Join us on a breathtaking journey through Tibet, led by Better Moments founder Christian Nørgaard, a celebrated travel and portrait photographer with extensive experience capturing the essence of Asia’s diverse landscapes and cultures. This workshop is designed for those eager to elevate their photography skills while exploring the spiritual heart of the Himalayas and the unique Tibetan culture.
Tibet, known as the “Roof of the World,” is a land of stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and vibrant traditions. It is home to the majestic Himalayas, including Mount Everest and Mount Kailash, revered in multiple religions. Experience the spirit of Tibet with Christian Nørgaard, who will guide you through its hidden treasures, from the bustling streets of Lhasa to the serene beauty of remote monasteries and awe-inspiring mountain vistas.
Christian Nørgaard is the founder and CEO of Better Moments. He has spent years photographing and traveling extensively across Asia, gaining recognition for his unique photographic vision. Recently, he has collaborated with Steve McCurry and other leading photographers from National Geographic for exhibitions and events. His workshop in Tibet is a unique opportunity for any photographer to combine adventure, spiritual exploration, and landscape photography while learning from one of the best in the field.
Day 01: Arrival in Beijing
Arrive at Beijing Capital Airport and transfer to our hotel. Take some time to relax before the adventure begins.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner where Christian Nørgaard will provide an introduction to the journey ahead, covering both the logistical details and the unique photographic opportunities that await you in Tibet.
Day 02: Explore Beijing
Begin the day with a visit to the Summer Palace, a stunning imperial retreat with sprawling gardens, lakes, and historic architecture perfect for capturing serene landscape shots. After a photogenic lunch at an imperial-style restaurant, the group will head to Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares, followed by a walk around the Forbidden City, capturing its centuries-old grandeur.
In the evening, Christian Nørgaard will lead a street photography workshop, focusing on techniques to bring life and character into your urban photography, offering guidance on composition, light, and capturing moments amidst the hustle and bustle of Beijing.
Day 03: Beijing to Lhasa
Fly to Lhasa and transfer to the hotel. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing to the high altitude. We will take a light walk to Jokhang Monastery, located on the bustling Barkhor Street, a spiritual hub for Tibetan pilgrims. This provides the perfect opportunity to practice capturing cultural and candid moments.
The evening will include a discussion with Christian on overcoming the challenges of high-altitude photography, with tips on adapting camera settings and techniques to the unique lighting and atmospheric conditions.
Day 04: Discover Lhasa
Begin the day by visiting the iconic Potala Palace, former residence of the Dalai Lama. Its majestic presence on the Lhasa skyline offers incredible photographic perspectives. After lunch, continue to Drepung Monastery, once the world’s largest Buddhist monastery, where you’ll capture the vibrant spiritual life of Tibetan monks.
In the evening, a review session with Christian will help you refine your ability to capture the spiritual essence of such profound locations, with practical tips on balancing composition, light, and the emotional depth of a place.
Day 05: Lhasa to Gyantse
Travel to Gyantse with a stop at Samye Monastery, one of Tibet’s oldest and most significant monasteries. En route, we will visit the breathtaking Yamdrok Tso, one of Tibet’s four sacred lakes, a dream for landscape photographers.
Upon arrival in Gyantse, visit Pelkor Chode Monastery and the famous Kumbum Stupa, where you can practice wide-angle shots and intricate architectural photography. In the evening, Christian will lead a workshop on capturing cultural landscapes, blending historical architecture with the surrounding natural beauty.
Day 06: Gyantse to Shelkar
On our way to Shelkar, we will stop at Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, to visit the grand Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. Here, you’ll have the chance to capture both expansive architectural views and intimate portraits of monks in their daily routines.
In the evening, Christian will lead a discussion on the art of storytelling through photography, focusing on how to narrate your journey visually.
Day 07: Shelkar to Rongbu and Everest Base Camp
Start the day early with a scenic drive to Everest Base Camp. As the sun rises over the majestic Himalayan range, you’ll have the opportunity to capture one of the world’s most iconic landscapes. Visit Rongbu Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, for more incredible shots of both nature and culture.
The evening review session will focus on perfecting high-altitude landscape photography, with tips on capturing the scale and grandeur of the mountains.
Day 08: Shelkar to Saga
Continue along the Himalayan range, driving to Saga with stops for photo opportunities at Pelku Lake and Shishapangma Mountain. The scenic drive offers a chance to capture the vast and diverse Tibetan landscapes, from sparkling lakes to snow-capped peaks.
In the evening, Christian will conduct a workshop on mastering wide, expansive landscape photography, guiding you on how to make the most of these panoramic views.
Day 09: Saga to Mt. Kailash
Arrive at the sacred Lake Manasarovar and Mt. Kailash, considered the spiritual center of four major religions. Here, you will have a unique opportunity to photograph pilgrims making their spiritual journey around the lake, as well as the breathtaking natural beauty of the area.
In the evening, join a discussion on capturing spiritual moments in photography, where Christian will share his expertise on how to blend emotion with imagery.
Day 10: Explore Mt. Kailash
Today, you will have the chance to walk alongside Tibetan pilgrims on their journey around Mt. Kailash, stopping at Qugu Monastery for portrait photography. Here, we will focus on capturing the unique traditional attire of local Tibetan women and their spiritual devotion.
The evening will feature an in-depth workshop on portraiture, with Christian providing guidance on lighting, framing, and how to connect with your subjects.
Day 11: Mt. Kailash to Tsanda
Spend the morning photographing Mt. Kailash at sunrise before departing for Tsanda. Upon arrival, visit the Ruins of the Guge Kingdom, an ancient site that offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. As the day ends, capture the Tsanda Earthen Forest at sunset, with its unique rock formations and dramatic light.
In the evening, Christian will review the group’s landscape photography, offering tips on how to enhance your shots of this rugged and mystical terrain.
Day 12: Tsanda to Shiquanhe
Wake up early to photograph the Tsanda Earthen Forest at sunrise before heading to Shiquanhe. After days of intense photography, take a relaxing afternoon to review your work and rest.
In the evening, Christian will lead a workshop on post-processing and image enhancement, guiding you through the editing process to bring out the best in your images.
Day 13: Explore Shiquanhe Area
Depending on the local schedule, we may have the opportunity to attend a traditional Tibetan horse racing festival, where you can practice action photography and capture the excitement and color of local culture.
The evening review session will focus on refining your action photography techniques, helping you create dynamic and engaging images.
Day 14: Return to Beijing
Fly back to Lhasa and connect to a flight to Beijing. Take the evening to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and incredible photographic moments you’ve captured throughout the journey before traveling home to your final destination.
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