Kuusamo’s nature is simply breathtaking! This northern Finnish gem has captivated me on multiple trips, each one unveiling a new layer of its pristine wilderness. Whether it’s the cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, or expansive swamps, Kuusamo offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting once in spring and three times in autumn. Each season brings its own charm. In spring, the snow-covered landscapes create a magical atmosphere, while autumn paints the scenery in vibrant hues.

Kuusamo is renowned for its untouched beauty. The region’s unspoiled wilderness, seasonal diversity, and abundant wildlife make it a haven for those seeking solace in nature. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the purity of the natural world.

In a recent blog post, I shared my thoughts on Kuusamo’s stunning landscapes. I also included a mesmerising video of the misty Kitka River. In the video, Tauno Kohonen, a master of capturing foggy scenes, shares his passion for this atmospheric phenomenon. Inspired by his work, I set out in autumn 2024 with hopes of capturing similar ethereal images.

A couple of weeks before my trip, I had come across enchanting photos of the Kitka River’s mist-covered forests. The images showcased sunlight piercing through the fog, with candle-shaped spruces emerging from the mist. The scenes were nothing short of magical, and I dreamed of photographing such beauty myself.

A Quest for Foggy Mornings

Autumn mornings in Kuusamo often start cold and damp, conditions perfect for fog formation. On lucky days, the fog begins to lift as the sun rises, unveiling breathtaking vistas. One of the most popular spots for photographers is Pähkänänkallio. It is a cliff offering spectacular views of the Kitka River and its surroundings. Due to its growing popularity, the area has seen an influx of visitors. This increase has led to restrictions to protect the endangered peregrine falcons nesting there. Access is prohibited during their breeding season from April 1 to August 15.

Chasing the Perfect Sunrise

In September, the sun rises just before 7 AM. Our rental cabin was over 30 kilometers from Pähkänänkallio. Thus, we had to wake up around 4 AM to make it in time. I dislike early mornings. However, I know that the best photographs are captured during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. So, armed with determination, we set out before dawn.

The weather forecast had promised a misty morning. By evening, clouds had rolled in and rain followed during the night. Despite the absence of mist, we decided to stick to our plan. We had scouted the parking area the day before, so we were confident about the route. Yet, 15 minutes into the hike, we realized we had taken a wrong turn. Sweaty and thirsty, we retraced our steps, finally arriving at Pähkänänkallio just 15 minutes before sunrise.

I quickly set up my camera behind a large pine tree, just as the sun began warming the air. Mist rose from the tree, and droplets of water on its needles sparkled in the sunlight. The scene was magical, and I couldn’t have asked for better conditions.

Returning for More

A few days later, I returned to Pähkänänkallio, hoping to capture misty landscapes. While the sun didn’t make an appearance this time, the fog-draped scenery was still captivating.

Photography in Kuusamo requires patience and a bit of luck. Spending a week in such a remote area means being at the mercy of the weather. The long drive makes frequent visits challenging, but I’m optimistic about my next trip. I hope to witness the misty Kitka River and the awe-inspiring views from Pähkänänkallio once again.

Kuusamo remains a source of endless inspiration. Each visit strengthens my connection to its unique landscapes. I look ahead to discovering what my next adventure will bring.

This double exposure photo is gotten its inspiration from the above photo, where the mist covers the forest. This photo is part of my series Human & Nature. With these photos I want to show that we humans are part of nature.

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