honorable mention
thibault gerbaldi united states
Photo © thibault gerbaldi
title
A Lifelong Bond
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entry description
This series captures the profound connection between eagle hunters and their majestic birds in the remote region of Bayan-Ölgii, where Kazakh traditions have endured through time and adversity. Each hunter raises and trains their eagle from a young age, forging a bond rooted in mutual respect and loyalty—a testament to the deep relationship between humans and nature in Kazakh culture. The portraits were taken in the Ger of Jenisbek, surrounded by the furs of animals hunted by his eagle, echoing the timeless scenes of 17th-century Dutch masters that have always inspired me. These images reflect not just a tradition, but a way of life passed down through generations, preserved in the vast landscapes of the Altai Mountains, where an estimated 250 eagle hunters continue to practice this ancient art.about the photographer
Thibault Gerbaldi is a self-taught Leica photographer and passionate traveler, known for capturing authentic, emotional stories from some of the world’s most remote and diverse regions. His award-winning work spans cultures and landscapes as varied as Greenland to India, blending documentary, travel, and portrait photography. Thibault has self-published seven photography books and earned international recognition, including 1st place at the Siena Awards 2025, the International Photo Awards 2025 and the Rising Talent Award from Travel Photographer of the Year in 2024. His work has been exhibited globally and featured in Leica Fotografie International, LENS Magazine, and more. As a board member of The Forgotten International, he supports humanitarian projects through his art.back to gallery
