Friends in Wild Places

by Gregory Elgee

Sometimes, the right environment can do what social networks can’t: spark true friendship. Sometimes, all it takes is a deserted beach, or a remote mountaintop for two people to find they have something in common.

This is Mark. I met him on day two of the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal.

He was one of those now-you-see-me-now-you-don’t friends you make while traveling — you meet, you have a blast, and then, just when you think you’ve made a new best friend, you go your separate ways. It’s an unfortunate phenomenon.

Right before this shot was taken, Mark and I had traded an elderly Sherpa some of our yak jerky for a bag of crab apples. No words were spoken, no money was exchanged; just sign language and laughs. It was one of the coolest moments of my life, and I got to share it with this guy.

Cheers, Mark. I hope you’re still making friends in wild places. Wherever you are.

Gregory Elgee, Mylio Digital Apprentice

Who knew?

1. A monkey once ran away with my 250mm lens
2. I have driven two of the world’s most dangerous roads
3. I’m desperately trying to make it to the Valley of the Kings

I like to shoot: Wildlife, macro, astrology, candids

Likes to listen to orchestral music while taking long exposures of the night sky. Learning about photography is something he’ll never get sick of. Some of his more noteworthy adventures include teaching English in China; backpacking the Annapurna Circuit of Nepal, and canoeing Dal Lake in Kashmir.