Arctic Borders
Join this 7 day arctic adventure in Abisko, Sweden and Senja in Northern Norway. Highlights of the trip include winter landscapes, frozen gorges, grand vistas and the chance of experiencing the greatest show on earth, the Aurora Borealis aka Northern Lights.
Our basecamp for the first two days will be in the world renowned Lyngen alps in the far north. We will explore less visited fjords and valleys and focus on documenting the golden arctic light. The region feature ice plastered peaks as picturesque as any range in the world. Massive daggers that rise boldly into the sky. Just google them, but bring grab a towel, you will drool. We are timing this trip to coincide with early winter, the moon phases for dramatic night shooting, and hopefully some great displays of the Aurora. Sunrise and sunsets in early winter are only 5-6 hours apart. Sunrise around 8.30am and sunset around 2pm. This is comfortable for resting inbetween shoots., but mostly it means we will have incredible arctic light for 6-7 hours straight. This arctic light has to be seen. Pink hues and tones like no other place on earth. Set in a winter wonderland this will be mindblowing.
The second leg of the tour (day 3-5) is Senja islands in Northern Norway. Senja is perhaps Lofoten’s less famous “brother”, but rest assured – it’s just as strikingly beautiful. The landscape is wild and almost untouched, and the light in this period of the year can be extraordinary. Highlights include fjords and jagged granite mountains with lots of seascape opportunities, the Northern Lights and tons more. Photo opportunities are lurking around every corner.
The next two days we will be exploring the wild Abisko, Sweden. This is a world class location, and several global media houses have listed this tiny village as one of prime spots for auroral activity. One look outside your bedroom window, and you will understand why – vast landscape and frozen lakes, waterfalls, gorges and complete winter wonderland. If we are blessed with starry nights and clear skies, we will be able to capture the elusive and strikingly beautiful Aurora Borealis aka Northern Lights as she dances seductively on the night skies. On the 9th we will head and stay overnight at a hotel closer to the airport, which makes logistics on departure day a lot easier.
GUIDED BY ARILD HEITMANN, STIAN KLO & ODD-ARE HANSEN
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of photography is required ?
All of ours tours, workshops and masterclasses are open to beginners as well as professionals. Our only criteria is that you have a great passion for photography, and have the energy and motivation to be on the go every day and night.
What should I bring ?
Since we are exploring the high arctic and northern Norway archipelago’s, you have to be well equipped for all kinds of dramatic weather including rainfall. Bring comfortable, warm and waterproof outer layers such as Gore-tex, thermal underwear, crampons and water resistant boots or even waders. A complete list of recommended clothes as well as camera gear will be provided upon registration. We don’t have clothes or shoes available for renting.
Will I experience snow or ice ?
Yes, most likely. The winter months in northern Norway are known to generate a great amount of snowfall. Early November can provide both winter conditions and autumn conditions.
Will I see and photograph the Northern lights?
Yes, most likely. Aurora season is from late August to early April. Early November is a great time to see and photograph the Northern Lights.
What kind of weather can I expect ?
The weather and climate in northern Norway is renowned for being extremely unpredictable because of it’s many local weather systems. This means conditions can change within minutes and kilometres, also resulting in very dramatic light and photographic opportunities. Northern Norway has a much milder climate than other parts of the world at a similar latitude, such as Greenland and Alaska. This is due to the temperature of the water of the Gulfstream. The coastal climate results in mild winters and cool summer temperatures. Traditionally, January and February are the coldest months with an average temperature of -1 degrees celsius. In November it is much the same. When we drive into Sweden we may experience much lower temperatures. Minus 10 degrees and colder is not unusual.
What camera gear should I bring?
At the very least, bring your own camera, lenses, tripod and a laptop. A detailed list of recommendations will be provided upon registration. If you are considering upgrading or investing in new camear gear prior to the trip, feel free to ask us for advice.
Is it possible to do other activities outside of the workshop?
Absolutely. As mentioned above, we’ve planned an itinerary for seven days which is very flexible. None of our shoots are mandatory, so if you want to sleep in or do something outside of the group, we can assist you with booking activities and transportation. We can also give advice and recommend local operators if you are interested in extending your stay in northern Norway.
How do I get there ?
The easiest way to travel to the north is via Oslo Gardermoen airport (OSL code). From there, you can fly to Harstad/Narvik Evenes airport (EVE code). Domestic flights in Norway can be purchased from www.sas.no or www.norwegian.no
