photography adventure Western Mongolia

An Overview

Jointly hosted by adventurer Adrian Bottomley, and photographer Anthony Lau, this is an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join a unique photographic expedition to explore one of the last untouched frontiers of Asia; the Altai Mountains of Western Mongolia. And there, against an epic backdrop of spectacular snowy peaks, immerse ourselves with two of the region's most fascinating nomadic families; respectively renowned for their time-honoured traditions of horsemanship and eagle hunting.

During the expedition, our small team will first embed with renowned horse breeder Auez and his family, as they leave their winter dwellings, and embark on their annual 4 day migration, to journey on horseback with their livestock, across frozen rivers and snowy passes, before arriving at their spring pastures.

Exclusive access to Auez and his family, is only made possible by a longstanding relationship that began with the location scouting for the acclaimed (but yet to be officially released) short film - Boy Nomad. This experience will also be invaluable in managing the logistics for the expedition, as we follow the family (on foot, horseback and by vehicle) for the very first time with a photographic group.

After completing the winter migration with Auez, we will drive across the snowy steppe to join a second family, this time of eagle hunters, at their beautiful spring camp. Here, we will authentically re-create the ancient tradition of the 'Sayat', when cross-generational groups of Kazakh nomads historically headed into the mountains on winter excursions, both in pursuit of prey, and to pass down the secretive training and hunting techniques to their sons (and increasingly these days, daughters).

As much as possible, our team will integrate fully with both families (whom we know very well) to create an intimate communal atmosphere and, while cognizant of the quest for the perfect 'shot', also remain sensitive to the spontaneous and authentic nature of both the winter migration, and the 'Sayat'. However, during the latter in particular, we will have the opportunity to track the hunters as they position themselves on spectacular vantage points from which to flush out foxes (and rabbits) and launch their eagles.

At all of the main locations, both alongside the familys' camps, and at locations along the migration, we will set up private gers for sleeping, dining, and for use as a photographic workshop. Typically, each warm ger can comfortably sleep three or four people each. We will also provide clean, private facilities for both showering and using the toilet. At all times, we will also have a local guide, drivers and vehicles, a camp assistant, and a cook to prepare our meals.