Jimmy Nelson’s 7 Lessons Learned from Three Decades of Travel Photography

British photographer Jimmy Nelson has spent the last 31 years traveling the world photographing tribal and indigenous peoples to try and make them into icons and to leave a visual heritage for present and future generations. He wants to create an aesthetic document that will stand the test of time.

In the latest COOPH-video, Jimmy shares 7 of the most intimate life lessons photography has taught him, based on stories and experiences. Jimmy talks about humor, knowledge, vulnerability, pride, judgement, respect and reflection, and how all those things have made him the image maker he is today.

The images shown in the video are from “Before They Pass Away,” Jimmy’s long-term project that showcases more than 30 tribes from around the world. He hopes that his work will be a catalyst for further discussion as to the authenticity and beauty of fragile and disappearing cultures.

Visit Jimmy Nelson’s website for more information about is work and to see some of his breathtaking pictures. If you would like to witness a real life exhibition of his “Before They Pass Away” series, you will have to go to Belgium, Germany, France, Austria or Great Britain.