Mongolians have encountered many filmmakers and photographers and are savvy to the concept that some photographs are designed to produce products that yield profits or publications. Talk to them about what you want to achieve. Be prepared to compromise.

Mongol Kazakh and eagle hunter Sailaukhan – as captured by our guest – photographer Sam Reinders

• Slow Down

Take time to get to know your subject. Have a conversation,  get a feel for the space around you. If possible, don’t even pick up your camera when you first meet or enter their home. Instead, relax, drink the tea that’s offered to you (depending on the situation) – actually, drink two bowls (even if the light is perfect). Once your subject feels comfortable with you, they’ll share parts of themselves with you and your camera, which make for much more rich and honest portraits.

• Always Ask Permission 

Such a simple rule but so important. As a photographer, the responsibility of asking for permission before you take a photograph rests solely on you. It is as simple as having the camera in your hand and gesturing to someone as if seeking their approval.  If they say no, shake their head or put their hand up in front of their face as a sign then just accept that they are not comfortable with having their photo taken.

As already mentioned, if you slow down and take the time you can be more creative in your thinking and use your camera as an ice-breaker. Take a picture of a different view or aspect and take time to show the photo to the person you would like to capture (another option is to do the same with a mini Bluetooth printer or a Polaroid camera). You may find that photography instantly becomes more fun and less intimidating. Although more rural Mongolians have access to a camera through their phones, often they don’t actually have physical photos.

In addition, part of Mongolian culture is to look as good as you can according to your circumstances. Often female Mongolian herders or women working in local markets will be wearing ‘work clothes’ and want to change or ‘freshen’ up before having their photo taken. Yes, it changes your composition but learn to be flexible.

And consider the fact that we have a responsibility towards children; especially in keeping them safe. This involves putting children first and treating them as you would your own.⠀⠀⠀⠀

•  Respect the rights of children

Children have the right to privacy. Permission should always be sought from the subjects of photographs if they are identifiable, and in the case of children, permission should be sought from their parents. And, be aware of how you share any images of children, including on social media. Where possible, keep images of children in your private collection. Do not film children, cuddle or pose with children or use them as props in photos.

(Learn more about our Child Protection Policy here – https://www.eternal-landscapes.co.uk/our-child-protection-policy/)

• Ditch The Stereotype

Mongolia is so much more than nomads, Kazakh eagle hunters, the Tsaatan reindeer herders, and the ger districts of Ulaanbaatar. Mongolians are not a museum exhibit – it’s the 21st Century. Ditch the images that simply perpetuate the stereotypes of Mongolia and aim for a more honest portrayal of real life.

Image by our guest – photographer Nick Rains

• The Small Details

‘… payment can cause all kinds of issues – from the faking of culture (costumes, ceremonies) to gain cash, to encouraging begging. And never pay children – even with sweets or toys. As well as discouraging them from attending school, it is just ethically wrong.’

• When The Tables Are Turned 

Dakhar of Tsambagarav captured by our guest Massimo Rumi

We’re not a specialist photography company but we do provide the logistics for and host responsible photography trips in Mongolia each year for a range of photographers and photography companies who benefit from the long-term community partnerships we have created countrywide. If you would like to learn more about the Mongolia trips and experiences we offer, please take a look.