Power without Force

When I made this image, it was winter, which in Monglia, is unspeakably harsh. Even so, this huntress and her golden eagle partner were comfortable. I remember wearing gloves, with heat packs in my pockets, and layers of protective clothing. But accessing my camera, I could only operate it without gloves and for a few minutes at a time. Between these brief sessions, I would shove my gloved hands into my pockets, grip, the heat packs, and jump up and down in an effort to warm my core.

I look at this photo today and recognize what I witnessed was power, strength, and an exhilarating mightiness…but no sense of force. To this hunting team, it was the moment before a game. Their “sport” involves intense physicality and moving with joy and speed—she, on a horse; the eagle in flight—through outdoor elements such as wind, sunlight, precipitation, Mongolia’s terrain, and the season’s weather conditions.

I am aware of how this image represents tradition, with centuries of masters of the practice training young hunting teams, but also demonstrates progress. This young girl’s father or a chosen master has invited her into the craft of hunting for prey; an endeavor long taught only to young boys and men. In that aspect alone, there is additional power, strength, and mightiness that ensures the art and traditions of hunting as a team will not evaporate, grow antiquated, or cease to be.