Travel nominee

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.

Self-taught photographer and passionate traveler, Thibault Gerbaldi roams the world to capture visual stories infused with emotion and authenticity.

His work has been recognized in prestigious international competitions, earning first place at the International Travel Photo Awards, second place at the PX3 (Prix de la Photographie de Paris), the Monovision Awards, and the Fine Art Photography Awards. In 2024, he received the Rising Talent Award from Travel Photographer of the Year, the world’s most prestigious travel photography competition.

His images have been published in Leica Fotografie International, All About Photo, LENS Magazine, and various specialized media. Much like Thibault himself, his work travels the world—from Miami to Paris, Venice, Los Angeles, and Rome. In 2024, his growing recognition earned him a spot among AAP’s Emerging Talents to Watch.

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 supporting marginalized communities.