Eaglehunter Huanjol, Last of His Name

• Prize
  Bronze in People/Culture
• Photographer
  Apostolos Kaloudis
• Technical Info
  Camera Nikon Z5, Shutter Speed 1/10, Iso 100, Aperture F/9, Full Frame
• Photo Date
  17-02-2024

For thousand of years, nomadic hunters used birds of prey as a valuable hunting companion across the northern steppes from Eurasia to China. It was fundamental for the acquisition of food & furs in the harsh, unforgiving winter months. The relationship between the hunter and the eagle is forged when the eagle was a wee eaglet and the image symbolizes a trusted bond between the two. Here is eagle hunter Huanjol, a fine master in the traditional art & knowledge (tak) of taming eagles. He has no children. His unique way of training, as described by an older eagle master is threatened to be lost

My name is Apostolos Kaloudis, and I'm an adventurer. I consider myself as an adventurer/explorer, rather than a photographer. When I was studying Medieval History, I was amazed by stories and details of military campaigns. Something that impassioned me later to go out and explore remote lands, such as the Silk Road, the vast Steppes & deserts of Central Asia & northern China or even former Himalayan Kingdoms.