A road trip for photographers, designed by a photographer

If you have gone through the presentation of the Qinghai region, you will understand that discovering such a vast area cannot be done in just a few days, nor without covering several thousand kilometers.

The idea of this journey is therefore to travel from towns to villages in order to discover the richness and diversity of the landscapes, but also to let ourselves be carried away by the opportunities that arise along the way. The stages usually involve relatively few kilometers (a maximum of 300 km), but it can take the whole day to cover them: because we will have stopped countless times to photograph a sublime landscape or wild animals, because we will have been invited to have tea by nomads met by chance, because we came across a festival or a horse race, or because we picked up an old lady hitchhiking who will ask us to take a detour… Believe me, from experience, there is not a single day without multiple surprises!

It is in the name of this freedom and spontaneity that this journey can only be done with a very small group. Beyond 4 people (including myself and Tsengon — our driver), we will no longer be so easily welcomed by the locals. They might not have enough space or might feel intimidated, and we would tend to stay more among ourselves and be less open…

The only guiding principles: respect and curiosity

Qinghai is one of the least developed regions of China and also the most isolated. Not because the people are withdrawn, far from it. But simply because the altitude (an average of 4,200 meters) and the reputation of a wild land still frighten tourists. This is both a tremendous opportunity for preserving Tibetan identity and a source of its vulnerability. That is why I want to be accompanied by travelers who can blend into the culture, respect customs, and be open and eager for encounters. I wish to both introduce this corner of the Roof of the World and, at the same time, not contribute to the development of tourism that would diminish its authenticity.

From a photographic point of view, it is pure joy! The landscapes are breathtaking of course, but above all, people show no mistrust towards photographers. On the contrary! And if one is Western, they will give their brightest smiles — men and women, children, young and old… Only monks can sometimes be more reserved, and even then, it depends on the place and circumstances.

But I guarantee you: this is one of the rare places in the world where humanist and spontaneous photography remains possible, with no other limits than those essential ones of respect and kindness.

Team spirit and friendship

Traveling in a group of three or four means creating a group dynamic where bonds of friendship and trust naturally develop.

All journeys are developed together during preparatory meetings. This is why you will not find any pre-made itineraries here. They are created according to your interests and expectations. My role is to advise you thanks to my knowledge of the land and the people, to organize the stages and all the practical aspects of the trip. I can also support you in your photographic approach if you wish, help you develop a photo series during our journey, and provide guidance on photographic techniques…

But I am neither an organizer in the strict sense, nor—above all—an authoritarian expedition leader. I am first and foremost a passionate photographer, eager to share a fascinating land with other curious minds, in a spirit of exchange.

In this intimate context, each participant plays a role and takes part in daily decisions: stopping for lunch with locals or continuing the road, adjusting the route depending on the atmosphere or opportunities… Everyone’s involvement is valuable.

The same goes for Tsengon, whom I reluctantly call our driver — a rather limiting word!
Tsengon is a young Tibetan whose parents are my friends, and I trust him completely. He is much more than an excellent driver: he is a man of the land, a shepherd most of the year, a keen expert of nature and trails — even those I would never have dared to take without him. Thanks to his local knowledge, he finds great little restaurants for us, asks locals about little-known places, and opens unexpected paths. His always cheerful and enthusiastic presence is a true treasure at the crossroads of travel and culture.

From a photographic point of view

All photographic practices are, of course, welcome: film, digital, telephoto lenses, large-format cameras… everyone brings their own sensibility and tools.
That said, if you practice so-called “slow” photography — such as large-format shooting or wildlife hide photography — it’s best to consider a solo trip.

Even among photographers, where patience is often a shared virtue, spending an hour setting up a tripod or staying still for five hours in a hide can eventually put even the best camaraderie to the test. It’s all about finding the right balance between everyone’s desires and rhythm: in a small group, flexibility and attentive listening are key.

As for drones: in China, legislation is surprisingly permissive, and it’s true that these vast untouched landscapes lend themselves beautifully to aerial photography. You’re absolutely welcome to use a drone for your photos or videos. There’s just one essential rule: make sure not to disturb wildlife, which is particularly sensitive during breeding or nursing seasons — especially in spring and summer.

Lastly, when our schedule allows, I like to take the time to share our photos together. Reviewing our images, discussing what we’d like to go deeper into or approach differently, starting a series on a specific subject… or simply talking about our successes, doubts, missed or unexpected shots. These shared moments are often the ones that truly fuel inspiration.

As a photo coach, I’m here to support you if you wish: to help refine your eye, better master your tools, develop a personal project, or overcome a creative block. It’s always a joy for me to exchange ideas about photography and to share feedback in a supportive and stimulating environment.

This journey is neither a classic tour nor a photography workshop. It’s a human and photographic adventure, a path we shape together, guided by curiosity, attentiveness, and respect.

It’s intended for those who have a taste for the unknown, a love for imagery, and a desire to explore this untouched land. For those who know that the most beautiful photos often emerge from the unexpected — a fleeting light, a spontaneous encounter.

If this spirit resonates with you, if you’re ready to leave the beaten path to discover a world still preserved — and perhaps return a little changed — then you are most welcome.

I’ll be waiting for you with joy, camera in hand and eyes wide open!