Arctic Photography Tours & Expeditions
Highlights
- World-class wildlife-photography opportunities, as on Svalbard polar bear photo tours
- “Shoulder-season” cruises provide for outstanding astrophotography, from pristine dark skies to Aurora Borealis displays
- Shoot remarkable human stories—past and present—in some of the harshest environments on Earth
- Document landscapes and ecosystems as they undergo among the most rapid and pronounced changes in the face of a warming climate anywhere
- Gather images of monumental wilderness scenery, from iceberg graveyards to mountain icecaps
It’s not an exaggeration to say that the Arctic ranks among the most rewarding destinations anywhere for shutterbugs. Photographers in this top-of-the-world zone can capture scenes that range from the piercingly beautiful to the otherworldly: sailing icebergs and the calving snouts of tidewater glaciers, jagged granite peaks and steep-flanked fjords, endless glinting flats of Arctic Ocean drift ice.
Wildlife photographers from the world over journey here for chances at such heraldic beasts as polar bears, walruses, bowhead whales, reindeer, muskoxen, and Arctic wolves. And from the colorful port towns of Greenland to the stark ruins of Norse settlements and ghostly Northwest Passage expedition outposts, the Arctic’s human heritage has its own strong visual appeal. Whether on general sightseeing cruises or dedicated photography tours, you’re guaranteed to come home with a gallery of once-in-a-lifetime images.
About Arctic Photography Tours & Expeditions
It’s not an exaggeration to say that the Arctic ranks among the most rewarding destinations anywhere for shutterbugs. Photographers in this top-of-the-world zone can capture scenes that range from the piercingly beautiful to the otherworldly: sailing icebergs and the calving snouts of tidewater glaciers, jagged granite peaks and steep-flanked fjords, endless glinting flats of Arctic Ocean drift ice.
Wildlife photographers from the world over journey here for chances at such heraldic beasts as polar bears, walruses, bowhead whales, reindeer, muskoxen, and Arctic wolves. And from the colorful port towns of Greenland to the stark ruins of Norse settlements and ghostly Northwest Passage expedition outposts, the Arctic’s human heritage has its own strong visual appeal. Whether on general sightseeing cruises or dedicated photography tours, you’re guaranteed to come home with a gallery of once-in-a-lifetime images.
Arctic Photography Cruise FAQs
What makes an Arctic cruise ideal for photography?
Arctic cruises offer unparalleled access to stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and dramatic light conditions that change throughout the day. Expedition ships can navigate to remote areas, providing photographers with opportunities for close-up shots of iconic Arctic species in their natural habitat.
What camera gear is essential for an Arctic photography cruise?
Bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with multiple lenses, including a telephoto lens (e.g., 300mm or more) for wildlife, a wide-angle for landscapes, and perhaps a macro for details. Don’t forget extra batteries (they drain faster in cold), memory cards, a tripod, and waterproof bags.
Do Arctic photography cruises offer guidance or workshops onboard?
Many photography-focused Arctic cruises include professional photography guides or instructors who offer lectures, workshops, and one-on-one advice. They can help with settings, composition, and post-processing, enhancing your skills throughout the journey.
How do cold temperatures affect camera equipment, and how can I protect it?
Cold can drain batteries quickly and cause condensation. Keep batteries warm in inner pockets, use multiple batteries, and allow your camera to acclimate gradually when moving between warm and cold environments by keeping it in a sealed bag to prevent condensation.
Is there enough space and time to set up for shots during excursions?
Expedition leaders understand photographers’ needs. During Zodiac cruises and landings, they often allow time for guests to compose shots, and some cruises might have dedicated “photographers’ Zodiacs” or specialized itineraries for optimal light and positioning.
What kind of wildlife photography opportunities are common?
Expect opportunities to photograph polar bears, various species of seals and whales, walruses, arctic foxes, reindeer, and numerous seabirds like puffins and guillemots. The varied landscapes, from icebergs to tundra flowers, also offer extensive landscape photography potential.
Arctic cruises offer unparalleled access to stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and dramatic light conditions that change throughout the day. Expedition ships can navigate to remote areas, providing photographers with opportunities for close-up shots of iconic Arctic species in their natural habitat.
Bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with multiple lenses, including a telephoto lens (e.g., 300mm or more) for wildlife, a wide-angle for landscapes, and perhaps a macro for details. Don’t forget extra batteries (they drain faster in cold), memory cards, a tripod, and waterproof bags.
Many photography-focused Arctic cruises include professional photography guides or instructors who offer lectures, workshops, and one-on-one advice. They can help with settings, composition, and post-processing, enhancing your skills throughout the journey.
Cold can drain batteries quickly and cause condensation. Keep batteries warm in inner pockets, use multiple batteries, and allow your camera to acclimate gradually when moving between warm and cold environments by keeping it in a sealed bag to prevent condensation.
Expedition leaders understand photographers’ needs. During Zodiac cruises and landings, they often allow time for guests to compose shots, and some cruises might have dedicated “photographers’ Zodiacs” or specialized itineraries for optimal light and positioning.
Expect opportunities to photograph polar bears, various species of seals and whales, walruses, arctic foxes, reindeer, and numerous seabirds like puffins and guillemots. The varied landscapes, from icebergs to tundra flowers, also offer extensive landscape photography potential.
Ships Offering Arctic Photography Tours & Cruises
Recommended Reading
10 Fascinating Polar Bear Facts
10 Wild Wolverine Facts: A Marvel Of The Arctic Kingdom
A History Of Arctic Exploration (Including Timeline)