Traditional portraiture in Kyrgyz Republic

19th -28th september 2026

Ready for a photography journey filled with adventure, authentic portraits in remote landscapes, and genuinely friendly faces?

Date

19th-28th September 2026

Location

Kyrgyz Republic (5 locations)

Included 

  • Professional photography guidance
  • Godox lighting equipment
  • All lodging and meals in Kyrgyzstan
  • All in-country transport during your stay
  • All scheduled activities and local models included

Level

Intermediate: This workshop is for people who already have full control of their camera and want to learn how to handle any lighting situation or improve their composition in challenging locations.

Your photography equipment

  • Camera, memory cards, and tripod
  • Godox trigger (if you have one, for compatibility with my equipment)
  • Your own lighting equipment (optional, if you prefer using your own gear)
  • All required batteries

Physical Condition

Walking is optional, not essential. The journey takes place at higher altitudes with some winding roads, but you’re free to enjoy each location at your own pace and comfort level.

Price

3390 € (flights not included)

During this workshop, you will learn...

Here are the key takeaways from the workshop, but once you’re on location, you’re free to capture additional images to enrich your series. Kyrgyzstan is a beautiful country, and our accommodations offer plenty of opportunities for your own creativity.

COMPOSITION

Every scene can be interesting if you dare to use unique compositions.

LIgHT uNDER CONTROL

Whether you’re shooting indoors or outdoors, mastering light is essential. Don’t let natural lighting conditions dictate what your ideal photo should look like.

Focus on what's important

Direct the viewer’s attention to the most important elements of the scene while still preserving the richness of its context

ACTION

Practice sports photography by capturing real traditional games from Central Asia.

Details

Because even the smallest details tell part of the story.

Editing

Post-production is part of the photographic process. It’s better to learn it during the shooting days so you can bring out the mood and atmosphere of the moment.

Travelling
19th -20th / 09

Departure from Brussels on saturday evening and arrival in Kyrgyz Republic early in the morning of Sunday.

Guides and equipment
20th / 09

We will first enjoy lunch with our local guides Aida and Gulira, then discover flash equipment and other accessories at a local studio. At the end of the day dinner at the guesthouse.

Adventure
21st / 09

The adventure begins with a scenic drive to Song-Kol Joloman yurt camp, enjoying a traditional breakfast along the way. Upon arrival, we photograph the yurt installation process and settle into the camp’s unique atmosphere.

Yurt camp lifestyle
22nd / 09

Wake up to the peaceful surroundings of Song-Kol. Spend the day taking photos around the yurt camp and the lake. In the afternoon, watch and photograph a game of Kyz Kumaay on horseback. Finish the day with a relaxed meal together at the camp.

Felt crafts
23rd / 09

Begin the day in the peaceful setting of the yurt camp, surrounded by unspoiled nature. Spend time photographing the traditional Kyrgyz craft of felting. Later, travel to Naryn, where a cozy guesthouse (and shower!) awaits to end your day.

Naryn
24th / 09

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning with optional computer lessons at the guesthouse. After lunch, explore Naryn at your own pace or join in on an activity.

Horse games
25th / 09

Time to photograph traditional Kyrgyz horse games like Kok Boru, Er-Enish, and horseback archery. In the evening, share a delicious dinner at the yurt camp with our Salburuun models.

salburuun
26th / 09

Early morning photographing our Salburuun models with Taigan dogs, falcons, and eagles in the golden light, all dressed in traditional attire that reflects Kyrgyz hunting heritage. After lunch, travel to Bokonbaev at Issyk-Kul for a folklore performance and a final dinner, before returning to Bishkek.

scenic farewell
27th / 09

Start the day with a sunrise photo session at Skazka Valley. After a scenic drive back to Bishkek, enjoy a farewell dinner to wrap up the journey.

Back home
28th / 09

Say goodbye to Kyrgyz Republic, carrying unforgettable memories and stunning photographs.

Download the brochure

In collaboration with

Estíbalitz Soto

Lead photographer

Aida

Model and partner

Gulira

Local tourist agent

Aizada

Yurt camp host in Song-Kol

behind the scenes

For any questions send an email to hi@esti.photo

 
As soon as the minimum number of participants is reached, TUI will contact you. At that time, TUI will offer you options for international flights. You are free to book these through TUI or arrange your international flights yourself.