Wildlife Photography in a snowstorm | 4-Day winter trip to Norway - Ep.1

I am on Dovrefjell in Norway on a 4-day trip to photograph the musk oxen. Winter wildlife photography and wild camping - it doesn't get any better.
Episode 2: • Wildlife Photography i...
Episode 3: • A Photographer's Parad...
✦ ABOUT THIS VIDEO
I have been on Dovrefjell almost every year for the last 8 years and I love Norway, the location and the musk oxen so much.
Winter wildlife photography is definitely one of the things I love the most, and by bringing my tent and my camping equipment, I am able to stay out for several days, weeks or months.
This is the first time I am using a guide on this location, but being together with a very experienced local wildlife photographer / guide is definitely an advantage. Not only to find the musk oxen, but also to lear about the animals and the area in general.
My Guide on this trip: Even Hønsen Agerup from Moskus Guiden.
Instagram: Moskusguiden
/ moskusguiden
In this first episode we are hiking up the mountain to establish a base camp. We are going for the first photo trip, and in the afternoon I say goodbye to Even and I have four days in front of me.
I am looking forward to sharing this experience with you.
Happy watching and stay tuned for the next video.
✦ WHO I AM.
My name is Morten Hilmer and I am a professional nature and wildlife photographer.
I am a Nikon Ambassador and I work as an ILCP photographer.
Nature conservation is very close to my heart.
I have served in the Danish military special unit, the Sirius Patrol, for two years and that has given me the skills and confidence to operate alone in the arctic regions.
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🔗 SOCIAL MEDIA & WEBSITE
• Website & Shop: mortenhilmer.com/
• Instagram: / mortenhilmer
• My 24/7 Livestream: / @nature-live
📸 EQUIPMENT
An overview of the equipment used in my latest KZbin video can be found on below link.
Here you will also see a selection of my favorit gear for various activities:
kit.co/MortenH...
🛒 AFFILIATE LINKS
Some of the links in my video descriptions are affiliate links, which means at no extra cost to you, I will make a small commission if you click them and make a qualifying purchase. If you have a different purchase in mind, you can also use these storewide links below.
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☊ MUSIC
You can find most of the music I use here:
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Nordic Cinematics: nordiccinemati...
Enjoy watching.
See you out there...

[@ronvelner6530]

I always think about how much effort and time it will take to film yourself when you walk in and out of the shot. Set up the camera, walk back and often with a bend so as not to leave any footprints and then walk past the camera. Then the reverse when you walk out of the shot. And that many times in difficult circumstances. Incredible passion for nature and photographing showing us how fantastic it all is.

[@terrydanks]

@Ron: Yes! That has me saying to myself all the time: "These shots don't just happen!" Was amazed at him pitching his tent, alone, in pitch black night and in a howling winter gale in one of his other vids! I was paralysed with cold just watching! LOL!

[@Ruslan_davudov_photography]

It's his dog who is behind the camera 😂

[@Bob4golf1]

Often thought the same thing as Ron.

[@raysanders332]

Yes, I think about the added time it takes to make these videos. Retrieving and going ahead to setup camera. Doubles your trip.

[@Methodical2]

Too much work and time for me. I don't have the patience. I just want to get there and go to work. I don't want to waste any energy doing all that camera work. I applaud those who do though.

[@montanaylago]

“I’m out of shape” says Morten after carrying a 40kg backpack for a day up the mountain with a another 30kg in a pulk! Really beautiful landscapes, I’m looking forward for next episode when you show us the musk oxen! See you out there!

[@anirudharun04]

The reason I love Morten is not because of his images and videos but because of the human he is. Instead of disturbing the animals he decides to take his chance, and he was rewarded by nature. He enjoys every bit of the journey, the sunset, the snow and can we please appreciate how nice he is to the people around him. Show him some love. With all the love possible Morten, Anirudh Arun.

[@MortenHilmer]

Thank you so much for such a lovely comment

[@KatMac5]

I agree with you Wilderness Films. The experience rather than some pictures gained at any cost.... calms me to know people still exist like Morten.

[@Ticolme819]

Beautiful landscapes. Enjoyed hearing and seeing your enthusiasm on just being out there. Totally love your morals and ethics for the animals. That's why your the best!

[@Torbjoern76]

Absolutely!!!

[@1unisol1]

shots like that 04:31 show real dedication, running ahead, setting the camera, walking back and then walking towards the camera. wow.

[@calebwait510]

drinking coffee and watching morten hilmer, perfect match

[@shimmeringreflection]

I can't imagine how much effort goes into making this wonderful film singlehandedly in such cold and inhospitable conditions

[@johnhillman2619]

Your face at 9:09 tells us just what it means to you, Morten ... and it's such a beautiful, wild, landscape.

[@Sashman077]

Morten, my wife gave me your Silence of the North book for Christmas. An amazing work of art. All the effort you are putting to create these images is remarkable . Your dedication to photography and wildlife is truly inspiring. Looking forward to see your next episode.

[@raffaeleortisi1896]

Hey, my wife gifted it to me too!!! What an amazing gift.

[@ViVuGo0574]

Phong cảnh mùa đông nơi này thật đẹp, chụp hình động vật hoang dã rất tuyệt !

[@patrickmolloy6994]

translated "The winter scenery here is so beautiful, wildlife photography is great!"

[@stevekaschak9442]

I want to say you lead a "charmed" life, but in reality your dedication, devotion and effort has brought you to an amazing occupation. I salute and thank you for sharing your love for our wonderful world.

[@rutgerleunen4812]

Climbing up a mountain in a snow blizzard, then to decide not to go closer to not disturb the animals and giving up a perfect picture or movie of them. You have such respect for the animals which is amazing to see.

[@sebulban]

For me, Morten you are the no1 outdoor human of the 2000’s. Such a respect towards the animals and the nature surrounding you. Also your way to express and find the beauty of weather conditions , even at hardest icy storm, makes you a truly unique person. Let alone this KZbin scene. Best of luck finding those musk oxes and stop by in Finland when ever you might find the time 😊

[@chrisfourie9410]

Hi Morten. I am always surprised at the hammering your gear takes in the worst exposure to the elements, and still exquisite pictures. Always a pleasure to watch you, and I draw so much motivation from you. Feels like I am on assignment with you every time Chris

[@davidhuth5659]

I'm in agreement with many others. Your videos are the best. Your passion and deep respect for nature is obvious and so appreciated. Keep up the great work and I can't wait for the rest of this series!

[@clicks_by_mirza]

Snacks, Coffee ☕ & Morten's new Video 😍💓💕

[@terrydanks]

Really appreciate Morten's videos. The B roll content always impresses. He's alone, usually. Those clips of him walking away, setting up camp, or out on the trail require work! Has to set the camera up, go back and get the shot and then retrieve the camera again before moving on. Only to have to do it all again for the next clip. Also, he's tough! Even too many years ago when I was his age, my idea of fun would not have been enduring the cold and blowing snow he seems to take in stride! Way to go, Morten!

[@CharlesMercer]

I can see that you are in your element here. Thank you for taking us with you. It means so much,

[@saltycherrypie6918]

It's amazing the length you go to in order to document your journey's as a viewer I feel like we can often forget that. Thanks so much this is extremely inspiring

[@Max_Gindele]

Wow, what a great video! I always really enjoy watching your videos. They are very inspiring and I get many, new video ideas from them. Keep up the good work 👍🏼💪🏼 Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 🎁

[@7niemar]

Thank you for another beautiful video. I watch your channel [with coffee] from the beginning (all the time) with great joy and satisfaction. They are beautiful, inspiring, they charge "my batteries" when the weather does not allow me to shoot in the field. Are so many youtubers of wildlifephotography. Your videos have something unique. Many have beautiful photos and videos, but there is one thing that distinguishes the creators. It is the man on the other side of the camera - your calmness, personality, character, it is hard for me to name it. You are a good man, sensitive, empathetic, persistent and this is probably what makes me watch your films .. Thank you for everything, good luck in further expeditions.

[@MagnarHoumb]

Hei Morten, først vil jeg takke deg for all inspirasjon du har gitt meg. Tror jeg har sett absolutt alle filmene dine. I denne filmen legger jeg merke til at du legger kamera i pulken. Jeg har lurt litt på hvordan du håndterer utstyret i all slags vær du utsetter det for. Mvh Magnar

[@MortenHilmer]

Mange tak Magnar. Dejligt med dine fine ord.

[@bushcraftagustinmontoya6324]

Happy New Year 2022, For the Whole Family. Greetings. Thank you for everything 🙏

[@renagoodfriend-leve9443]

Thank you for your dedication and perseverance and showing us these beautiful animals

[@cliftonwhittaker260]

Another amazing adventure, Morten. One thing I am learning for sure, I would never buy a used camera from you. Looking forward to seeing your capture of the musk oxen images. :))

[@JPLamoureuxsTravels]

Fabulous buddy, I've not been out that way in the snow for so many years, this makes me realise how much I miss it!

[@FaviousM]

That was really enjoyable. Looking forward to the next episode

[@balazskovacs180]

Thank you Morten for the amazing quality videos, you never disappoint.

[@patrickjegat3550]

Bonjour L'ami Morten Hilmer, je partage le commentaire de l'ami Ann Tolksdorf, merci pour ces belles images, quel courage de sortir avec des conditions extrêmes, quelle volonté de photographe confirmé, merci encore l'ami de nous en mettre plein les yeux ,bonne continuation. Un admirateur de France. 👍👍

[@Wheels_Unlimited]

THIS is why I subbed to your channel! I love these long, winter photography trips. You've changed my life in such a good way by showing me how great adventures like these can be. I'm still saving up for a decent camera setup, but it has become a new life purpose to have adventures like these. Thank you for sharing it with the world!

[@ronboe6325]

Oooh, the sound of the snow - cold! Ufdah!

[@LondonWalkbyLondonSocialite]

wow, this is so cool! awesome video! keep warm and keep safe 🦋🦋🦋 looking forward to your next awesome experience! 🦋🦋🦋

[@WalterMatherPhoto]

Beautiful video! Looking forward to seeing the next episode, and so true what you say about the shelter, a good shelter in a harsh environment makes the whole trip much more enjoyable.

[@aashiparekh5333]

You never fail to make me feel so inspired. Thank you for all the effort and time you spend making these magical videos for those of us that can’t yet go on these adventures. We live vicariously through you! Sending you so much love always!

[@MortenHilmer]

Thank you so much. That is one great compliment:)

[@silentguy111]

I have missed your trips into the beautiful snow fields

[@joet9451]

Perfect video to convince me to stop babying my equipment! Wonderful video, thank you

[@robgerety]

What an ordeal. I had the good fortune to see several herds of Muskoxen in the Canadian Northwest Territories on a summer canoe trip just near the arctic circle. Summer mind you. Nothing like this winter trip. We were generally warm and comfortable - although even in summer it is harsh country on the tundra. At least you don't have hordes of insects! The muskoxen are gorgeous creatures.

[@davidlawson3400]

I just moved to Alaska so I’ll be doing plenty of winter photography. I really appreciate your videos. Always well done and always informative.

[@old4004]

I first got on your trail several years ago, Morten, when you were photographing the Musk Oxen in a blizzard. I have followed you ever since, and nothing you do has the drama of Musk Oxen in the wild winds and snow.

[@giuseppecapilli1954]

This is the best present I received this Christmas. Thank you Morten!

[@einfachunterwegs2099]

That's so moody and exciting … thanks for sharing these unique ❄🐾🐾 nordic moments!

[@brianbrooking496]

Love the hardship you endure for your passion. Love that we get to go on the ride with you in our pyjamas with the fire on.

[@Santos-oc2no]

thank you very much morten, love your winter videos, Your calendar was amazing too, my brothers love them. thanks for sharing your videos

[@theflyingdutchman7127]

Thanks for sharing your Adventure . It’s amazing . 👍❤️

[@projektphotovisions]

Great to see this place - I love Dovrefjell National Park and was hiking and shooting there many times. I wasn't there in such hard winter conditions but knowing the place I know it must have been magical experience - open high plains, the wind... Maybe I was lucky but I was able to photograph muskox every time I was there - sometimes only single animals in a far, sometimes bigger herds. During one memorable trip I met 3 different big groups of them. These animals just fits in this vast landscape perfectly. Thanks for sharing Your adventures.

[@NikCan66]

Always brilliant video yet stunning pictures and landscapes want one to be in such environments challenging one's self with the passion you have is remarkable.

[@billybraithwaite67]

You’re such an inspiration morten, beautifully shot in very challenging conditions. Your care & thoughts for the animals shines through. Just wonderful 👏

[@tonyturner7676]

Superb video, loved every moment of it even though I thought it was I who was getting frostbite! Roll on the next episode.

[@derekcoe9633]

I’ve always felt an affinity for Scandinavia even though I’ve never been there, the ice, snow and landscapes are just so ‘pure’.

[@szebenyizsolT]

Wonderful place and hard winter ... I love ...

[@টিটুলমণ্ডল]

Hey Morten! Finally you are back! I have been waiting for long for upcoming videos. And It's here now. Waiting for next episode(s)

[@janm2473]

Wow Morten! This is just wonderfully, amazing footage of your journey to Norway. Over Christmas, I went north.. I live in central Alberta and we've had an extreme cold front settle upon us.. minus 34 to minus 40 Celsius over night, not including any windchills. I walked along the frozen Sturgeon river, hoping to spot a snowy owl but no such luck, It's so invigorating to be outside with nature... your dedication to your craft is mind blowing. Thank you for sharing your passion with your followers.

[@joshhead9368]

These videos are amazing Morten. I just got my very first camera 3 days ago. I've been wanting to get into wildlife photography for a few years now and now I'm finally starting and your channel is very inspiring. Thank you so much. Cheers from Alberta Canada.

[@katharinemovertonphotographer]

Great Video looking forward to the next one

[@malcolmriley6897]

Wow! You are one tough man, Morten. Such dedication and determination. I was shivering just watching that. Can't wait for the next episode.

[@victormultanen1981]

I do wish one day to make something like this trip with my son. thank you for inspiration!

[@Rob.1340]

Thank you . Merry Christmas and happy new year. Hoping 2022 brings you peace, blessings and good fortune. Thanks again. 👍📷😎

[@annetivendale8616]

A man in his true element!💙

[@picapica42]

I know I say this every time, but what a nice video! Your Dovrefjell videos must have been among the first I watched on your channel ages ago. Such beautiful light and landscapes and I especially enjoyed the sound of the wind. Looking forward to (hopefully) seeing the muskoxen in the next video 😀

[@MortenHilmer]

Hi Pica. I always love your comments. Looking forward to sharing episode 2.

[@klaus.bernhard]

There are only two persons, who are so familiar with storm and snow: one is: Ötzi (I hope you know his story) and second: you personally 😉👏 such a great work, LG Klaus

[@BezekCo]

Your videos helping me get over the COVID

[@GrasshoppersPath]

Your rosy cheeks and cheerful smile say it all, the peaceful beauty of snowy places is very special indeed. ❄😊 Thanks for being so inspiring and have a wonderful 2022 filled with amazing adventures, and stunning photos of course. 🙂

[@F1OCU]

Many thanks Morten for sharing your adventures with us all, your effort and continued passion is so impressive and encouraging for others to want to follow. You truly are a legend, may you always be safe 👍and the coffee never runs out.

[@nickykwan9794]

Crazy extreme environment. You are the hardest working natural photographer I have seen and follow. You have bit by bit inspire to explore a potential camping trip for wildlife photography in the tropics.

[@alfredlucas3291]

Wonderful video from Dovrefjell and even Even was in it. He is a really nice guy and knows the area very well. I used him as a guide last winter and will use him again this winter.

[@MortenHilmer]

Even is an amazing person. Best guide ever.

[@JensErikThyholdt]

Hi! Thanks for another great video Morten. A little embarrassed to admit that a Dane knows more about photographing musk in Dovre than me, a Norman who has never been there. However, you have inspired me so much that I will get this next year.

[@constantine6230]

Just an amazing picture, music and stories! It's like I was there with you! Thank you very much for such hard work!

[@hedgehog3900]

Watching this reminded me of a saying we have here in the UK, there is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes. Stunning landscape, thank you.

[@pharaoh666666]

Thanks for this Morten. The snowy mountains are amazing.

[@soumenroychowdhuryphotogra864]

Amazing landscape as usual another great series.

[@michaelnikonfuji3539]

Looking at that giant lens strapped to the sled terrified me , you work your gear so hard, amazing, just love your videos

[@EduardoMendozaPhoto]

Yet another great piece, the great wild to soothe the soul, thanks so much Morten!

[@beeinthemountains2379]

Absolutely stunning landscape and another fantastic video. I have never been somewhere cold before - Uk temperatures only and a minimum of only -7, so nothing substantial. It is a dream of mine to visit a landscape like this and feel unbelievably inspired every time I watch one of your videos. Working my way through this new series now. Thank you :)

[@balintk.9373]

Love the make-shift human tripod :D

[@BullitTom]

Great video, amazed at the camera still working ok in that cold, not even bringing the big lens and camera inside. I worry when I’ve got my D850 out in +2c up here in Scotland. Look forward to next episode

[@davidcommon6710]

No musk oxen shots, yet simply beautiful, as always. Happy New Year from Thailand!

[@ammarabuoch1509]

How wonderful you are. I wish you success.

[@JudyStarchild]

I was so lucky to have visited Dovrefjell and the Trollheimen in the late 90's. This brought back such wonderful memories of what I consider to be the most beautiful place on Earth. Thank you and I wish you an awesome New Year 🥰

[@ZiyechDu93]

Great video Morten !!! Thanks for this nice video ! ;)

[@keithdickson8364]

That is simply amazing.

[@Joe-uw9og]

Gorgeous. I find such peace and inspiration in what you share. Thank you.

[@janlauridsen3305]

Yeahh Morten, another great experience! Thanks a lot for sharing. Thank you, Morten! Happy New Year!/Jan

[@patrickmolloy6994]

seeing out 2021 like this is just amazing! Happy New year!

[@SteveHedgesPhotography]

Fantastic landscape to explore, another great video, really good watch.

[@KatMac5]

That you respect the animals is good, and that you take good care to make yourself safe in camp is also good. I am new here.

[@advennature950]

Just found your channel. Excellent video and incredible scenery. Will definitely watch more of your channel. Thank you for sharing.

[@markpursglovephotography]

Fantastic. Great to see you on Snowy adventures again. ❄️❄️📷❄️

[@iastorgaphotos]

I waited till Christmas to open your 2022 calendar…thank you🙏🏼! And it’s great to see you back in the landscape you love. It’s still a wonder to me to know that musk oxen are related to goats than to bovines 😃. Have a wonderful week and let me wish you a Happy New Year till the next vlog!🎉✨🤗

[@slideworks]

These videos are such fantastic storytelling. Can't wait for the next episode!!

[@cmichaelhaugh8517]

Beautiful as always. Can’t wait for the next 3 days.

[@alexandraacreator-art]

Incredibly cool video, the story, the cinematic colors and feel. Very nice!

[@aureliomarsili3902]

Spectacular !!!

[@lukassinger_photo]

Merry Christmas and thanks for the wonderful video.

[@AlexWLychack]

I’ve been waiting for a new episode from yourself, Morten, for a while - and this one is awesome! Watched the whole thing with the awe and looking for a new one soon. Thanks for bringing the nature closer to us.

[@nick_401]

I'm already excited for the next episode. Your filming, storytelling, but mostly your passion for nature and wildlife photography is so genuine and inspiring... You opened up my eyes and showed me what I wanna be doing with my life once I get out of the military in a few years. Thank you!

[@ED-on8to]

Awesome video Morten!

[@nisquallydave]

Morten - I absolutely love your work and your passion for your work. I believe that one can change the world with their words and actions. You are changing the world and making us all more aware of these incredible landscapes and animals. I am not sure I could do what you are doing and that makes it more amazing and captivating. A question tho - does your camera gear suffer from the cold? Do you have shutter/battery/other cold-related issues with your gear and how do you deal with it. Waiting for the next episode while staying warm in front of the fireplace. Mahalo nui loa.

[@deroux]

Beautiful Video Morten! Looking forward to the rest of the series.

[@nickbristol3457]

Wow! This was just amazing to watch. Thanks Morten!

[@EzyYoutube]

Cant wait for episode 2!