Photographing Brown Bears in Finland - The Ultimate Guide for Wildlife Photographers

For a decade, I’ve been venturing into the wilds of Finland to photograph one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring predators—the brown bear. Each encounter is a privilege, a moment of connection with nature that never ceases to amaze. Watching these powerful creatures move through pristine landscapes, illuminated by golden light, is an experience that every wildlife photographer should have. Whether you’re just starting your journey into wildlife photography or looking to elevate your skills, Finland offers some of the most breathtaking opportunities to capture bears in their natural habitat.

Read on to learn expert tips, the best locations, and how to capture these majestic animals ethically.

Whether a novice or a seasoned photographer, this guide will help you create breathtaking images.

Why Finland? The Perfect Destination for Brown Bear Photography

In the heart of eastern Finland, near the Russian border, lies a world where nature reigns supreme. This region is home to a thriving population of brown bears, roaming through vast, untouched forests and pristine wetlands. Finland offers one of the best opportunities in Europe to photograph these incredible animals ethically and in their natural habitat.

Unlike other locations where human presence can disrupt wildlife behaviour, Finland’s specialist wildlife hides provide a unique chance to witness bears up close without disturbing them. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, ethical wildlife observation, and golden-hour photography opportunities makes Finland an unrivalled destination for capturing powerful, storytelling images of brown bears.

The Best Locations for Brown Bear Photography

Not all bear photography locations are created equal. The best areas in Finland are those that allow for minimal human impact, prioritising ethical wildlife observation and natural bear behaviour.

📍 Where to Go:

• Eastern Finland (Near the Russian Border) – This area offers remote, untouched habitats where bears roam freely, allowing for genuine wildlife encounters.

• Ethical Photography Hides – Purpose-built hides provide close access while ensuring the bears remain undisturbed, offering some of the most authentic wildlife photography opportunities in Europe.

The Best Time to Photograph Bears in Finland

The bear season in Finland runs from April to October, but each season offers a unique experience for photographers.

• Spring (April – June): Bears emerge from hibernation, lean and energetic, often engaged in fascinating interactions. The forests are just beginning to bloom, creating fresh, minimalist compositions.

• Summer (July – August): This is the prime season for bear activity, with long daylight hours and ethereal golden-hour light. Expect lush green backdrops and the occasional misty sunrise.

• Autumn (September – October): My personal favourite. The bears are at their heaviest, their coats thick and rich, and the autumn foliage transforms the landscape into a painter’s dream. The combination of golden leaves and strong bear presence makes for incredibly powerful images.

Understanding Brown Bear Behaviour in Finland

Capturing powerful wildlife images requires understanding the subject’s behaviour. Here’s what to expect when photographing brown bears in Finland:

1. Daily Activity Patterns

📌 What to Expect: Brown bears are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. During midsummer, however, the midnight sun allows for unique daylight photography opportunities.

🎯 Photography Tip: Prepare for long waits in a hide—some of the best moments occur in low light but atmospheric conditions.

2. Feeding Behaviour

📌 What to Expect: Throughout spring and summer, bears feed on berries, plants, and insects, while in autumn, they build fat reserves before hibernation.

🎯 Photography Tip: Capture bears foraging or sniffing the air, adding a natural storytelling element to your shots.

3. Social Dynamics & Communication

📌 What to Expect: Bears are generally solitary, but dominant males and protective mothers display powerful interactions.

🎯 Photography Tip: Watch for posturing, ear movements, or raised fur, which can indicate dominance or tension.

Photography Tips for Capturing Stunning Bear Images

1. Camera Settings for Stunning Bear Photography

• Shutter Speed: Set at 1/1000s or faster to freeze movement.

• Aperture: f/4 - f/5.6 to isolate the subject while maintaining background detail.

• ISO: Be prepared to adjust ISO to handle low light, particularly in the forest at dawn and dusk.

2. The Right Lens for Bear Photography

• A 300mm - 600mm telephoto lens is ideal for close-up portraits without disturbing the animals.

• A wide-angle lens allows you to incorporate the environment, giving your images a storytelling element.

*the above is subject to the hides and locations, I have had bears come within metres of the hide, which was too close for the lens to be able to focus. But being that close to a powerful animal is unforgettable.

3. Composition & Storytelling Tips

• Use leading lines to guide the viewer’s eye toward the bear.

• Capture behavioural shots—bears walking, interacting, or framed in their environment.

• Work with foreground elements like branches or foliage to add depth.

A Moment to Remember: The Roar in the Night

One of my most exhilarating experiences happened in a remote hide deep in the Finnish wilderness. The stillness of the night was shattered by a thunderous roar—a dominant male bear staking his claim. In the darkness, My remote trail camera caught this footage as he chased off a younger rival, the ground trembling under their powerful strides. The raw intensity of the moment is something I’ll never forget—and it’s precisely why I keep coming back.

Ethical Wildlife Photography: Respecting the Bears

At Nature’s Nomads, we believe that ethical wildlife photography should always come first. Photographers have a responsibility to observe without interfering. When photographing bears in Finland, we follow these key principles:

✅ Choose ethical hides that limit baiting and prioritise natural behaviours.
✅ Keep noise and movement to a minimum to avoid disturbing the animals.
✅ Focus on genuine interactions rather than staged scenes.

Join a Brown Bear Photography Tour

If you want to experience the thrill of photographing brown bears in Finland, join one of our expert-led wildlife photography tours. Whether you’re just beginning your wildlife photography journey or looking to refine your skills, we provide a tailored experience that helps you get the best images while ensuring ethical wildlife practices.

🚀 Click here to explore our bear photography tours and start your next adventure.

Final Thoughts

Photographing brown bears in Finland is one of the most rewarding experiences a wildlife photographer can have. Whether you’re capturing the powerful presence of a dominant male, a mother with cubs, or a lone bear framed by golden autumn light, these moments will stay with you forever. With patience, respect, and the right approach, you’ll leave with images that tell a story—and a deeper appreciation for the wild.

📸 Are you ready to embark on a wildlife photography journey like no other? Let’s capture the wild, together.