love of photography home — literally. The formal dining room in his North Dallas residence, which sat empty for a number of years, now serves as gallery.

Other works explore architecture, nature, and abstraction.  “I want to capture beauty in all its forms, whether natural or manmade,” he explained.  

Patel’s pursuit of beauty is matched by his commitment to giving back. His support of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy reflects a broader effort to align his photography with organizations dedicated to conservation, advocacy, and social impact.

Special guest Justin Heath, CEO of the conservancy, will join Patel at this week’s event. The evening also marks the debut of Tembo, a fusion of wearable art and wildlife photography, featuring the release of a special edition rhino cap supporting Ol Pejeta’s mission.

RSVP here to meet Mital Patel and Justin Heath on Friday, May 30, 6 to 9 p.m., at the Christopher Martin Gallery, 1533 Dragon St. in Dallas.