Photojournalism nominee

In western Mongolia, Kazakh eagle hunters, or Burkitshi, train golden eagles from a young age to hunt foxes, hares, and wolves, a practice vital for survival in the region's harsh winters. Passed down for centuries, this ancient tradition symbolizes resilience and the deep bond between hunter and eagle.

This series captures the extraordinary skill of eagle hunters as they ride at high speed, their golden eagles perched confidently on their arms. Balancing the eagle's weight while maintaining control of the horse demands exceptional horsemanship, strength, and focus. Riders expertly navigate the rugged terrain, making split-second decisions to adjust speed and direction, all while ensuring their eagle remains secure. This intricate dance between horse and hunter showcases their bond and the years of training required to master such a challenging feat. The combination of speed, precision, and trust highlights the remarkable talent of these hunters.

During Soviet repression, many eagle hunters fled Kazakhstan and other Soviet-ruled countries, seeking refuge in Mongolia to preserve their traditions. This migration further underscores the endurance of their culture, which continues to thrive in the face of adversity.

Self-taught photographer and traveler, Thibault Gerbaldi documents people and places with a clear, dignified eye. His work has earned top honors, including first place at the Siena Awards 2025, the International Photography Awards 2025, and the International Travel Photo Awards.

In 2024, he received the Rising Talent Award from Travel Photographer of the Year, the world’s most prestigious travel photography competition. That same year, he was named one of AAP’s Emerging Talents to Watch.
In 2025, three of his photographs were selected for Around the World with the Leica, a major exhibition held at the Leica headquarters in Wetzlar to celebrate the brand’s 100th anniversary. Chosen from over one million images submitted by more than 65,000 photographers worldwide, this recognition placed his work at the heart of Leica’s global centennial celebration.
His images have been published in Leica Fotografie International, All About Photo, Digital Camera, and various specialized media. His work travels the world—from Miami to Paris, Arles, Venice, Marrakech, Los Angeles and Rome.
Beyond photography, Thibault is committed to supporting humanitarian causes through his work. A board member of The Forgotten International since 2019, he donates a portion of his book and print sales to fund solidarity projects.