Svalbard Winter tours
Explore Svalbard through your lens
Join expert-led photography tours in the Arctic wilderness.
My Svalbard tours offer small groups, flexible schedules, and great wildlife encounters.
Discover the untouched beauty of Svalbard
We go to the best locations at the best times to get amazing photos. We have the smallest group sizes on the market led by local resident, guide and photographer Stuart Thomson.
Why Stuart Thomson Foto?
Local Knowledge
Stuart lives in Longyearbyen and has up-to-date knowledge of conditions, wildlife activity, and the best locations.
Expert Guidance
As both a professional photographer and an experienced snowmobile guide, Stuart will take you safely to the best spots and put you in the right place to get the shot.
Small Group Experience
No crowded tours—just you, your camera, and the Arctic wilderness. Smallest group size on the market.
Flexible Itinerary
We go out when the light is best and adapt to your photographic goals.
Upcoming Winter Svalbard Photography Tours
Upcoming Summer Svalbard Photography Tours
What's Included in Winter tours?
- Professional photography guidance.
- Small-group experience (2-4 people max).
- Snowmobile transport and safety equipment.
- Flexible shooting schedule based on lighting conditions.
- Expert knowledge of Svalbard's wildlife and landscapes.
Safety Regulations
Due to new laws from January 2025, we must maintain a 500m distance from polar bears from 1st March to 30th June and 300m at all other times of the year.
We follow all environmental regulations and ensure ethical wildlife photography.
Important information for Winter tours
Best Time to Visit
The ideal photography season runs from March to April when light conditions are spectacular.
Fitness Level Required
Moderate—some walking in snowy terrain may be required. You need to be prepared to be out all day in the cold.
Weather Considerations
Conditions can change rapidly and we adapt our plans to the weather and conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior photography experience?
Most clients on winter trips have a lot of experience with photography and are serious hobbyists or professionals. We don't discriminate - beginners are welcome! Even non photographers are welcome, just be aware that getting good photographs will always be the focus of the trips. It is possible to enjoy the wildlife encounters without taking photographs yourself.
What camera gear should I bring?
DSLR/mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses are recommended, but not essential. I would recommend a range of lenses including a wide angle, medium tele, and long tele of at least 400 mm. I personally use 2 mirrorless camera bodies combined with a 16-35 f2.8 zoom, a 100-400 f4.5-5.6 zoom, and a 600 f4 prime.
You are welcome to join even with a smartphone and just enjoy the nature experience.
Can I rent camera gear?
No, but I can advise on what to bring.
What happens in bad weather?
We are always at the mercy of the Arctic weather and have to be prepared to change our plans. We adjust the itinerary to what the weather and conditions allow. We try to go out regardless of the weather but in severe storms we sometimes have to cancel going out. We regret that we cannot offer refunds due to weather, but we try to plan around the weather and go out at a different time of day
I have done small ship expedition photography in Svalbard before.
How does this compare?
I think Svalbard is at its most beautiful during the winter months. I also feel much more connected to the nature when on land and face to face with the wildlife without a physical barrier that is present when you photograph from a zodiac. Driving your own snowmobile puts you more in control than on an expedition ship as you have the responsibility and are helping to put yourself in position to get the shot. It is more demanding, but more rewarding.
Why should I book with you?
I have many years of experience living and working in Svalbard, and going on expeditions by snowmobile! I also work at the University Centre in Svalbard where my job entails safety training students and researchers on the Svalbard natural environment, and keeping them safe as they work in the field. I offer the smallest group sizes of any photographic expedition company, minimizing wildlife disturbance and getting you the best shots.
Spots are limited!
Secure your place today or contact me for a custom experience on +47 9503 4795.