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The world of wild reindeer

The world of wild reindeer

Seiland – A dramatic landscape in Northern Norway

Along the weather-beaten coast of Finnmark in Northern Norway lies Seiland, an island where the sea meets steep mountains and the scenery is both dramatic and breathtaking. When I first set foot on Seiland, I was struck by the raw beauty of the landscape, where fjords carve their way through mountains and rocky cliffs rise sharply from the ocean. Despite the harsh terrain, people have inhabited this area since the Stone Age, leaving traces of a rich coastal Sámi culture that continues to influence the region today.

During the summer, wild reindeer wander through the valleys and mountain slopes, creating a living connection between past and present. Observing these animals in their natural habitat reminds us that Seiland is not only a visual masterpiece but also an intricate ecosystem, where every plant, animal, and human story is intertwined.

Light and contrasts

 

 

Walking through Seiland’s valleys feels like entering a living painting. The light shifts continuously, from warm golden tones at sunrise to cool bluish shadows when clouds drift over the peaks. Every moment offers new contrasts and colors, transforming the landscape in ways that are impossible to predict. While many associate Finnmark with open plains and relatively flat terrain, the islands along the western coast offer dramatic natural experiences, where mountains rise steeply from the sea, and valleys hide lush grazing grounds for reindeer.

The play of light over the land is one reason I am drawn to photography here. Capturing the subtle variations of color and shadow allows viewers to experience the landscape as I see it – a mixture of serenity, power, and movement.

 

Seiland National Park and Europe’s northernmost glaciers

Seiland lies between Alta and Hammerfest and hosts Seiland National Park, a protected area that blends coastal landscapes, fertile valleys, and some of Europe’s northernmost glaciers. These icy giants rest as blue-white marvels in the mountains, giving the scenery a majestic presence that is hard to forget. Standing at the edge of a glacier, I feel a mix of awe and humility in the face of the forces of nature that have shaped this land over millennia.

Amid this dramatic terrain, wild reindeer move gracefully through the autumn-colored hills, enjoying the early morning light. Observing these animals is more than a visual delight – it is a reminder of the fragility of ecosystems and the importance of preserving them for future generations.

 

Reindeer in their natural habitat

Following wild reindeer up close is a unique experience that blends patience, observation, and respect. I remember sitting at Tromsø Airport, waiting for my flight to Hammerfest, flipping through books on nature photography. Reading about using backlighting and low-angle sunlight gave me ideas for capturing the reindeer and the surrounding landscape on Seiland.

When I finally encountered the animals, moving silently over the slopes, I understood the importance of treading lightly. Reindeer are sensitive to disturbance, and photographing them requires patience and respect for their natural rhythms.

 

The photographer’s perspective

For me, photography is about more than capturing the animal itself. It is about conveying the life, movement, and stories within the landscape. Each photo becomes a narrative of the environment, reflecting not just the reindeer but the interplay of light, terrain, and seasonal changes. Preserving these habitats ensures that future generations can experience the same natural freedom and beauty.

By documenting these moments, my work also highlights the importance of protecting migration routes, feeding grounds, and the broader ecosystem. Photography becomes both an artistic expression and a subtle call for conservation.

Fine Art Print - Reindeer Seiland National Park II. Visit the gallery to the Norwegian photographer Eva Virkesdal Eidsheim.

 

Autumn colors and photography tips

One of the most striking aspects of Seiland in autumn is the vivid display of colors across the valleys and hills. Warm reds, oranges, and yellows contrast sharply with the cool tones of rocks and shadows. For photographers, this is a season of opportunity – capturing both the vibrancy of the landscape and the subtle interplay of light.

When shooting reindeer in this setting, I focus on several key elements:

  • Golden Hour Light: Early morning or late evening light enhances textures and adds depth to images.
  • Backlighting: Highlighting fur edges and foliage creates a luminous effect.
  • Foreground Elements: Using rocks, shrubs, or small hills as framing devices adds layers to the composition.

Even simple observational moments, like noticing how a reindeer pauses in a shaft of light, can produce powerful imagery. Combining technical skill with patience and respect for wildlife is essential for meaningful photography.

 

Sámi culture and Reindeer

My encounter with Sámi culture on Seiland and in Hammerfest left a lasting impression. The stories that were shared. The music that filled the room, the sami evening, and the taste of traditional dishes made the experience complete. Preserving nature is also about preserving the human stories that are woven into the landscape.  For centuries, reindeer have been central to Sámi cuisine, crafts, and traditions. A vivid reminder of how nature and culture are deeply connected, and why we must preserve both.

My Experience on Seiland

My visit to Seiland left an unforgettable impression of this dramatic island. From standing on mountain ridges and watching the wild reindeer move quietly through the valleys, I experienced the landscape in all its power and beauty. The interplay of light, mountains, and wildlife inspired me both artistically and ethically, highlighting the importance of respecting and preserving these fragile ecosystems.

Every photograph I took that day became not just a memory, but also a small story about the value of nature – and why we must protect the landscape and the reindeer for future generations.

Conservation and Sustainable Practices

Norway has a legal responsibility to ensure that natural resources are used sustainably, including obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) since 1993. This framework emphasizes the protection of species like wild reindeer, as well as the landscapes they depend on.

Photographing reindeer in this context is not just an aesthetic endeavor; it is also a recognition of human responsibility. Each image becomes a tool to communicate the importance of conservation. Showing why preserving habitats, migration routes, and seasonal feeding grounds is critical.

Through photography, I aim to convey both beauty and stewardship. By sharing these experiences, I hope viewers gain an understanding of why these northern landscapes deserve protection – for wildlife, for cultural heritage, and for the chance to inspire future generations of nature lovers.

 

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Eva Eidsheim

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