Mongolia's Naadam Festival Photography Workshop: A Masterclass in Portrait and Cultural Photography

Join us in Mongolia for one of the most immersive cultural photography workshops on Earth—an experience that blends action, tradition, and a portraiture masterclass set against the rugged backdrop of the steppe.

This isn't your average photography tour. It’s a deep dive into centuries-old Mongolian culture guided by Kevin Pepper—who’s led more Mongolian tours than any international photo guide—and David Topping, a portrait artist known for his painterly style and expert instruction in color grading and compositing.

Together, we offer something rare: a chance to learn storytelling through environmental portraiture and cultural documentation in a country that still lives its history.

 
 

Why This Tour Is Different

A Masterclass in Portrait Photography
This tour is co-led by two passionate educators. Kevin brings a decade of Mongolian field experience and deep connections with local communities. David brings a fresh, artistic eye to portrait photography, teaching everything from in-camera technique to advanced post-processing in Lightroom and Photoshop.

Whether you're just learning or refining a pro-level portfolio, this tour is designed to push your creative boundaries in the most inspiring way.

 
 

The Naadam Festival – Mongolia’s Living History
The heart of this trip is Naadam: Mongolia’s most important cultural celebration. With exclusive press access, we photograph the wrestling, horse racing, and archery events from up close—capturing every expression, gesture, and traditional detail.

Private portrait sessions with locals in traditional dress allow for controlled, compelling imagery with coaching from both Kevin and David. This is where portraits come alive with story and soul.

 
 

Beyond the Festival: Wildlife, Nomads, and the Eagle Hunters
We photograph endangered Przewalski’s horses in the wild, spend time with horse herders, and explore remote mountain landscapes. Then we head west to photograph golden eagle hunters—some of the most visually striking and culturally rich portraits you’ll ever create.

You’ll live alongside eagle hunting families, gaining access that few travelers receive, and capturing portraits that feel like they belong on the walls of a gallery.

Tour Highlights

  • Exclusive Access to Naadam with ground-level seats and photo credentials

  • Private Portrait Sessions with monks, herders, and eagle hunters

  • Wildlife Photography of the rare Przewalski’s horse in Hustai National Park

  • Expert Instruction in portraiture, cultural storytelling, and editing workflows

  • All Logistics Handled – including internal flights, private vehicles, and top-tier accommodations

  • Comfort in the Wild – enjoy air-conditioned transfers, a private chef in our ger camps, and seamless support from local guides

 
 

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 – Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, welcome dinner
Day 2–3 – Gandan Monastery, monks in prayer, and wildlife photography in Hustai
Day 4 – Horse herding session by dunes and lakes
Day 5–6 – Naadam Festival events, full access to the action and ceremony
Day 7–8 – Fly to western Mongolia, live with eagle hunter family, shoot portraits and cultural scenes
Day 9 – Return to UB, visit premium cashmere store, farewell dinner
Day 10 – Depart for home

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to elevate your portrait and cultural photography, this is the workshop. The light is dramatic. The people are proud. The traditions are real. And with two professional photographers guiding you—one rooted in experience, the other in creativity—you’ll leave Mongolia with images and skills that stay with you for life.

Learn more, and check out the Nadam festival tour page at Akari Photo Tours.

Mongolia, Photography WorkshopsKevin A Pepper