Tomaszcz

This time last year, I was in Finland on the trail of one of the continent’s largest mammals.

Looking through my photos has taken me right back to the atmosphere of that encounter; as we moved forward in silence, hidden by the vegetation, we came across this large male. It’s 9.30 pm; it’s still daylight, but the light is fading. A large shadow appears as we pass a tree, we freeze and realize what we are facing; he stares at us; I can hear his heavy breathing. I’m fascinated by the size of this animal – it’s the first time I’ve come so close to one, and only one of the first times I’ve seen one with my own eyes. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I know that, even though the chances are slim, he might charge if he feels threatened; but, as is often the case, the encounter is peaceful, and he eventually goes on his way quietly.

Beyond the incredible sightings and the landscapes, what I remember most of all is the memory of an idyllic week spent with my friends @boromisza_zs and @govinda.thompson . And today I realize even more keenly the value of those moments, and just how important it is to cherish them – not just in nature, but with the people you hold dear.

#moose #finland #wildlifephotography