Lens on Mongolia

July 19, 2026

Participants will begin with an introduction to Mongolian traditional culture through immersive experiences. They will taste authentic cuisine, explore the Chinggis Khaan Museum, and take first steps in learning the Mongolian language. This foundation fosters a deeper connection with Mongolia’s history and way of life. At the same time, we will build technical photography skills by learning camera functions such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Through guided practice in varied lighting, participants will see how these settings shape light, motion, and depth. By the end, they will balance these elements to capture compelling images rooted in cultural storytelling.

July 20, 2026

We will begin the day at Gandan Monastery, the country’s most prominent Buddhist center. Here we will experience the calm rhythm of chanting monks, the scent of incense, and the atmosphere of deep devotion. The monastery’s striking architecture, with its detailed carvings and vivid colors, reveals centuries of spiritual artistry and craftsmanship. As we explore its halls and temple grounds, we will gain insight into Mongolia’s living religious traditions. In the evening, we will travel to Hustai National Park, where we will settle in for the remainder of the course and begin the next phase of our journey.

July 21, 2026

We will begin before sunrise in Hustai National Park for our first wildlife photography session. Early light offers ideal conditions to photograph the rare Przewalski’s horse and marmots while park biologists share insights into their behavior and conservation, enriching our storytelling. Later, we will spend time with local herder families, documenting morning chores, livestock care, and traditional food preparation. This hands-on experience will help you capture authentic movement and daily life while practicing Mongolian through real interactions. By day’s end, you will blend technical skill and cultural understanding to create meaningful visual narratives of Mongolia’s wildlife and people.

July 22, 2026

We will begin at sunrise, heading into the park to photograph red deer and Mongolian gazelles. This season follows their birthing period, offering a rare chance to observe small groups in their natural habitat. If we do not find them immediately, we will wait quietly near rangelands or water sources, practicing patience, observation, and timing in wildlife photography. Later, we will experience either a Naadam festival or a nomadic lifestyle event, engaging with local people, practicing Mongolian, and photographing traditional games, horse racing, and community gatherings. This lively setting is ideal for developing documentary style skills and capturing natural moments.

July 23, 2026 

We will leave Hustai National Park for a scenic drive to Khugnu Tarna National Park, known for its mix of mountains, grasslands, and sand dunes. At the Elsen Tasarkhai dunes, participants may hike or join a camel ride across the rolling sands. Later, we will visit Erdene Monk’s Monastery and hike to Uvgun Monk’s Monastery, both rich in spiritual heritage. Along the way, we can speak with monks and visitors to learn about their traditions. Our photography focus will be on capturing daily rhythms, reflective moments, and subtle details while practicing respectful composition, timing, and sensitivity in sacred spaces.

July 24, 2026 

We will begin before sunrise, heading into the mountain steppe to photograph gray wolves and argali sheep, using early light to capture these elusive animals in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, we will visit a Mongolian woman demonstrating the traditional making of a deel, the national garment. This hands-on cultural experience offers opportunities to photograph intricate craftwork, explore fabric textures and colors, and practice storytelling through everyday life. By blending technical photography and editing skills with immersive fieldwork, you will deepen your understanding of both the creative and cultural dimensions of visual storytelling.

July 25, 2026

On the final day, we return to Ulaanbaatar for a focused session on post-production and presentation. We will edit and curate your strongest images, refining compositions and applying color corrections to enhance mood and consistency. Next, we will prepare files for digital sharing, exploring how presentation shapes audience experience. The day will conclude with a mini-exhibit and peer feedback session, celebrating your work from the week. By the end, you will have a polished short portfolio or narrative series that reflects your growth as a photographer and the unique story of your time in Mongolia.