The Arctic is Calling

For 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of capturing the essence of the Arctic landscape through my camera lens. What started as a hobby has evolved into a fulfilling career as a nature photographer and film maker. Today, I’m proud to celebrate three decades of work with Lapland Media, a company born out of my passion for the stunning beauty of the North. But my journey wasn’t always in photography. I spent many years as an environmental scientist in Umeå and Abisko, where I was constantly inspired by the grandeur of the natural world around me. It was here in the wilds of Swedish Lapland that I found the spark that led me to a new path—capturing the spirit of the North through my camera.

Abisko, a small village nestled in the mountains of Kiruna Municipality, has been my home for 13 years. It’s a place I continue to return to, drawn by its unmatched beauty and the unique experiences it offers year-round. From the ethereal Northern Lights to the bright energy of the Midnight Sun, the landscapes here offer endless inspiration for a photographer. Whether it’s winter with its snow-covered vistas or summer with the endless daylight, Abisko holds a special place in my heart. It’s more than just a location—it’s where my connection to the land, its wildlife, and its people deepened, influencing every photograph or film scene I take.

Living in the Arctic means freedom — freedom to work in an environment I love, surrounded by nature and wildlife. The silence of the wilderness, the delicate play of light at dusk and dawn, and the unpredictable beauty of nature inspire me every day. Whether I’m capturing the power of the Northern Lights or the quiet strength of the local reindeer, it’s these moments that speak to me as a photographer.

One of the things I cherish most is the unique light of our two most extreme seasons—the depths of winter and the Midnight Sun. In winter, the low, soft light creates mood and drama, perfect for capturing the beauty of the frozen world. To me it is the season o llight. Meanwhile, the endless daylight during the summer months brings out the vibrancy of life and wildlife in the North, casting everything in a magical glow that transforms even the simplest scenes.

Five key photography tips

For anyone visiting this part of the world, I’d offer five key photography tips:

1. Be patient and observe. Nature is unpredictable, but with patience, you can witness and capture the most incredible moments.
2. Use the light to your advantage. The Arctic offers some of the most unique lighting conditions. Embrace the golden hours around sunrise and sunset, and don’t forget how the midnight sun can light up a scene at two in the morning.
3. Respect the environment. Whether it’s photographing wildlife or nature, always be mindful of your surroundings. The beauty of the North is fragile, and as photographers, we have a responsibility to preserve it.
4. Capture the small details. The beauty of the Arctic lies not just in its grand landscapes, but in the delicate, intimate moments. Pay attention to the little things—whether it’s frost on a tree branch or the glint in a reindeer’s eye.
5. Plan your shots. With the vastness of nature, it can be easy to get lost in the moment. Have an idea of what you want to capture and take your time to compose your shots thoughtfully. Remove everyting that is not needed in the scene. Simplification is a word to remember.

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work with amazing clients world wide but also locally with eg. Kiruna Lappland, showcasing the beauty of Swedish Lapland through images and film. Through my books, including ”Magic in the Lapland Sky” and ”Midnight Sun over Swedish Lapland”, I’ve shared not only the stunning landscapes of this region but also my deep connection to the culture, wildlife, and natural phenomena that make the North so special.

Photography isn’t just my job—it’s my passion, and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to share the magic of this place with others. Whether it’s through my images, my books, or my guided photo tours, I’m committed to helping people experience the Arctic’s profound beauty firsthand.

Want to see a part of Peter’s world? 
Visit his image bank at Lappland Media with thousands of images and film clips from Swedish Lapland.
Visit his website and online shop. A selection of merchandise featuring Peters images can be bought at the tourist center.

Text and photos: Peter Rosén