Svalbard is a dream destination for wildlife photographers. With incredible landscapes and wildlife in abundance, this remote archipelago offers some of the best opportunities to capture the beauty of the far north. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned professional, Svalbard’s unique environment provides the perfect backdrop for stunning shots of iconic Arctic species like polar bears, walruses, and Arctic foxes as well as capturing some of the most stunning landscapes on our planet.
In this guide, we’ll explore the essentials of wildlife photography in Svalbard, from planning your trip to photographing some of the Arctic wildlife.
The archipelago’s dramatic landscapes, featuring glaciers, fjords, and towering mountains, are home to a wide variety of wildlife that has adapted to the harsh polar conditions.
Svalbard is renowned for its rich wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, reindeer, and many bird species such as puffins and Arctic terns. The chance to photograph these animals in their natural habitat is a unique draw for photographers from around the world.
Svalbard is one of the few places on Earth where polar bears can be observed in the wild. As apex predators, they are a highlight of any photography expedition, often spotted on sea ice or along the coastlines hunting seals. Capturing images of these majestic creatures is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The combination of wildlife and stunning landscapes makes Svalbard an unparalleled destination for photography. The contrast between icy fjords, snow-covered peaks, and the rich blue of the Arctic Ocean creates a backdrop that elevates your wildlife photography to the next level.
Before setting off on your Arctic adventure, preparation is key. The remote and challenging environment of Svalbard requires careful planning to ensure you capture the best images possible.
Joining one of our specialist-led Arctic photography trips is one of the best ways to make the most of your trip to Svalbard. Our trips are led by experienced photographers who know the region intimately and can guide you to the best locations for wildlife sightings. They also offer valuable tips and advice on how to capture the perfect shot in the often challenging Arctic conditions and will help you edit afterwards as well!
Explore our Svalbard trips led by Specialist Leaders.
Cold weather gear for both you and your camera are essential. The Arctic environment can be tough on camera equipment, so make sure to bring spare batteries (which drain faster in the cold), lens protection, and appropriate storage to keep your gear safe and functional. A sturdy tripod, telephoto lens for long-distance shots, and wide-angle lens for landscapes are must-haves for any photographer visiting Svalbard.
Driving your own snowmobiles over the Arctic tundra and on-board the expedition ship, you will be on the lookout for wildlife, hoping to see polar bears, walrus, seals and reindeer alongside the epic Arctic landscape in some of the best light conditions. Svalbard is always an extraordinary adventure!
From 11000 per person
Join us in 2024 for polar bear cruises in Svalbard aboard the R/V Kinfish, where every moment is an opportunity for polar bear watching amid the stunning Arctic scenery.
From 10660 per person
The timing of your visit to Svalbard is critical to the type of images you want to capture. The summer months (June to August) offer 24 hours of daylight, providing ample photography opportunities. This is also when wildlife is most active.
The winter months, on the other hand, bring the magical polar night, with the possibility of photographing the northern lights over frozen landscapes. This is when you’ll also be able to capture the best frozen landscape where everything as far as the eye can see is completely cased in ice.
The wildlife of Svalbard is as varied as it is fascinating, offering plenty of opportunities to capture breathtaking images.
Often seen as the star attraction, photographing polar bears requires patience, skill, and a bit of luck. Polar bears are typically found on the pack ice or near the coast. Using a telephoto lens is crucial for maintaining a safe distance while still getting close-up shots of these magnificent predators.
It is critical that these animals are observed from a safe distance and AECO guidelines are followed for both your safety and the safety of the bears.
Walruses are another iconic species in Svalbard. These massive creatures are often found lounging on the shores or swimming in the cold waters. Their distinctive tusks and social behaviour make them a favourite subject for photographers.
Arctic foxes, with their thick white fur in winter and brownish-grey coats in summer, are highly photogenic. These small but resilient creatures are often seen hunting for food along the tundra or scavenging around bird colonies.
Svalbard is home to a variety of bird species, including puffins, little auks, and Arctic terns. The towering bird cliffs of the archipelago offer a unique opportunity to capture images of birds in flight or perched on rocky ledges. They’re best photographed during the summer months when thousands of birds travel to Svalbard to nest.
While capturing incredible images is the goal, it’s equally important to prioritise the safety and well-being of the wildlife you are photographing. Here are some key points to keep in mind.
Maintaining a safe distance from wildlife, especially polar bears, is essential. Never attempt to approach or disturb animals for the sake of a photograph. Long lenses allow you to capture detailed shots without getting too close.
Svalbard’s fragile ecosystem requires careful stewardship. Be mindful of your impact on the environment by staying on designated paths, not leaving any litter behind, and following all guidelines set by your guides.
Ensure that your photography efforts don’t negatively impact wildlife or the environment. Respect Svalbard by leaving it as you found it.
Svalbard offers an incredible opportunity for wildlife photography, with its dramatic landscapes and diverse Arctic species providing the perfect canvas for capturing unforgettable images. Whether you’re photographing polar bears on the sea ice or Arctic foxes against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains, Svalbard is a destination that will challenge and inspire even the most seasoned photographers.
