Photographing the tribes of Northern Kenya on tour with FROST
Northern Kenya is a land of contrasts—where lush highlands give way to vast deserts and where deep traditions remain untouched by time. Our latest photography expedition took us on a journey through this extraordinary region, capturing the rich cultural heritage of its people and the striking landscapes that define it.
Our primary goal was to document the diverse tribes of Northern Kenya in their natural environments, from the lush mountains of Samburu to the arid, otherworldly expanse of the Chalbi Desert and the life-giving waters of Lake Turkana. Each location offered a unique backdrop, and each encounter deepened our understanding of the resilience and beauty of the people who call this area home.
One of the highlights of the trip was Lake Turkana, known as the “Jade Sea” for its striking green and blue hues. As the world’s largest desert lake, it provides both sustenance and spiritual significance to the tribes that live along its shores. Photographing the Turkana, El Molo, Samburu and Rendile people, with their elaborate beadwork and centuries-old fishing traditions, against the backdrop of the shimmering waters was an unforgettable experience. Lake Turkana truly is a melting pot of cultures.
The vast Chalbi Desert, a stark and seemingly endless stretch of cracked earth and salt flats, offered a completely different photographic challenge. Here, we met the Rendille people, whose semi-nomadic lifestyle is intricately tied to the land. Their vibrant attire stood in stunning contrast to the pale desert landscape, creating powerful environmental portraits that tell the story of survival in one of Africa’s most unforgiving terrains.
As we moved south into the Samburu region, the scenery transformed dramatically. Towering mountains, lush riverbanks, and red earth provided a striking contrast to the dry expanses of the north. Spending time with the Samburu people, whose traditions remain deeply rooted in their pastoralist way of life, allowed for some of the most dynamic cultural photography of the tour. Their intricate garments, beaded adornments, and bold red patterns made for compelling compositions in the golden light of dawn and dusk. We loved scouting for locations to photograph on top of high peaks and cliff edges as the Samburu stood tall and proud, towering over their land.
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