I’m Rujan, a licensed trekking guide living in Kathmandu. I am also a photographer. On a photo walk I am there for your photographs, not my own, and I work differently from a normal city tour. This is how.
We start when the light starts
The best hours in the Kathmandu Valley are early: at six in the morning the old squares are quiet, shops are still closed, there are few vehicles, and people are at their morning prayers. I pick you up at your hotel before sunrise, and we come back when the light gets hard.
Two sessions in a day
If the midday light is harsh, or you are tired from the flight, we split the day: one walk in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, with rest in between.
Less history, more light
I can tell you the story of every temple, but on a photo walk you came for the light and the faces. I keep the history short, and we talk about where the light will fall and who we might meet.
Asking before every portrait
Close portraits need permission. I ask for you in Nepali, explain what you want, and translate. When it is fair, a small amount is offered, always with permission. Some people say no, and we accept a no with a smile.
Waiting
Good photographs take time: for a monk to cross a courtyard, for the sun to reach the stupa. I am happy to wait. Some photographs you have seen online took their makers a week of waiting; I will tell you honestly what one morning can give.
I remind; you decide
If I think you are tired or want to go back, I will still tell you what is nearby and let you choose. I learned that on one of my walks, and I keep it. At long ceremonies I tell you at the start: say when you want to leave.
Respect
- No photos where they are not allowed, such as the Living Goddess in her courtyard.
- At the cremation ghats, distance and care. See visiting Pashupatinath with respect.
- In monasteries, ask first. See visiting a monastery respectfully.
See my photo walks and the best sunrise viewpoints.
If you are not sure which suits you, write to me and tell me what you hope for. I will say honestly.
Rules change. If something here is out of date, please tell me and I will correct it.Tell me
