Nature Through a Lens of Love
The Sinai agama, with its stunning colors and remarkable details, in Harrat Al-Raha, Tabuk Province. Courtesy of Ibrahim Sarhan.
Photography is not merely a means of documentation, it is a tool that invites us to see the world through different lenses and angles, especially when in the hands of a passionate traveler who meticulously captures the finest details of nature across plains, deserts and mountains.
Ibrahim Sarhan is a Saudi traveler, explorer, and wanderer who documents the diversity of civilizations and cultures around the world through writing and photography. He has authored several books, including Shdad and Camel Races in Tabuk. He was honored by the CEO of the Heritage Commission in recognition of his efforts and contributions to the heritage of the Kingdom. Additionally, he received the Qudwa Award from His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Mishaal Al Saud, governor of Al-Qassim region, as part of the Enhancing Intellectual Security program in Al-Qassim, for his contribution to promoting meaningful cultural content.
"The passion for nature and culture extends far beyond merely capturing photos; it is a blend of emotions and experiences that have grown since childhood, shaped by life and various encounters. Therefore, I do not like to define myself as just a photographer, because to me, the camera is merely a tool through which I express my love for nature and my passion for different cultures," said Sarhan.
His passion for natural photography was ignited by the breathtaking landscapes of Saudi Arabia. This richness in nature was his first source of inspiration and the greatest motivation for developing his passion and hobby.
The Ancient Village of Ghiya, Located in Al-Majardah Governorate, Asir Province, courtesy of Ibrahim Sarhan.
Sarhan explained his love for photographing and documenting nature: "It is captivating for deep and intricate reasons. The nature created by the Almighty is a flawless masterpiece where every element harmonizes beautifully with the other. When I stand before a natural scene, I am overwhelmed by a sense of sincerity and authenticity that is unparalleled.
"My passion for nature photography stems from constantly being surrounded by mesmerizing landscapes in Saudi Arabia. This natural wealth has been my greatest source of inspiration and the primary drive for developing my passion."
Sarhan added: "Perhaps what draws people to nature photography is that innate longing that connects us to the earth from which we were created, especially in our modern era, where urbanization has distanced us from nature’s beauty and magic. The camera grants me the opportunity to document and rediscover this eternal connection. The profound influence of nature on the human soul is evident in how companies and marketers recognize this unique appeal. They often present their products as inspired by nature or entirely natural, leveraging that instinctive relationship between humans and nature, our constant yearning for it, in a time when moments of immersion in and enjoyment of nature have become rare and precious."
On his journey with photography, Sarhan told us that he is in constant pursuit of beauty, whether in vast natural landscapes such as towering mountains and expansive plains, or in the most intricate details like the wind’s imprints on the sand. This incredible diversity in nature makes it an endless source of inspiration and creativity in all aspects of life.
Natural Rock Formations from Majami Al-Hadb Reserve, located in the Riyadh Province. Courtesy of Ibrahim Sarhan.
Sunrise over the mountains of Harub governorate, located in the Jazan Province.
Courtesy of Ibrahim Sarhan.
“Every story or difficulty is part of the journey to capture the photo,” said Sarhan. “In fact, I often feel more reassured when these challenges arise, as I believe that with increased difficulty and effort, the reward becomes even more satisfying and astonishing.”
Sarhan shared with us a stunning shot and said: "A spontaneous moment of young girls playfully swaying with a braided rope in a desert camp on the outskirts of Rub al Khali (Empty Quarter) during winter. The girls wear traditional dresses, with the backdrop featuring the intricate patterns of woven Sadu (traditional Bedouin textile patterns) fabric, reflecting the authentic artistry of Bedouin weaving. This photograph captures an unfiltered moment of pure joy, as the girls’ laughter is mirrored in their radiant expressions, embodying the spirit of playfulness and freedom that the desert camp offers. The entire scene forms a living canvas that harmonizes elements of heritage, childhood, and desert nature in a beautiful symphony."
Girls enjoying playtime, in one of the villages near the Rub al Khali (Empty Quarter). Courtesy of Ibrahim Sarhan.
Regarding photography and the environment, Sarhan said: "Photography holds a pivotal and unique role in environmental awareness. The lens has the power to capture natural beauty in a way that touches hearts before minds, helping to enhance environmental consciousness and encouraging the community to engage in conservation efforts."
Nature in Saudi Arabia holds a special place in Sarhan’s heart, as he further explained: "A single photograph can be more powerful than thousands of words in showcasing the breathtaking natural treasures of Saudi Arabia. This is especially true under the ambitious vision launched by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, God bless him, which places environmental protection at its core. Everyone has witnessed His Highness’s keen interest in nature and environmental conservation, emphasized in his speeches and his constant affirmation of the importance of preserving nature and coexisting with it rather than exploiting it at its expense."
Crescent-Shaped Sand Dunes in Rub al Khali (Empty Quarter), A vehicle appears as a tiny white speck to illustrate the vast scale. Courtesy of Ibrahim Sarhan.
Sarhan concluded the conversation by saying: "Human connection is at the heart of most of my photographic work. I love engaging with people and exploring different cultures. This passion led me to embark on a journey across the world’s remote edges, forests, mountains, and isolated communities, seeking the human stories that truly deserve to be told."
A lone camel in a scene of serenity and solitude among the sands of Abraq Al-Azaf, in Al-Hanakiya governorate, Al-Madinah Province. Courtesy of Ibrahim Sarhan.
White dome crater in Harrat Khaybar, Al-Madinah Province, one of the world's rare volcanic craters due to its distinctive white color. Courtesy of Ibrahim Sarhan.
