Tips for Photographers Going to Tibet

With a uniquely high altitude, exotic culture, highland landscapes and friendly people, the Tibet Autonomous Region in the west of China offers perfect photo opportunities for all shutterbugs.

It is commonly believed that Tibet is a paradise for photographers. Attracted by fantastic snow-covered peaks, surging rivers in deep valleys, huge yaks grazing on the vast pasture, exotic ethnic customs and the unique religious life, photographers from every corner of the world arrive in Tibet, eagerly raising their cameras to record Tibet for themselves.

How can the marvelous landscape in Tibet be described? Some people joke that in Tibet even a careless shooter or a green hand will get a picture that is likely to win the top prize of a photo contest.

Here are some helpful tips for travelers who hope to enjoy photography on the plateau.

1. Take necessary technical precautions to protect your camera in case of extreme temperatures due to the harsh climate. It is also a good idea to carry spare batteries because some hotels in remote areas don't have electricity.

2. Taking photographs in monasteries is generally prohibited unless you get the approval from the monastery or pay a fee for your photography.

3. Take spare batteries, as the low-temperature in Tibet will greatly shorten their life span.

4. Take care of your camera and bring rain-proofed bags to protect it. Do not expose your camera to the blazing sunshine for a long time and don't use the camera when it is rainy. (However, some photographers ignore warnings about these things in order to take a good picture.)

5. You'd better equip the camera lens with a UV filter to protect the lens and also to capture the sky's amazing colours.

6. If it is possible, take a small table-tripod and flash lamp, which will bring you much more fun for your photography.

7. According to Tibetan tradition,it is offensive to take photos in some monasteries, especially photos of statues in the shrine. Do remember to ask for permission.

8.You should also respect the people you wish to take pictures of and try not to disturb them. If you want to take a photo of some people you'd better ask for permission first. If it is necessary you can send them some little presents after, which is better than giving them money.