You will be picked up at Kuusamo Airport and taken to Rukatunturi, an idyllic resort of traditional wood chalets, high up in the fells. Here, you will be equipped and fitted with all the necessary accoutrements for winter photography in Finland (snowshoes, overalls, etc.) and will have a chance to settle in before joining the rest of the team for a welcome dinner and briefing. In the evening, we will visit the Riisitunturi National Park to capture the sunset as it shines across pristine snow-laden wetlands.

Today, you will take in the incredible views from atop Konttainen Hill, giving you a panoramic perspective of the surrounding lakes and rivers. Afterwards we will continue to Kiveskoski and Käylänkoski, two of the most scenic stretches of the River Kitka, backdropped against the densely forested Russian border.

Depart from Rukatunturi in the morning towards Oivangin Lomakartano, where you will have lunch and participate in one-to-one workshops on location. The highlight of the day is the frozen waterfalls of Korouoma Nature Reserve. Along the trail, you will have the chance to photograph 14 sparkling examples of nature’s artistry, offering ample opportunities to get the perfect shots of these icy marvels surrounded by snow-covered forest.

This morning will be spent with workshops, assessing shots taken so far, as well as some free time to explore the surrounding area and practice new techniques. After dinner at the lodge, congregate under the stars as we prepare to hunt for prize shots of the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights.

From Oivangin Lomakartano, we make our way to the Kiutaköngäs Rapids in the heart of Oulanka National Park. This dramatic collection of roaring waterfalls is renowned as one of the most impressive in Finland and makes for impressive photography from almost any angle. In the evening there will be the possibility of partaking in the full Finnish smoke sauna experience and dive into the ice cold waters afterwards (only for the really adventurous!)

Today, we will make our way along a famous hiking trail, creating dramatic compositions using the deep ravines of the Myllykoski and Jyrävä Rapids, the dense snow-topped vegetation and vastness of the surrounding landscape. Afterwards, enjoy a simple Finnish lunch as you warm yourself by a wood stove in a hut surrounded by the open wilderness.

This morning’s workshop is all about the art of landscape photography using snowmobiles. Learn some useful tips and trips for handling equipment and getting the best shots in preparation for the day ahead. After lunch, you will set out on an exciting snowmobile safari along the Russian border and across the otherworldly landscape of Kuntivaara, speeding among the snow-covered forest that resembles something from another planet. Weather permitting, an atmospheric outdoor dinner will be served, taking full advantage of the impressive scenery. This remote location offers the ideal setting to capture the incredible night-time shots of starry skies and the Northern Lights at its most beautiful.

Check-out after breakfast and say goodbye to your guide and fellow participants. We look forward to welcoming you on your next Better Moments workshop!