ENTRY DESCRIPTION
On a recent expedition to Svalbard, my mind was set to photographing polar bears and arctic foxes. So when I fell in love with a particular walrus up in the Arctic Circle, I was very surprised; completely obsessed and enamoured, this photo is dedicated to him.

Lying peacefully in the middle of the tundra on pack ice, we approached in a zodiac. Noticing his lack of interest or concern in us, we circled him a few times allowing for some wide environment shots. Every so often there was a minimal amount of movement, a slight adjustment and perhaps a subtle but lazy glance towards us showing the least amount of curiosity possible. Since our guides deemed it fit to carry on a little closer as we weren't disturbing the animal, we were able to get some intimate portraits of a rather large being.

Using my long lens and a portrait-style photographic approach, I started photographing this walrus in various light and perspectives. This is when I truly became obsessed. His strength, endurance and empowering character really came to life, albeit in the most casual manner possible.

For one moment, when he adjusted and managed to lift himself up - he sat proud with a dusting of snow gathered from his bed. The juxtaposition of the large beast vs the lightness of the environment was wonderful.

It was when I reached home that I properly appreciated all the imperfections, noticing the beauty in them and allowing the shot to celebrate all his markings, scars and wrinkles.

A lovely surprise from the Arctic.

AUTHOR
London based, wildlife and nature photographer.

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