Bardu Huskies
A Sled Dog Portrait Series
Bardu, Norway 2020
For centuries, the majestic sled dogs played a crucial role in the survival of native arctic inhabitants, and life in northern regions wouldn’t have been possible without them. Once irreplaceable for hunting and transport, they are now a relict of ancient times, serving tourists like me on simulated free time adventures. But even in this short term relationships of two, four or six hours, you are bonding with these kind creatures you fully rely on while standing at the end of such a sled during a day trip adventure.
Nevertheless, that development caused one important role: these dogs had become educators for urban civilized humans who live separated by nature and rarely experience wild nature in their ordinary lives. Traveling hundreds of kilometers with these creatures on a sled and living side by side for several days in the harsh environment has the power to refocus your role in life and nature.
So the purpose of dog sledding has changed dramatically, but the challenges, effects and magic remained. You have to fight against merciless conditions of an arctic winter that can quickly change into a white-out nightmare. Photos are rarely taken during such moments. No cheezy romance in mind. Without the power, orientation and skills of these highly adapted huskies, you wouldn’t have a chance. It’s prodigious, and my love and admiration fully went into that project. Besides the heroic archetype of these functional and focused animals, they are still just mostly childish doggos full of warm-hearted but very different characters, sometimes scared and careful, sometimes dominant and serious - but sooner or later with lots of love for attention and cuddles.
In February 2020, I spent some time at the Husky Lodge in Bardu, trying to portray these lovely creatures and their individual characters. Since I grew up with two Dachshunds, I really do love dogs and understand their behavior pretty good. So it was an incredibly joyful photography experience. Very chaotic, for sure, but by offering my patience and childishness in exchange we got some outstanding portraits.
Thank you very much
especially Lisa & Tim for hosting and enabling us all these opportunities!
If you are interested in scheduling a discovery call, hiring me, or licensing high resolution content, please reach out via email and I will reply shortly.
Contact: hello@martinlovekosi.com
Martin Lovekosi
