Ethereal Connection

• Prize
  Bronze in Advertising/Travel/Tourism
• Photographer
  Thibault Gerbaldi
• Technical Info
  Iso200, F/4 1/1000s 90mm Full Frame
• Photo Date
  23nov23

Standing proudly, this Peruvian farmer is surrounded by her alpacas, most of them gazing towards me, creating an illusion as if they are one entity. It almost appears as if this woman is floating in the air, enveloped by her devoted group of alpacas. In Inca times, the alpaca was a chosen gift to the gods, highlighting its importance. In modern Peru, alpacas are considered part of the family. The pride in traditions is evident, as families proudly share their culture. The symbiosis between humans and alpacas is remarkable, with the animals seamlessly integrated into family life.

Thibault Gerbaldi is a self-taught Leica photographer and passionate traveler, known for authentic stories from the world’s most remote regions. His work spans landscapes from Greenland to India, blending documentary, travel, and portrait. He has self-published seven books and earned recognition: 1st at Siena Awards 2025, International Photo Awards 2025, and TPOTY Rising Talent (2024). Exhibited globally and featured in LFI and LENS Magazine. As a board member of The Forgotten International, he supports humanitarian projects.