See Hannes’s Work On Instagram
Professional Landscape & Nature Photographer
Hannes Becker is a freelance photographer specialised in the adventure and landscape niche. Grown up in rural Germany, his photography style has been influenced by his surroundings early on. These days he is inspired by the north and Hannes is drawn to the remoteness faraway.
To inspire the viewer and showcase his experiences in a realistic manner, he does not only document his travels, but makes part of his personal interpretation come to live within his photographs, by emphasising composition and lighting.
“Once you set foot in Svalbard, the likelihood of returning is high. There’s a genuine risk of being bitten by the “Arctic bug.” As a photographer, the possibilities are endless, whether you’re focusing on capturing wildlife or, like me, immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes. No other place exhibits such majestic tranquility and vastness, evoking a profound sense of soulfulness. When you visit Svalbard, you truly encounter the elements firsthand, feeling the greatness of the surroundings while appreciating your own vulnerability.”
I’m Hannes Becker, a freelance photographer with a deep passion for adventure and landscape photography. Growing up in rural Germany, my early surroundings heavily influenced my photography style. These days, I draw inspiration from the North and find myself irresistibly drawn to remote locations. In my work, I aim to inspire viewers by authentically capturing my experiences and bringing them to life through photographs that emphasize composition and lighting.
In 2018, I embarked on my first trip to Svalbard and was immediately captivated by its incredible and unparalleled nature. It’s a place so pure and pristine that I had never witnessed anything quite like it before. Once you set foot there, the likelihood of returning is high. There’s a genuine risk of being bitten by the “Arctic bug”. It’s an intangible force with no antidote. As a photographer, the possibilities are endless, whether you’re focusing on capturing wildlife or, like me, immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes. No other place exhibits such majestic tranquility and vastness, evoking a profound sense of soulfulness. When you visit Svalbard, you truly encounter the elements firsthand, feeling the greatness of the surroundings while appreciating your own vulnerability. It’s an experience that I actively seek.
I’ve been fortunate to embark on numerous expeditions across Antarctica, Greenland, and Svalbard. Some of my most cherished journeys have always been the cruises with fewer people. These intimate settings allow for deeper connections, where even strangers can become lifelong friends. Sharing those once-in-a-lifetime experiences with familiar faces is much more fulfilling and rewarding.
Rather than solely focusing on epic landscapes, I strive to discover and capture a diverse range of elements. It could be the clouds, the waves, or even the smallest details like moss, all of which evoke emotions and possess unique textures. I extensively utilize various focal lengths, ranging from wide-angle to telephoto lenses. Each landscape presents itself differently depending on the lens utilized, allowing me to convey a more comprehensive narrative about the location.
When it comes to essential items, a big and warm jacket is a must. Even in September, temperatures can drop significantly or surprise snowstorms can occur. Batteries tend to drain faster in the cold weather, so it’s crucial to have enough spares and power banks. A good pair of gloves and a monopod also come in handy for keeping your camera steady on board. Sometimes, I even bring hand warmers because functioning hands are vital for capturing those incredible shots.
Regarding gear, you don’t need to worry. Any camera, regardless of brand or model, will do just fine. What truly matters is your knowledge and skill in using it effectively. As for our photo tour, don’t fret about your level of expertise. Konsta and I will be there to support and assist you throughout the journey. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a photography enthusiast, our mission is to create stunning images and tell stories of the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife we encounter.
We’re all sharing a place of unbelievable beauty, but also incredible fragility. The Arctic, in particular, is severely impacted by climate change and rising temperatures, leading to the accelerated melting of glaciers and sea ice. Glaciers used to reflect most of the sunlight, helping to keep the planet cool. Sadly, over the last century, we’ve witnessed significant ice recession, resulting in rising global water levels. It’s a sobering feedback loop that we can’t ignore. While this is a global problem, not everyone has the opportunity to witness it firsthand. Through capturing the effects of climate change and sharing them online, I hope to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations. It’s a complex issue, but I’m excited about engaging with fellow travelers onboard to find effective ways to communicate our message to the world through the images we create.
I strongly recommend joining our tour as we explore the East of Svalbard. Our aim is to capture the rare phenomenon of meltwaterfalls cascading over the sheer ice cliffs of the Austfonna Ice cap. It’s an awe-inspiring spectacle that truly represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I can’t wait to embark on this incredible journey together and witness the beauty of Svalbard through our lenses. Let’s capture moments that will leave a lasting impact.
